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Are Whirlpool Tub Shower Combinations Safe for Seniors?

Written By: Irene Lefever
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: April 30, 2021
Last updated: September 30, 2022

Seniors want to have a sense of independence in their homes, even in their more vulnerable state. For this reason, their bath options must maximize their safety and comfort, above all things.

For most seniors, walk-in bathtubs, even whirlpool tub shower combos, are recommended. These come with different features that will fit their mobility and security needs. Generally, walk-in tubs are safe to use for seniors. However, when you are shopping for walk-in tubs, there are things you should look for.

Here are some of the safety features your whirlpool tub should have.

1. Grab Bars

A whirlpool walk-in tub must have a grab bar, mainly because of the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Having grab bars on the side of the tub allows them to have something to hold on to, especially in cases of slipping or sliding.

Additionally, grab bars aid our elders to get in and out of the tub safer, giving them a sense of independence.

2. Anti-Scald Technology

With the limited mobility older adults have, quickly adjusting temperatures can be more challenging for them. When a tub has smart temperature regulation, seniors who have difficulty handling faucets are safe against being burned.

3. Built-In Seats

Unlike the standard bathtub, walk-in tubs have built-in seats with a similar height to a chair. The worries carers may have related to falling or sitting too low on a stool are addressed through properly heightened built-in seats.

4. Easy Unlock

One of the fears people have towards bathtubs is possibly getting stuck inside. With quickly unlocking systems, elders are free to escape and avoid getting stuck because they cannot open the door.

5. Anti-Slip Flooring

One of the dangers of using bathtubs is the possibility of slipping and suffering from injuries. With anti-slip flooring, we lower the chances of falling when they enter, exit, or move around the tub.

6. Handheld Shower Wands

Whirlpool tub and shower combinations boost flexibility through the availability of handheld shower wands. Using wands allows water to reach body parts harder for them to access without worrying about excess movement.

Having one is a bonus for carers who give baths, too, as well as, for cleaners who make sure the tub is safe for use every time.

Whirlpool tub and shower combinations are generally safe for seniors, as long as you know which safety features to look for when you shop. Learn more when you check out this whirlpool tub and shower combo buying guide from Senior Strong today!

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Irene Lefever is a senior advisor whose role is to make sure that senior citizens’ physical, mental, psychological, and emotional needs are catered to. Lefever got her degree in Multimedia Arts at the University of California, Riverside.
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