Avoid a slip in the bathroom
BEING able to wash yourself in the bath is key to maintaining your independence.
But as we get older, bathing can often become quite daunting. There is the worry, for example, of maintaining balance when getting in and out of the bath.
Poor reach and grasp can make it hard to stay steady, while turning taps and adjusting water temperature can become problematic.
Similarly, slippery bath tub and floor surfaces can raise the risk of a fall, which can really affect confidence, leaving a person in constant fear of falling again. Two-thirds of accidents in the bathroom occur during bathing or showering.
And unfortunately, the older we get, the greater the risk. Research shows that injuries increase with age, peaking after 85. A walk-in bath makes for much safer bathing, greatly reducing the worry of a fall.
There are four types. One (pictured) looks much like a standard bath, but with a door in the side, allowing you to enjoy a full-length soak without worries about how you are going to clamber in and out. An optional power seat can be easily removed to allow your family or guests to use the bath.
The second is a shower bath, which again has a door in the side and the option of a power seat. But it has an extra-roomy shower area and screen.
Another type is a walk-in bath with an easy access door and contoured seating, allowing you to enjoy a deeper, more satisfying bath, while sitting upright.
An internal grab rail, thermostatically controlled lever taps and optional hydrotherapy system are among the other advantages.
And then there are compact walk-in baths that are designed to fit into the smallest of bathrooms. Just walk in, sit down and enjoy a safe, comfortable and relaxing bathing experience.
A walk-in bath can often be colour-matched to your existing suite and made to fit in the same space as your old bath.