Project Profile: How Walk In Tubs for Seniors Support Independent Living
Sep 20, 2023when it comes to living independently, walk in tubs for seniors have many benefits
After 19 years in her home, a tub-to-shower conversion, a kitchen remodel, and other improvements under her belt, Loretta Seipel is no stranger to independent living. She also knows what she likes and doesn’t “hem and haw too much” over decisions, she says.
So when Loretta got the idea of replacing her standard bathtub with a walk-in tub, she turned to Improveit and made it happen.
“I met Improveit at the Columbus Home & Garden Show a few years ago and hired them to replace my whirlpool tub with a shower,” Loretta says.
“I had another bathtub in the home, but I never used it. Since I’m getting older and I’d like to stay here as long as I can, I started thinking about a walk-in tub and decided, ‘I’m going to do this for myself.'”
Walk In Tubs for Seniors create More Independent Living Opportunities
Loretta is one of nearly 80% of seniors, according to AARP, who say they want to remain in their communities and their homes as they age. Nearly the same number of older adults say bathroom modifications are necessary in order to stay in their homes long-term. This is usually because of mobility issues and fall hazards, which can make bathrooms dangerous. More than 25% of Americans over age 65 will experience a fall this year, so fall prevention at home is essential.
Ensuring Senior Bathtubs Meet All the Homeowner's Needs
Loretta’s new bathroom update is a perfect example of the senior bathtubs that Improveit has been installing more and more to help homeowners meet safe bathing needs. With their low threshold, convenient hand-held shower, integrated grab bars, and built-in bench seat, walk-in tubs are the ultimate safe bathing experience.
This project is also a great example of how Improveit installers work closely with homeowners to ensure every detail is perfect.
To see more photos and product selection detais from Loretta’s project, click here.
After removing the old tub and adding all-new waterproof backerboard to the bathing space, our installer Rob placed the faucet and handles on the tub, made all the necessary plumbing and electrical connections before fitting the new tub into place.
For all of our bath, shower, and walk-in tub installations, Improveit installers make sure to connect with the homeowner for product education. Here, Rob used the opportunity to show Loretta the features of her new walk-in tub, including how the bathtub door secures shut, and how to use the controls, tub filler, and hand shower.
Rob also used this checkpoint to ensure the gasket around the walk-in tub door stayed watertight, and that all plumbing and electrical connections were correct – all while answering any of Loretta’s questions.
WATCH: Click below to hear first-hand from Loretta about her walk-in tub experience.
With Loretta’s approval and everything working correctly, Rob and his team finished the job by building out a short filler wall. This closed the gap between the shorter walk-in tub and the bathroom wall. He then installed the acrylic shower surround, caulked the entire space, and cleaned up. The whole project only took a few days from tear-out to completion!
designed for seniors, walk in tub features bring safety and style
In addition to giving her a bathtub that she can get in and out of safely, Loretta says her new walk-in tub will be a beautiful space to recuperate from some planned medical procedures. In fact, hydrotherapy is one of the many benefits of walk-in tubs, giving bathers the ability to soak in warm water that helps improve circulation, and can help alleviate joint and muscle strain.
“I’m looking forward to just relaxing,” Loretta says. She adds with a laugh, “my kids will have to leave me messages to say, ‘Mom, get out of the tub!'”
Ready for a Walk-In Tub of Your Own?
With so many features and benefits, walk in tubs for seniors are ideal for supporting independent living and safe bathing needs. If you think a walk-in tub could be the right solution for you or a loved one, fill out the form below to learn more. You can also explore our Accessible Bathing page to learn about walk-in tub alternative options or take our quiz here. We look forward to helping with your safe senior living needs!
