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Mother’s Day is upon us and in addition to cards, gifts and the inevitable brunch, it may be time for you to consider thanking your mom in a different way, by recognizing that moms (and dads) of a certain age need a little extra help getting around their homes, and especially, the bathroom. Which is why Cool Stuff decided to focus on the bathroom, specifically, the bathtub and shower.
Considering it’s where even the most well-abled of us is likely to have an accident, it’s no surprise most in-home falls happen in the bathroom. Slippery surfaces plus some physical or mobility challenges almost always equals trouble. So for all you good sons and daughters, here’s a primer on Accessible, or Walk-In Tubs.
Walk-In Tubs – What to Look For
One of the best adjustments you can make to a bathroom to help seniors avoid slipping or falling issues is a walk-in tub, which are tubs that allow a person to enter the tub without climbing over the side by virtue of a self-sealing door that extends to near ground level. These handy bathroom add-ons can allow Mom, Dad, Aunt or Uncle to stay in their home longer and enjoy their lives, without needing someone — you? — to check on them as regularly. Accessible or Walk-in tubs also provide welcome relief from aches and pains, and can be relatively simple to add to an existing bathroom. Consider the following options:
Standard Soaker Tubs
The basic, covers-the-bases walk-in bath. These normally hold about 78 gallons of water (unoccupied; a standard tub holds about 40 gallons) at generally 30 inches across. With a seat and a few grab bars included, this is a great choice for the bather accustomed to getting in and out without a lot of fuss.
Reclining Soakers
As the name implies, you’ll get a bit more relaxation for your money with a reclining soaker. Designed to lay back at an angle rather than sitting straight up, these models add a bit more spa feel to the bathroom and can improve relaxation. Fire up the essential oil mister and a couple Enya albums for an even more immersive experience!
Whirlpool Tubs
If you want to take the at-home spa experience up a notch, this is the tub style for you. Choose from models with lots of jets, or just a few, and since most of these come standard with fast-fill and fast-drain options, you’re in and out as quickly as possible. You can also find these models with additional features like a detachable hand shower, heated surfaces, and extra-low step in to complete the luxury experience.
Wheelchair Accessible Tubs
If you need to accomodate a loved one with a specific mobility issue, these styles typically provide a larger door opening, making entering and exiting much easier. This is also a good option to consider if your aging loved one could have increasing mobility issues in the future.
Even if you don’t install a walk-in tub (installation can usually be done in a day), here are features you can add to your existing bath to make Mom feel a bit more secure.
Hand Holds
Crucial additions for your elderly mom. They should be sturdy and in a convenient, reachable location when entering and exiting the tub.
Textured Surfaces
Think about getting your mom a tub with a floor and seating area that has textured surfaces to help maintain grip and stability while bathing.
Fast- Fill, and Fast-Drain Features
Fast-fill and fast-drain options makes the bathing process more enjoyable (not to mention, quicker.) These features may cost a bit more, but are generally worth the peace of mind to help prevent an over-eager bather from injury or accident.
Buying Walk-In Tubs in Portland
The biggest choice you’ll face buying walk in tubs in Portland is the dealer. Most walk in tubs are pre-fabricated, so whether you’re leaning towards a Kohler design, Safe Step, Bliss Tub, American Standard, or other brand, find a local dealer that works with that brand, or at least provides a similar option.
Find a walk-in tub provider
Get a few quotes on tub + installation costs, as well as timeline, to see which dealer can work best with you and your elder loved one’s needs.
More resources on walk in tubs in Portland:
(Cool Stuff features product reviews, roundups, sales and other commerce and shopping-oriented content. All Cool Stuff reviews are editorially independent, meaning we provide honest reviews and aren’t paid by the brands we write about. If you do choose to purchase something after following one of our links, Willamette Week may receive a commission, which helps fund our journalism.)