As people approach “senior” status in life, it is very normal to analyze daily routines that can be simplified and made safer. As people progress in age, most decide they would like to stay in the home they’ve created rather than move to an assisted living facility. One of these routines that many do not think about until they get older is personal hygiene and bathing.
Bath tubs can be treacherous for aging adults who find mobility in slipping with time. For older adults, losing the ability to bathe is associated with dangers such as falls, fracturing bones, and even being admitted to a nursing home. It is important to take preventative measures to help to prevent bathing disability before it occurs. The best solution when trying to plan for safe bathing options is a walk-in tub. Luckily, there are many choices for walk-in tubs if you know where to start.
Here are a few of the best walk-in tubs on the market:
Ameriglide Sanctuary Walk-In
Best For: Shower Enclosure Options
Price Range: $2,500-$4,800
Materials/Details: Durable gel coat fiberglass, standard features (inward swinging door), safe 17″ seat, 6″ mid-range step. Upgrades optional.
Description: This is the most popular model that Ameriglide offers. This option is ideal for those looking for a safe and comfortable bathing experience. It is designed to fit a standard bathtub space. But you can find it in four very similar sizes to accommodate slightly different space needs. All of the sizes are the same price, so seniors may choose whichever is the best fit for their space and budget.
Hydro Demensions Series 3555
Best For: Affordable Therapy
Price Range: $8,000-$12,000
Materials/Details: Gelcoat over fiberglass, inward swinging doors, anti-slip floor, grab bars, chromotherapy, air jets, hydrotherapy.
Description: Measuring 45″ x 26″ x 39.5”, this walk-in tub fits a standard bathtub space. An inward swinging door helps keep the tub from intruding too much on the rest of the bathroom. This model can be purchased as a soaker model for bathing only, or it can be upgraded with many different therapeutic features.
American Standard Value Series Soaking Tub
Best For: Transparent Pricing
Price Range: $6,185-$9,645 (pre-installation)
Materials/Details: Gelcoat, slide-in tub, anti-slip floor, grab bars, shower wand.
Description: Limited-mobility bathers, such as those in wheelchairs, will find this 32” x 52” x 40” tub a convenient choice. As a slide-in soaking tub, this model is ideal for a warm, safe, no-frills bathing experience. Built with an outward swinging, L-shaped door that allows for direct access to the seat, the soaking tub accommodates those who are unable to maneuver around a door and tub wall to get to the seat.
Ella’s Bubbles Tub4Two
Best For: Two-Person Walk-In
Price Range: $5,348-$5,460
Materials/Details: Acrylic, slide-in tub, outward swinging door, tempered glass, stainless steel, anti-slip floor, grab bar.
Description: The Tub4Two Walk-In Tub features two seats that face each other. It is a perfect option for couples. With many therapy choices available, this tub can help consumers with their aches and pains. The Tub4Two measures 31.75″ x 60″ x 42″. Its attractive stainless steel and tempered glass door swings outward.
Kohler Belay Walk-In Tub
Best For: Design Options
Price Range: In-Home Quote
Materials/Details: Gelcoat fiberglass, inward swinging, anti-slip flooring, grab bars, low 3” step, hydrotherapy, heated seat.
Description: The Belay Walk-In Bath has variable proportions: between 52-60” long and between 28-32” wide. Like many walk-in tubs, this one has an inward swinging door and a safe, ADA compliant 17” tall seat. This tub is remarkable for its many comfort-enhancing features such as heaters and air and water jets that come standard.