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4 Reasons a Walk-in Tub Might Be Right for You

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As you grow older, the last thing you want to think about is the exhaustion of going through home renovations. However, one renovation that can make a big difference in your quality of life is the installation of a walk-in tub.

Each year, 3 million older people are treated for injuries that occur during falls. Oftentimes, these injuries can be the impetus for making more intense lifestyle changes, like adding home health care assistance or relocating to an assisted living location.

While a walk-in tub can’t solve all your ailments, it can be convenient, practical and safe for older people (and it can have some other health benefits too).

We’ve outlined a few reasons why an upgrade to a walk-in tub might be a good option for this stage in your life.

1.  Immersing Yourself in the Healing Effects of Hydrotherapy

Soaking in warm water can be a restorative treatment that requires no medication. Warm water can help to alleviate aches and pains and can encourage healing for burns and ulcers.

In addition, hydrotherapy can lessen the impact of pain from chronic conditions like arthritis and rheumatism. Psychologists suggest that taking baths can reduce stress levels, elevate your mood and help you to sleep better, all of which can be extraordinarily refreshing and restorative.

2. Putting Fall Prevention Measures in Place

Most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, and these falls can lead to additional health issues. Falls can be caused by a number of concerns, including weak or brittle bones, abnormalities in blood pressure and the side effects of medications.

After a fall, you may feel afraid to engage in some of the activities you previously enjoyed, like bathing, walking in unfamiliar locations and participating in the exercise, which can weaken your body further. A walk-in tub can reduce the risk of a fall getting in or out of the tub or shower, which then can help you avoid some of the other issues that come along with falls.

In addition, walk-in tubs typically include a safe and secure built-in bench, which can aid in making safe transfers from wheelchairs or other assistive devices.

3. Taking Advantage of Cost Savings over the Long Run

You may think you want a walk-in tub eventually, but feel a bit wary of the cost involved in the replacement. Many people think they can piecemeal their bathroom renovations by adding rails for safety, changing shower flooring to make it less slippery, adding safety seats or taking other partial measures.

However, if you’re considering a stop-gap measure to update your bathroom’s safety, it may be equally as affordable to move forward with a walk-in option.

Because the latest innovations in walk-in tub design make them attractive and accessible for all ages (many even have massaging Jacuzzi jets and other advanced features), your bath space will still look stylish and comfortable, which can be beneficial if you’re planning to sell your home in the future.

4. Making Small Changes to Ensure Better Physical and Mental Health

It can be hard to face the realities of aging. However, it can also be hard to allow yourself to lose some of your independence just because you’re not quite as physically capable as you once were.

Many people start avoiding baths and showers altogether, as part of their denial of the aging process. However, this practice can lead to skin breakdown, infections, poor mental outlook because of decreased hygiene and lower self-confidence.

One of our clients experienced this very thing. Because he had trouble navigating the high walls of his home’s original tub, he’d begun to avoid the bathroom and opt for only occasional sponge baths. As a result, he developed several sores and an infection that became quite serious, to the point of requiring hospitalization.

With a bathroom upgrade to a walk-in tub, this client was able to regain some of his lost quality of life, while soaking and rejuvenating in an accessible tub that met his needs.

Like this client, if you choose to equip yourself with this restorative option, you’re not giving in to the aging process; you’re giving yourself a new lease on life.

If you think it might be time to consider a bathroom upgrade to a walk-in tub, our team provides free consultations to determine which product will best upgrade your bathroom and meet your health and hygiene needs. If you’re interested, contact USA Bath today and let us help you improve your bath space and your life.