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The Advantages of Walk-In Tubs

In addition to safety considerations, there are other advantages to adding a walk-in tub to any home. Explore the benefits of walk-in tubs.

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Michael Peck
Featured Expert

Michael Peck

Vice President of Installation, Leaf Home Safety Solutions

Michael Peck is the Vice President of Installation for Leaf Home Safety Solutions. Prior to working at Leaf Home Safety Solutions, Michael worked as the National Director of Installation Services for LeafFilter Gutter Protection, another Leaf Home brand. Mike is also a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a designation established by the National Association of Home Builders. He strongly believes in Leaf Home Safety Solution’s commitment to the personal safety and wellbeing of homeowners, or their loved ones, looking to age in place. Mike understands and seeks to find solutions to the unique challenges that can make accessibility difficult while maintaining independence in the home.

Go to Expert Input

As more people choose to age in place, universal design—the idea of creating accessible homes—has gained importance. One way to enhance accessibility, comfort, and safety is through the installation of a walk-in tub. To highlight the advantages of walk-in tubs, we interviewed Michael Peck of Leaf Home Safety Solutions for expert insights.

What Are the Advantages of Walk-In Tubs?

The advantages of walk-in tubs are clear. In addition to the safety considerations, other perks show why a walk-in tub is a good idea for any home. They are especially beneficial for households with those with chronic conditions or simply the aches and pains of aging.

Let’s look at the advantages of walk-in tubs:

1. Designed With Safety in Mind

Three million older adults are treated in emergency departments for falls each year, and many of those happen in the bathroom. Handrails, a textured seat and floor, anti-scald protection, quick-fill and quick-drain options, and detachable spray spouts are just a few of the safety features that come standard in most walk-in tubs. The low threshold for entry and the grab bars that allow a person to lower themselves carefully into the tub are other examples of safety first.

2. Boosts the Value of Your Home

Accessible features can add value to your home, especially if that home is in a retirement community. Walk-in tubs are a staple of an accessible home that allows several generations to live under one roof, which can be appealing to buyers of all ages.

3. Ample Space for Those Who Need a Bit More

Walk-in tubs come in several models designed to accommodate those who have certain needs. For instance, bariatric tubs can hold the weight of a larger person, and some tubs can handle wheelchair access. Those who have trouble sitting upright can enjoy the benefits of a tub that allows them to recline in the water.

4. Hydrotherapy Benefits

There’s no doubt a jetted tub feels luxurious. But the benefits of hydrotherapy are clear. Appropriately placed jets can help relieve the aches and pains of chronic diseases, relax the muscles, increase blood flow, and promote overall wellness through relaxation and mental health benefits.

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5. Often Fits Into Your Existing Tub Space

Despite offering many benefits over a standard tub, most walk-in tubs are compact. They often fit neatly into the space of a typical bathtub. Some models even take up less room. This extra space can be used for shelves or other features around the tub.

6. You Don’t Have to Sacrifice Your Shower

Walk-in tubs are also available as tub/shower combos, which work well for multi-generational households. Since they fit where your existing tub is, the shower can remain intact. Adding a shower curtain makes it easy for everyone to use the space in their preferred way.

7. Better Hygiene for Those With Mobility Challenges

Limited mobility can make daily tasks like bathing or showering difficult. Walk-in tubs offer a safe solution for those who can’t stand in the shower or struggle to use a standard tub. They provide a more accessible way to maintain hygiene with ease.

8. Potentially Lower Hospital Bills

Walk-in tubs include safety features that reduce the risk of falls and accidents. The hydrotherapy benefits and improved hygiene can also lead to better overall health. These advantages may result in fewer doctor visits and lower medical bills over time.

9. Potential Insurance Coverage

Though most private insurance will not cover walk-in tubs, Medicare Advantage – run by private insurance companies and regulated by Medicare — offers extra coverage options that might include home modifications or home safety devices. Before buying a walk-in tub, look into all your insurance and payment options for home accessibility projects to determine if you can get help paying for it.

Professional Walk-In Tub Installation

Now that you have explored the advantages of walk-in tubs, it’s important to know that they require professional installation by a qualified contractor. This is a large project that requires someone who is licensed and trained to handle the construction, plumbing, and electrical work involved. Compare top walk-in tub brands to get a sense of installation prices.

Modernize can help you connect with local contractors handling the various aspects of such an important job. Our professional network includes those with experience with universal design elements and help make a home more accessible.

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Safety is the main advantage to walk-in tubs, but there are so many other potential benefits! Go to the link in our bio to learn more!

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Find the Right Contractor for Your Walk In Tubs Project

Whether you’re ready to begin your project now or need some expert advice, our network of contractors are here to help. With a few simple questions, we’ll find the best local professionals for you

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