Walk in Showers Provide Easier Bathing Access for Seniors

Even the most active seniors know that getting older can take a toll on the body. Eyesight may lose its crispness, stride may slow and concerns about personal safety and accident prevention become much more pressing. If you’ve reached the age where taking precautions is just plain smart, walk-in showers can reduce hazards in one of the most dangerous rooms in a home. Sweetening the prospect is the fact that there are so many models and upgrades to choose from that a walk in shower can be selected to provide benefits for everyone in a home, regardless of age.

Showers that provide walk-in access are available in two main types. Choosing between them is often only a matter of personal choice, since standard bathrooms can be easily retrofitted to accommodate either. The options are:

·         Barrier free showers – If you prefer taking showers and see no need for a bath, a barrier free option can create a safer bathroom space. This unique design is similar to a standard home shower stall, but uses a pan that sits as flush to the floor as possible to eliminate the need for a major step over to gain access. Ideal for those with mobility concerns and disabilities, it can also help prevent slips and falls for users of any age. Adding to the safety provided are upgrade options that allow for shower seating and grab bar placement.

·         Walk-in shower tub combinations – When having the option to also take a bath is desired, these unique designs deliver benefits. Walk-in shower tub combinations can be purchased as standalone models to transform downstairs wet rooms, such as laundry areas, into accessible places for bathing. Designs are also available to replace traditional tub/shower models in any bathroom. The advantage of this design is found in its swinging door. By enabling a person to walk-in rather than have to step over a 20-inch side, this type of tub addresses many slip, trip and fall concerns. Since these models may also be upgraded with spa features, such as heated jets, heated seats and aromatherapy, they are likely to be additions that all family members will enjoy.

If it’s time to get proactive to prevent accidents at home, walk-in showers are a discerning addition to any home. These unique designs can help seniors avoid accidents while enabling those who face mobility challenges to remove the need for assistance in the bathroom.