Safer Bathtubs Now Available for Seniors

2/22/2007

(NewsUSA) - When people are young, they think nothing of raising their leg the 2.5 feet it takes to step over the side of the tub. But as they grow older, this simple, initial step in the bathing process can become a difficult experience.

Many senior citizens have given up the simple pleasure of taking a tub bath. Some fear slipping and falling as they attempt to step over the side of the tub. Others fear they will not be able to lift themselves back into a standing position once they have finished their bath.

But now, getting in and out of the tub is easier with "walk-in" baths. A walk-in bath is exactly what it sounds like: a bathtub with a door built into its side, allowing easy access into and out of the tub.

Instead of raising a leg up and over the side, a bather merely steps over the lip of the low-level entry door. In most models, this lip is only a few inches high instead of the 2.5 feet needed to step up and over the wall of a conventional tub.

Once inside, the bather takes a seat on the raised, contoured seat, closes the door, secures it tightly and turns on the faucet. The luxury of enjoying a deep soak in complete confidence is moments away.