Walk-in Tubs and How they ensure Safety, Comfort, and Protection

Walk-in tubs have become increasingly popular in the recent years. They are popular because they allow even those with mobility problems to care for and bathe themselves on their own. They are probably the most convenient and most luxurious of tubs available today and the bathing experience in these special tubs is simply spectacular.

What makes walk-in bathtubs so special? The most conspicuous feature of a walk-in tub is the door that can be opened when you get in and get out of the tub. These doors offer utmost safety because you do not have to climb in and out of the tub (and suffer a slip while doing so). Those who suffer from mobility problems will not have to undergo strain when stepping in and out.

Apart from the door, walk-in tubs still offer a few more safety features, including:

– Non slip surfaces on the bathroom floor to ensure less likelihood of slips when moving around the tub

– A hand-held shower which allows you to bathe yourself without having to stand up

– A built-in seat so you can comfortably relax and cleanse yourself without having to stand up

– Temperature controls and valves that are within reach both outside and while inside the bathtub

– A comfortable arm support that can offer added support while sitting and bathing

– Grab bars to provide support when moving to and fro, and around the tub

If you try to picture out what a walk-in tub looks like, it is easy to see the many benefits you could get from this special bathing aid. It is possible to install this tub in any location in your home. The system is quite tough and durable, and as long as you choose the one that best suits your needs, consider it a one-time lifetime investment.

There are certain additional features that can come with walk-in tubs. For instance, you can get one that has whirlpool Jacuzzi-type system that can provide hydrotherapy health benefits. These whirlpool gets can relieve certain pains, aches and many ailments. It is therapeutic both for the mind and the body.

The walk-in bath tub is indeed the perfect tub for the elderly and the handicapped. Go ahead and show your loved one just how much they mean to you – invest in a tub that can give them an unmatched relaxing bathing experience. This tub does not only offer safety and comfort, but it can also help them maintain their dignity and self-esteem knowing that they are still capable of taking care of themselves in this way.

Finally, investing in a walkin tub is not only good for people with special care; they can also make life easier for you too. No longer do you have to go through all the stress of helping your loved one maintain good hygienic practices. They will start to enjoy the pleasant bathing experience, and look forward to it anytime.

Everyone deserves the safety, protection, comfort and luxury that only a walk-in bathtub can provide. Get one for your home today.

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Six Concrete and Effective Ways to Accident-Proof Your Bathroom

 

There are thousands of people every year, majority of which are seniors aged 65 and older, who die because of falls and accidents in the home. Most of these accidents occur in the bathroom where floors are oftentimes slippery and hard surfaces and corners are aplenty. Accidents in the bathroom are not just major concerns for homes with elderly members,but also for those with children, individuals with disabilities, and those who have mobility problems.

Fortunately, there are proven and effective ways to make your bathroom safer and accident-proof. These preventive measures can minimize the chances of slips and falls in the bathroom. Among these effective fall-proof methods are as follows:

Use of non-slip Bath Mats

Many falls occur when people get in and out of the bathtub or shower, and during times when users adjust valves or operate temperature controls. To avoid these problems, make sure to place non-slip mats of strips in the bathtub or shower and just outside it. If your bathroom has tiled surfaces, think of redesigning to install textured surfaces that prevent slips.

Ensuring Adequate Lighting

Many accidents in the bathroom happen at night are mainly caused by improper lighting. Make sure that your switch is easily accessible in the dark. You should also consider installing a night light, especially if some members in your household frequently use the bathroom at night. This way, they do not have to grope around to look for the switch.

Placement of a Seat in the Shower

A small, sturdy chair can make a difference in the shower. You can consider getting one of those walkin bathtubs with built-in seats if you have the budget. Or you can go for a portable bench that is just the right size to fit into your shower area. Padded seats offer more comfort.

Installation of Handrails and Grab Bars

Grab bars and handrails are great ways to minimize accidents in the bathroom. They provide extra support and can be conveniently installed in strategic areas like the toilet, the side walls of the tub, and the entrance. Make sure they are within easy reach.

De-clutter and Keeping the Bathroom Clear

Falls can be caused by tripping on items lying on the bathroom floor. Make sure to keep the floor clean of practically everything – make sure there is a place to put everything in. You may also want to avoid those bulky, raised bath rugs as users can easily trip on them.

