Did you know? Countless bathtub accidents happen every year, and most of these occur when people are getting into or out of their tub – and this statistic includes young, agile people.

For people with mobility issues, climbing in and out of a tub can be especially difficult or even downright dangerous. Since bathroom surfaces are often wet and slippery, anyone who has a loved one with weak muscles, low mobility or limb injury must consider ways to make the bathroom safer for daily use.

The Walk-in Solution

walking out of walk-in tub

If you or a loved one has a hard time getting over that tub wall, you may want to consider a walk-in tub, which is a bathtub with a low cutout and a water-sealed door.

Walk-in bathtubs are a smart and convenient solution, allowing users to step over the low wall of the specialized tub instead of climbing over a high tub wall.

Step-in Height

The height of this part of the tub is, on average, about 3 inches, as opposed to the average height of standard bathtub walls, which can be anywhere from 14″ to 30″. This significant difference makes bathing infinitely easier for anyone who may struggle with the higher walls – and, in fact, is a pleasant change even for fully mobile individuals.

Although the average height of the low wall is about 3″ as mentioned previously, some walk-in tubs may have a step-in height of up to 6 inches (which is often too high for individuals with mobility issues), or as low as 2 inches. Because of this notable range of step-in heights available, as well as the fact that this is generally the most important feature to consider when installing a walk-in tub for an elderly or disabled individual, be sure to check the exact measurements before making your final decision.

Walk-in Tub Features

Walk-in tubs are also equipped with useful features such as a sitting area and handrails, which are crucial for users with less stability and mobility. Other special features include a handheld shower head for easier washing, and even deluxe options such as whirlpool jets and therapeutic air outlets, all of which promote independence and an enjoyable, safe bathing experience even for those who have compromised mobility levels.

 

Note: If such renovations are too costly for your current budget, or you’d like to try something more cost-effective first, there are other ways to ease the climb into the tub. These methods include transfer shower benches as well as bath rails or grab bars. Another option is a bath lift, which also provides the benefit of easing the user into the water without them needing to exert themselves.

 

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What have you done to improve the safety of your bathroom for yourself or a loved one? Share your experiences in the comments below!