For independent seniors, a few simple home modifications geared toward safety and comfort can make all the difference. In honor of National Bath Safety Month, we would like to tell you about improving the quality and safety of a bathroom by installing a walk-in tub. This type of tub offers many advantages over a typical bathtub or shower stall. Here’s a look at some of the benefits of a walk-in tub for seniors seeking greater safety and independence.
The walk-in design makes it much more comfortable and convenient for individuals with mobility issues to bathe safely. With a typical tub, one has to step inside of it, which can be a real challenge for many. The walk-in style has a door that can be easily opened, and a person does not need to step or lift their legs to enter. For seniors seeking more convenience in the bathroom, this type of tub is ideal. It reduces the risk of injury while seeking a relaxing bath. 
Another great benefit of a walk-in tub is the hydrotherapy it provides. This soothes the muscles and aids in stress relief. It’s a great way to relax and unwind with a bath while knowing that it’s both safe and comfortable. There are a variety of health issues with physical symptoms that can be soothed by hydrotherapy, including arthritis, diabetes, and more. A warm bath can provide both physical and emotional relief from the pain and discomfort these types of conditions cause.
For aging individuals and their loved ones, a safer environment in the home becomes an important focus. There are so many ways to make a home safe for seniors, and especially the bathroom. A walk-in tub reduces the risk of slipping or falling when entering or exiting the bath. They also come with grab bars that make moving in and out of the tub easier. Falls are common among senior citizens, and they can cause many other health issues and complications. Take the worry out of bathing with a safer bathroom. A walk-in tub is a smart, simple way to transform the bathroom and give seniors and their families peace of mind.
When seeking practical modifications to allow a senior to maintain their current level of independence and stay in their home, walk-in tubs are an affordable option. This is especially true when you consider the real value that they provide to individuals with mobility issues. It’s an affordable way to upgrade the bathroom and create a comfortable space.
Finally, walk-in tubs aren’t only beneficial and necessary for senior citizens. A walk-in tub provides all of the same benefits to the whole family. This includes households with children , and those with family members who have mobility issues, illnesses, or disabilities. For seniors who live in a home with loved ones of various ages, it still makes sense to install this type of bathtub for the enhanced safety and comfort. Everyone can benefit from the hydrotherapy that a walk-in tub can offer.
If you’re interested in converting to a walk-in tub or making other changes to your bathroom, contact us today. We can talk about your bathroom remodeling needs and discuss your options.
Thousands of people are injured in bathroom accidents each year. Fortunately, many of these incidents are preventable if homeowners follow a few simple safety tips. January is National Bath Safety Month, and a good time for homeowners to look for tips on how to design a safe bathroom. Below are some helpful suggestions on how to prevent bathtub injuries and avoid slipping while taking a bath or shower.
Installing specific accessories can make your bathroom significantly safer than it is currently. For example, grab bars are an excellent addition to any bathroom. Many falls occur simply because there is no practical area to grab onto if you lose your balance or trip. Grab bars can be installed on the sides of the shower, at its entrance, or in both areas, depending on the design of your bathroom. Such bars also make it easier to navigate the shower overall, as they provide a place to grip when stepping in and out of the bath.
Many people have quickly entered a shower or bathtub assuming that the water is at the appropriate temperature, only to discover it is much hotter than desired. This sudden exposure to hot water may cause you to become injured by a burn or by falling if you attempt to hastily exit the shower. Therefore, make sure you have a way to control water temperature or check to make it is a desirable temperature before entering. There are devices available that monitor and control the temperature of the water and prevents it from exceeding a certain degree, so this may be an option for you if you frequently have water temperature concerns.
If your shower has doors, glass fixtures, or similar components, you should make an effort to cover sharp edges in order to avoid cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. This is an important aspect of bath safety, as clothing is not present to provide extra protection when bathing or showering. In addition to covering sharp edges in showers and baths, be sure to cover them on counters as well.
If you or other residents of your home are elderly, you should consider the addition of accessories such as a shower seat and a hand-held shower head. Such devices make it easier and safer for seniors to bathe or shower, particularly those who have balance issues or take medications that may cause dizziness or an unsteady gait.
In certain cases, it may be necessary to plan a remodeling project in order to design a safe bath for you and your loved ones. When remodeling, your contractor can create a floor plan with safety in mind. This way, you can avoid slipping, control water temperature, cover sharp edges, and have the contractor install accessories such as grab bars and seats during the bathroom remodeling process.
Although it is not always possible to completely prevent every minor accident, designing a safe bathroom is a great place to begin. Contact Columbus Bath Design to receive a free estimate and talk to a professional about making your bathroom a safer place.
Contact Columbus Bath Design today to start designing your dream bathroom. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