Installation of Liquid Soap Dispenser

Dispensers held in place can be quite useful, especially if you have elderly or infirmed members in the household. With dispensers, they no longer have to go through all the trouble of reaching the soap in their trays. Remember too, that soaps are slippery on its own – anyone can easily slip on it if it accidentally gets dropped on the bathroom floor.

It is very important for you to be vigilant about keeping your bathroom accident-proof. It doesn’t take much to redesign the bathroom – and every bit you spend in doing so is an investment worth spending on.

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Handicapped Bathroom Safety Checklist

If you are faced with certain unfortunate situations which have led one of the members of your household to become handicapped or differently-abled, one of the things you will need to arrange is for them to safely use the bathroom. The hazards that bathrooms present as well as the inability caused by being immobile are just two of the reasons why you will have to reconfigure your bathroom to suit the situation. Here is a safety checklist that you can use to see whether or not you have exhausted all measures to keep your bathroom safe for the infirmed member of your home:

1. Are the surfaces of the bathroom equipped with non-slip materials?

Non-slip surfaces must be properly installed on floors and surfaces to prevent slips when the area is wet. Make sure non-slip mats are in place in the toilet, the tub and in the entrance.

2. Is there a seat or a flat edge in the tub where he/she can sit while bathing?

Make sure there is a comfortable chair in place inside the shower or tub to ensure maximum comfort when bathing.

Most walk-in bathtubs are equipped with a built-in seat, consider getting one.

3. Can he/she easily move from the wheelchair to the tub or toilet and vice versa?

To be able to make a 180-degree turn, a wheelchair needs at least 5 feet (60 inches) of space. If space is a constraint, consider allotting a T-shaped turning space located strategically under lavatories and fixtures. Make sure there is enough clearance for the knees and the feet.

4. Can he/she reach the water controls of the tub from the outside?

Controls must be easily accessible from the outside of the tub.

5. Are there grab bars and handrails installed in the important areas?

Grab bars and handrails provide additional support. Make sure to install them in strategic areas.

6. Can he/she reach the soap, the shampoo and the towel while they sit in the tub?

The handicapped must be provided with everything they need within reach. Consider a hanging rack to place toiletries.

7. Is there a handheld shower that he/she can use?

A hand-held shower can allow him to bathe on his own, so make sure to have one installed.

8. Is the toilet height adequate enough for him to be comfortable enough in?

You can consider getting a raised toilet seat that can raise the seat height to that of the wheelchair seat.

9. Is the washbasin low enough and does it have enough space below to accommodate him?

The wash basin must be wall-mounted and must be at least 34 inches in height to allow convenient access. Long, lever-type faucet handles and fixtures are more ideal than knob-type.

10. Is the door big enough to accommodate him/her?

Most bathroom doors are only about 32 inches in length. To be able to accommodate an entire wheelchair, the opening has to be at least 36 inches wide. Consider installing a sliding or pocket door to replace your existing doorway.

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Issues With Walk-in Bathtubs You Have to be Aware Of Today

Finally decided that a walk-in bathtub is just what you need in your bathroom? Wise decision, indeed! Walk-in bathtubs are simply the best kind of tubs available today. They can transform any regular bathroom into a luxurious and handicap-friendly bathroom.

However, with all the available brands and models in the market today, do note that not all of the tubs of this type have been created equal. There are many models that may have issues and design flaws you have to be aware about, and avoid accordingly. Here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind before buying a walk-in tub for your home:

1. The Bath-Tub Size

In the case of tubs, bigger does not always mean better. You should not decide by buying the biggest model you ever see. Remember that you have certain space considerations to think about. First, you will need to make sure it fits well not only in your bathroom but also through the door that leads to it. Another thing to consider is that the bigger the tub, the more water you need to use – which leads to certain economic considerations. Furthermore, the more water you need to fill, the more waiting time it requires. Remember that with walk-in models, you will have to wait while inside for the water to fill and to drain before you can step out. In terms of size, go for a compact size yet still big enough to meet the needs of its users.

2. The Step-in Height

Most of the walk in tubs available in the market today has step-in heights that reach up to 7 inches, which is a level still quite high for industry standard. Note that this tub has been specifically designed to have doors so that people with limited mobility can step in and out of the tub with convenience and with as little strength possible. A step-in height that is as high as 7 inches is still quite high, which means that they still have to muster a bit of strength to be able to step in and out. Make sure to buy a walkin tub that has the lowest possible step-in height – say 3 inches or less is ideal.

