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Safer Bathtubs for Seniors: Why These Features Make a Walk-in Tub the Perfect Option

April 10, 2019  |   2 min read
Woman rinsing off using handshower in KOHLER Walk-In Bath
KOHLER Walk-In Bath with wide door overhead
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For seniors who wish to remain independent in their homes, certain bathtub features are more important for safety and comfort than others. With unique needs and mobility challenges, there are many factors for seniors to consider before making a purchase, like whether to install a new traditional bathtub or a walk-in tub instead.

Whether you are planning your home for your golden years or need a new accessible bathing solution immediately, here are some features to keep top-of-mind as you shop.

With a walk-in tub, maintaining your independence at home is ultimately the best feature.

Step-In Height

Walk-in Tub

The threshold you step over to enter the walk-in tub is quite low, which is a huge advantage when outfitting your home with a tub well-suited for older adults. Designed to prevent the user from lifting their leg too high to enter the bath, the accessible step-in is one of the most important features to note when you compare walk-in tubs. The KOHLER® Walk-In Bath offers an ultra-low 3” step-in, one of the lowest on the market.

Traditional Bathtub

This is the biggest (quite literal) hurdle for traditional tubs. With a common tub height of 14 to 16 inches, there’s a high step to take over the lip of the tub, which can be hazardous for some. The risk of accidents is heightened with wet floors as well.

Therapy Features

adjustable whirlpool jets in walk in tub

Walk-in Tub

Many seniors look for comfort features, such as hydrotherapy jets and a heated backrest, to add a spa-like feel to their bathing experience. Whirlpool and air jets are quality enhancements that can massage aching muscles and soothe joint pain. Additional in-line heating can make the bath more comfortable while they soak.

Traditional Bathtub

Most traditional tubs do not come with therapeutic features on standard models. They’re often only included in an upgraded model or as add-on features. Whirlpool and air jets are common add-on features for traditional bathtubs, but in-line heating for tubs is a rarer feature.

Tip: Ensure that you research the quality of the jets rather than the quantity. Having too many jets can decrease the overall power of the jet system.

Handrails & Grab Bars

Walk-in Tub

Your safety as you enter, exit and operate the walk-in bathtub is paramount. Look for tubs that offer surrounding handrails and easily accessible grab bars. These will help you transition securely from standing to sitting. The KOHLER Walk-In Bath features a grab bar and an indented handrail around the rim of the tub for secure movement at every step.

Traditional Bathtub

A traditional bathtub may include handrails or grab bars as an upgrade or add-on feature. With some bathtubs, there may be a handrail on the shower door. This may not be as stable as a wall handrail or grab bar, but it does provide leverage against a potential slip. 

Other features to considerWoman using multifunction shower head in the Kohler Walk-In Bath

With a walk-in tub, most or all of these features are thoughtfully included in even the most basic models.

Stay in the home you love with accessible, therapeutic bathing features that make every soak more enjoyable. 

Explore even more Walk-In Bath safety features during your free in-home quote.

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  • Professional, Attentive Installers

    “Everything the installation team did was very very professional and high quality workmanship, from start to finish. Their attention to detail was a sight to behold. We were always kept informed of all work, progress or delays...The KOHLER Team is right up there with the best!” - David S., Lexington, NC
  • Beautiful Walk-Tub and Shower Combo With Warranty

    “Both the tub and shower are wonderful to use and look absolutely beautiful. In addition, the lifetime warranty gives us peace of mind, and the service we’ve received has been excellent.” - Nancy M., Mequon, WI
  • Relaxing Hydrotherapy and Convenient Comfort Features

    “I am so happy with my KOHLER Walk-In Bath. It is my luxury relaxation spot for me time. The tub seat is great when taking a quick shower then sitting for leg shaving. The shower handle hose is long enough to hang higher in a wall mounted holder for stand up showers, or reach around your back when sitting.” - Mychelle T., Tulsa, OK
  • Professional, Two-Day Installation

    “I thought the workmanship was professional, and it was very well done. It was very clean and everything was cleaned up and done in two days.” - Carolyn A., Roseville, CA
  • Hydrotherapy Jets Soothe Back and Legs

    “I have significant back and leg issues. It has been very helpful with the therapy jets. It has met my expectations.” - Stephen H., Phoenix, AZ
  • There’s No Better Installation Team

    “We could not have wished for a better team. Very professional and were pleasant with their replies to our questions. The team explained in detail the operation of the walk-in tub.” - Ira And Therese M., Berkeley Springs, WV
KOHLER Walk-In Bath with wide door overhead
THIS MONTH ONLY!
$1,000 Off + Low Monthly Payments

For a limited time, take $1,000 off the KOHLER® Walk-In Bath. Plus, enjoy low monthly payments. Contact us today to claim your exclusive savings.


See More Offer Details
CLOSE
Call to speak with a KOHLER Dealer: (800) 707-5276

Request a free quote

Request a free quote

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