Walk-In Tub vs. Bath Lift: Which is Right for You?
As people start to get older, it's common for mobility issues to make getting in and out of the bath something of a chore. Even if mobility is still good, many older people suffer from weakened bones that make slips in the bathroom into a much more dangerous affair.
Of course, you still need to keep clean, and taking a bath is generally more relaxing than taking a shower. You'll usually end up trying to choose between a walk-in bathtub or a bathtub lift. Which one is right for you really depends on your own situation, so read through the relative benefits before making up your mind.
Why Would You Install a Walk-In Tub?
As you probably already know, walk-in tubs have a door to one side, meaning you can walk in and out of them at will once all the water has drained. Because the tub itself is built around the needs of those with mobility problems, they tend to incorporate a more upright design, so you'll be sitting rather than lying down. This is nice for older people since weight is distributed more evenly and there's no need to pull oneself up after the bath is over.
Walk-in bathtubs are also a little easier to get out of than a bath fitted with a lift. Those lifts will only take you to the lip of the bath, so you might still need help getting all the way out.
Why Would You Install a Bath Lift?
Probably the main reason why people install bath lifts is reduced cost. You'll have to buy a whole new tub when you go for a walk-in, and the installation costs are also likely to be high. A bath-lift can be incorporated into your current tub, making costs much lower. This comes with the additional benefit of retaining the same basic bathtub shape, which is nice if there are other people in the home who do not have mobility problems.
The other main advantage of a bath-lift is that you can get in and out quicker. With a walk-in bath, you need to get in before you start adding water and then wait until the water has drained before getting out. If you're sensitive to temperature changes, adding water while you're seated could be uncomfortable, and you might find yourself getting cold waiting for the water to drain. With a bath-lift, these problems are avoided. For more information, contact a local expert in bathroom renovations.