3. The Tile Flange

What is the tile flange you ask? A tile flange is simply the lip that is designed to extend at the top of the tub by about an inch or two. This allows the drywall to be protected from deteriorating and getting wet. In most cases, a tile flange is necessary but not all walk-in tub models have one in place.

Walk-in bathtubs spell luxury for all of us, and comfort and safety for the elderly and the infirmed members of the family. It is the perfect choice if you want to retain the dignity and independence of the people you love. But whenever you are making a choice, carefully consider three of these design issues and choose accordingly.

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Top Design Layouts and Ergonomics for a Senior or Disabled Bathroom

Most bathroom designs, whether traditional or modern, are suited for the mobile, the young and the healthy. It is much more challenging to design a bathroom that can suit the needs of the elderly. But although it is challenging, with careful consideration of their needs and a bit of planning, it is not an impossible task to do.

The Size of the Bathroom

The first important factor to consider in bathroom planning for the elderly and invalid is the size. This is much more so if you are designing for an individual who is immobile, or is in a wheelchair. Try not to restrict the layout with the traditional shower boxes you see – increase the size as you can and customize it to ensure comfort and stability when use. Do not hesitate to build ledges or seats in strategic areas, or line the sides with grab handles or bars – prioritize safety and comfort while not compromising aesthetics.

Consider a No-Step Shower

Your shower area must be designed to ensure level entry. You can do some remodelling or get some of those flooring systems that can raise the floor level for water to properly drain inside the shower. This will allow people in wheelchairs to simply roll into or slide into the shower without difficulty. If you are faced with space constraints, you can even consider turning the entire bathroom into a wet room so they can bath with as much space possible, and with their caregiver or assistant with them.

Invest in a Walk-in Bathtub

Let’s face it: a conventional bath tub will impose too much pressure on an elderly, so much more for a handicapped. Consider investing in a walk-in bathtub. These tubs are equipped with access doors to allow users to walk into it, and not have to climb over on one side. There are a wide range of walk-in tubs available to suit every need. There are tall compact baths, while there are also conventional looking long length tubs. These tubs oftentimes feature swivel chair lifts or power seats that can lower or lift the user with ease. These tubs are significant investments as they can range from at least a thousand to a few thousand dollars. But they ensure utmost safety, convenience and comfort for the elderly and the disabled at home – and for you, as well.

The Toilets

Another important aspect that you should consider is the toilet. Modern disabled toilets now feature wall-hung toilets, which allow adjustment of the height of the pan based on individual needs. You can also consider getting toilet frames that allow additional support.

Fixtures, Vanities and Grab Rails

Inspect your fixtures and see whether they can be easily and intuitively used with ease by the senior or the handicapped in your home. Make sure to mount some grab rails in the toilet and in the bathtub to ensure they have every support they need. Never forget to put some more non-slip mats in place to make sure they don’t succumb to slips as they move around the bathroom.

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The Many Benefits of a Walk-in Bathtub

Walk-in bathtubs have become very popular in the recent years because of the safety and protection they provide. But considering how much they cost, are walkin tubs a worthwhile investment for your home and your family? To help you find out for yourself, here are some of the many benefits of this special kind of tub.

Standard Features of Walk-in Tubs

Walk-in tubs come in a wide range of kinds and sizes. They do have certain common standard features including safety bars, a high-quality built-in tub seat, shower head with easy controls, a sealed door that conveniently opens and closes, and non-slip surface. Doors are water-sealed and usually have safety locks to ensure that it won’t suddenly open while you bathe. Seats are especially contoured to offer maximum comfort and safety. There are models with power seats for use of individuals on wheelchairs.

Extra Features of Walk-in Tubs

There are more technologically-advanced walk-in tubs including hydrotherapy and whirlpool jet systems, heater with thermostat control, aromatherapy, and even chromatherapy lighting system. These additional features aim to provide you with a more relaxing and pleasant bathing experience. Some tubs are equipped with quick draining and filling systems so you don’t have to wait that long for the tub for fill up and drain.

The Benefits of a Walk-in Tub

Most of the aforementioned features are not available in conventional tubs. As such, they offer superior comfort and protection not available in ordinary tubs you may currently have at home.

