Maintaining independence and safety at home is crucial for seniors as they get older. Installing a walk-in tub or shower is one of the best methods to improve comfort and safety in the bathroom. These features, along with others that might be recommended by senior home care providers, offer seniors who are aging in place many advantages in addition to increasing accessibility.
Increased Security
Rightfully so, seniors are particularly concerned about bathroom falls. The risk of falling increases due to wet flooring and the high entrance and exit of bathtubs. With walk-in tubs and showers, however, this risk is significantly reduced. Additionally, to provide extra support, grab bars, and safety rails are frequently included in walk-in bathtubs and showers. Add that to non-slip flooring, and seniors gain added confidence in the bathroom.
Increased Usability
Traditional showers and baths might be difficult for seniors with limited mobility to use. These issues are resolved by the user-friendly features found in walk-in bathtubs and showers.
Simple Access and Out: As mentioned above, seniors can enter and exit walk-in tubs safely thanks to lower thresholds and the secure opening and closing of the tub door. Also, benches or built-in chairs in showers offer a steady spot to sit while taking a shower.
Adjustable Controls: Many walk-in tub and shower versions have simple, easy-to-use controls that eliminate the need for bending or stretching.
Convenience and Availability
Walk-in tubs and showers also make bathing more comfortable for seniors who may be experiencing joint pain or limited movement. One way this is achieved is with built-in seating. This seating allows seniors to sit down while taking a bath to relieve strain and discomfort. Also, certain walk-in tubs come equipped with jets or bubble massage devices that help ease sore muscles and encourage relaxation.
Greater Self-Sufficiency
It’s critical for seniors who want to age in place to maintain their freedom. With the help of walk-in tubs and showers, seniors increase their independence and their peace of mind. This increased self-sufficiency also gives them increased confidence.
Maintenance Ease
While senior home care can assist with many cleaning tasks, including ensuring the bathroom is cleaned and ready to go, many seniors wish to double-check the cleanliness of the bathroom space. With the addition of walk-in tubs or showers, maintenance is easier. Part of this is thanks to the non-porous, smooth materials used to make a lot of walk-in tubs and showers. These materials are easier to clean and less likely to grow mold or mildew. Also, controls and fixtures are frequently placed at a comfortable height, which helps seniors reach them for cleaning.
Seniors who want to age in place can greatly benefit from walk-in showers and tubs, which can boost their independence in addition to improving safety and comfort. Investing in these accessible bathroom amenities would not only make life easier daily but also ensure a longer-term, safer, and more enjoyable home. Working together, senior home care and loved ones can assess the need for this change and others to ensure the home works best for the senior’s particular needs.
Sources:https://www.kohlerwalkinbath.com/solutions/#:~:text=When%20providing%20in%2Dhome%20care,dignity%20and%20sense%20of%20independence.
https://www.rebath.com/blog/top-8-benefits-of-walk-in-bathtubs-for-seniors/
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care in Putnam County TN, please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (931) 208-1019
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Cookeville, Algood, Baxter, Monterey, Sparta, Smithville, Livingston, Dodson Branch, Gainesboro, Putnam County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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