When our bodies become weak in old age, every simple thing makes us feel difficult, like climbing into the shower. This can be due to ageing, injury, illness, or arthritis problems. In that situation, the process of taking a bath can quickly become challenging, painful, or dangerous. Hence, tubs for seniors are designed to make safer, more comfortable bathing solutions. It provides convenience, accessibility, and therapeutic benefits. Choosing the right bathtub combines evaluating safety features, therapeutic options, and cost.
In this complete guide, we’ll highlight the features and benefits of bathtubs for seniors that help you to choose the right one for your loved one:
What is a bathtub for seniors?
A bathtub for seniors is just a bathtub like any other bathtub for a shower but especially designed for seniors to keep in mind their elderly needs to make their bathing safer and more convenient to prevent mobility challenges. These tubs often involve crucial safety and comfort features, including non-slip flooring, grab bars, and comfortable seating. Even a few models feature water jets and handheld showers to improve relaxation and comfort.
Benefits of Senior Tubs
There are numerous benefits of senior tubs, from comforting baths to preventing falls. Below are the key benefits of having a tub for seniors:
- Tackling Limited Mobility
If your elderly have mobility issues, tubs can be a game-changer. With their low-entry design, old adults can easily access the tub without the strain of climbing over. Leading manufacturers cater models with outward swinging doors and larger-sized options to accommodate all users smoothly.
- Hydrotherapy
These tubs often offer hydrotherapy options, such as air and water jets involving therapeutic benefits. Hydrotherapy is potent to ease aches and pains, improve circulation, and give relief from conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. The warm water and massage jets work in harmony to soothe muscles and promote endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
- Showers Versatility
Tubs for seniors do not only provide a soaking facility but also showers function. They’re equipped with extendable shower heads offering flexibility to take in a seated or standing position. Serving several needs and preferences and facilitating you to enjoy a hot shower while resting your legs.
- Avoiding Falls
One of the key benefits of tubs for seniors is to contribute to preventing falls. In older age, falling in the bathroom while bathing or using the toilet is a common incident but these types of tubs will prevent falls and avoid bone or joint fractures. They are designed with safety and health concerns to reduce the risk of such accidents.
Critical Features of Tubs for Seniors
When choosing a tub for your family member, it is crucial to prioritize features that meet your unique needs and circumstances. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Low Entry Steps: These tubs feature low entry to serve safer steps in and out of the tub without lifting a leg as high.
- Comfortable Seat: In-designed seat is both sturdy and comfortable, especially for those who need to sit while bathing. Some models even contain adjustable seats or contoured designs for added comfort while bathing.
- Non-Slip Flooring: They feature non-slip flooring to significantly reduce the risk of falling, especially when the tub is wet. Ensure that the tub has a textured surface for added grip.
- Grab Bars: These bars provide extra support when stepping in or out of the tub.
- Water Jet Options: If your family member is interested in hydrotherapy, choose a tub with built-in water jets. These jets can aid relax sore muscles and provide a relaxing massage. However, these features may charge the extra cost of the tub.