Walk-in tubs are capable of providing more benefits, especially for the elderly, individuals with limited mobility and those with special needs. They enable them to bathe without needing assistance, which translates to increased privacy, dignity and independence on their part. These tubs also give them a luxurious and pleasant bathing experience that you no longer have to drag them or force them to bathe – they simply will start looking forward to the experience.

The sturdy, non-slip surfaces that are featured in these tubs also allow users to bathe with the least risk involved – your loved one can go about their business without the danger of slips, falls and getting injured. The swinging doors allow one to step into the tub without having to climb over, while the built-in seats allow users to bathe with comfort and ease.

Not only are walkin tubs safe, comfortable and relaxing, but they also have unmatched therapeutic benefits. A good soak into a warm tub can ease muscle tension, relieve away pain and improve circulation. You surely have heard of the wonderful health benefits of hydrotherapy. Many walk-in bathtubs feature hydrotherapy jets that can effectively rid the body of toxins, treat inflammation, reduce pain, improve sleep, increase immunity, and promote better overall health. Hydrotherapy is even known to calm the nervous system down, improve moods, lighten up the spirit and make one feel better about themselves.

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Hydrotherapy Benefits for Walk In Tubs

You surely have heard of the many important health benefits of hydrotherapy. It is very well known as a safe, natural, and inexpensive cure for many pains and ailments. Hydrotherapy can help replenish lost water, as well as cleanse and detoxify the body. In fact, it is so beneficial that medical experts recommend it for the elderly, for those with arthritis, those with limited mobility and the differently-abled.

The science of hydrotherapy is carefully integrated in today’s walk in bathtubs through hydrotherapy jets. Although originally designed to minimize risks and accidents frequently caused by bathing, walk in bathtubs can offer so much more. These convenient baths usually feature a door at one side for convenient entry; grab bars, a comfortable chair and anti-slip surfaces.

Hydrotherapy jets installed converts an ordinary walk-in tub into a whirlpool bath that can provide soothing action all throughout the body. Temperature-control settings are in place to ensure utmost comfort. The whirlpool soak provides a wide range of physical as well as psychological benefits for everyone. They relax stressed body parts, soothe aching and tired muscles, improve mobility or motion range, relieve chronic pains such as arthritis, and ease pressure imposed on the joints. The calming bath can also increase blood circulation, improve respiration, reduce high blood pressure, clear up congested air passages, and strengthen the immune system in general. Psychologically, this hydrotherapy bath also relieves depressive moods, anxiety and mental stress, and also improves the quality of sleep for those with insomnia. Among other desired effects include skin hydration, enhancement of digestion, and proper absorption of nutrients from food we eat.

Hydrotherapy through walk-in bathtubs is particularly most useful with the elderly, the differently-abled and individuals with mobility problems. Although it is proven to work relieve their pains away, it is recommended to consult the physician for proper approval and instructions. The air jets installed in these special tubs can be set to low, medium or high to provide a wide range of hydrotherapy effects. When set, it can provide a good head to toe massage.

With continued use as instructed by your medical professional, hydrotherapy through walk-in tubs can provide relief from a wide range of discomfort, and treat various illnesses. They can provide comfort to the sick, the elderly, and the disabled – not to mention how they would enjoy it so much that bathing does not have to be a problem (for themselves and for the members of the household).

Walk in tubs do not only protect you and the rest of the family from slips, falls and accidents in the bathroom. It does not only provide a luxurious bathing experience. But it also offers the bountiful health benefits of hydrotherapy. A walk in bath tub is a sensible investment for the bathroom, most especially if you live with loved ones who are old or mobile-challenged. We all deserve all the wondrous benefits of walk in tubs; think about getting one for your home today.

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How to Make Your Existing Bathroom Handicap Friendly

If you are faced with major challenges in the family, such as disability, you will have to do a lot of adjustments. One very important adjustment you have to make is to make your existing bathroom handicap friendly.  We all know that most fixtures and bathroom designs have been made especially for people who are able and mobile. So how do you modify your existing bathroom for it to be convenient not only for able, but disabled people as well?

The Bath Room Entrance

The first thing you would have to apply changes to will be your bathroom. If your door is less than 38 inches, it would surely be difficult for a regular wheelchair to go through. A door that is 38 inches will let a wheelchair through, but it might be difficult for the person to open and close as well. You can consider a sliding door or a D-shaped lever or handle, instead of the regular knobs we have. You can also opt to remove the door completely and design other ways for privacy.

The Flooring of the Bathroom

You will need enough space in the bathroom for the person in wheelchair to manoeuvre and move around. A 1.5 meter diameter space is ideal for a complete turn- around. Make sure to clear the floor of clutter – no hampers, plants, trash bins, not even rugs. Invest in anti-slip or textured tiles to prevent slips and other accidents.

The Toilet

Part of the reason why your bathroom should be clutter-free is that your handicapped loved one must be able to easily access the toilet. It is a challenge for them to move from the wheelchair to the toilet seat and vice versa. To make it easier for them, you can consider buying a raised toilet seat, or buy a toilet safety frame, which can attach to the toilet. They are available in different designs and weight capacities, so make sure to choose one that best suits the needs of the one using it.

The Bathroom Sink

You will have to move your bathroom sink countertop lower to about 30 inches from the floor so washing the hands can be possible even in a wheelchair. You will also have to remove any under-sink cabinets so there is enough space for the knees and the footrest of the wheelchair.

The Bath Tub

Another challenging aspect about making a bathroom handicapped-friendly is the bath tub or shower. It is quite difficult to turn your bath or shower area accessible for them. You can consider getting a transfer shower bench or a shower seat. Better yet, it is best if you can invest in a walk-in bathtub that is designed especially for people with mobility problems. These walk-in tubs have doors and seats that make bathing more convenient for people in wheelchairs. They are also equipped with grab bars and anti-slip surfaces for maximum protection.

You will need to invest some amount in remodeling your bathroom to make it handicapped friendly. But it is always a worthwhile investment as it means utmost protection and comfort of your loved one.

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Top Five Bathroom Safety Products for Seniors

Slips, falls, and accidents can happen in any bathroom. It is much so even if the household members are mobile, agile and healthy. Imagine how the case can be for people in wheelchairs and those with disabilities. We always strive to have a bathroom that is accident-free, but we should exercise more vigilance if we have a disabled person as part of the household. It is important that we design our bathrooms and equip them to minimize any chance of accidents and prioritize comfort of our loved one in wheelchair. Here are five bathroom safety products that are must-haves in disabled-friendly bathrooms:

1. Safety Rails and Grab Bars

These are the rails and bars we usually see in handicapped toilet stalls. Grab bars allow those in wheelchairs to pull themselves up onto the toilet seat, and back again without staining their bodies too much. They also provide those with mobility problems the added stability they need while in the bathroom. Grab bars come in straight or wrap-around models, there are also those that are coated for a more comfortable feel.

2. Shower and Bath Seats

Seats and tools placed in the bath and shower will make it easy especially for the handicapped to comfortably bath or shower. The seats have been designed to fit into most showers and tubs, and are stable and sturdy enough to support and accommodate even the heaviest individuals. There are expensive bath seats that have added features, including arm rests, foot rests, and special surfaces.

3. Walk In Bath Tub

Walk in bathtubs are important investments for those households who have members with mobility problems. These special tubs allow them to enter and step out of the bathtub without difficulties. These tubs are usually equipped with non-slip surfaces, very secure doors, and some even have benches to comfortably sit on. There are a wide range of styles and designs to choose from depending on one’s needs and preferences.

4. Raised Type Toilet Seats

The regular toilet seats we have in our bathrooms are not very wheelchair-friendly. It is usually very difficult, if not impossible, for people in wheelchairs to lower themselves into. However, there are such things as raised seats or commode chairs that can allow them to sit down and stand again conveniently, without staining their legs and back. There are raised toilet seats that offer extra comfort, such as arm rests and padding.

5. Bath Mats

Slips and slip-related accidents are very common in the bathroom. The risk is multiplied for those who are on wheelchairs. Bathrooms for people in wheelchairs must always be equipped with a good, anti-slip bath mat for extra protection. Of course, make sure that the bath mats don’t impede the proper draining of water. It must also be resistant to mildew and moulds.

These are just five of the most important safety products that should be made available in bathrooms for people in wheelchairs and those with mobility problems. These five products are great investment because they can keep our loved ones safe, comfortable and well-protected, even without your constant watch.

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