Bathtubs are one of the nicest features you’ll see in a bathroom. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, having a warm bath is also a relaxing way to spend the evening after work. But what about our loved ones who are seniors, or have difficulty moving or lifting a leg to enter the tub? Well, this is where tub cut-outs come in.
Also known as the step-in tub, or simply tub cuts, this customized tub feature offers easy access for individuals with mobility issues and limited range of motion. This is a cost-effective alternative to bathroom renovations as it does not require individuals to change bathroom space and flooring.
So let’s dive further into this subject so we can learn more about the benefits of this customized tub feature, and how it can help seniors and individuals with mobility issues make a difference with their activities of daily living.
Enhanced Safety and Accessibility
The number one reason that people have this tub feature installed, is due to the safety and easy access that it offers. It’s often hard for seniors and individuals with mobility issues to step in and out of the tub, so to make things easier and safer for them, the step-in tub was developed. By removing the need to lift a leg to step over, the risk of sliding or falling is greatly reduced.
Also, you don’t need to be a senior or suffer from mobility issues to have your existing tub converted into a step-in tub. A number of individuals have had their tubs converted so that they may enjoy a walk-in shower.
Not to mention, accidents can happen any time, and that doesn’t exclude young individuals. So as a safety precaution, more and more people are having their bathtubs converted.
Cost-Effective Solution
Construction and renovations can be expensive and time consuming. The removal of a bathtub from a tiled flooring can take a while. Not everyone has access to such time and luxuries, so they will opt for a more cost-effective solution.
Thus, step-in tubs are a good option. Not only is this cost-effective, it only takes a limited amount of time. It does not require installers to remove the whole tub and just to have a new shower installed.
Also, only a section of a tub is cut out to the client’s preference, and it’s fitted with a custom-made insert. A very quick process when compared to a full bathroom renovation.
Easily-Customized to Individual needs
Most of these individuals with mobility issues work with Physical and Occupational Therapists. So there is a requirement that should fit their physical needs, based on their mobility impairments.
The beauty of this tub modification is that it can be easily-customized according to the medical professional’s assessment. Individuals don’t have to worry about using only one specific design because installers can work with therapists to further assist them with their needs. This guarantees their safety even more.
Increased Independence and Comfort
Independence is quite a significant thing and crucial to one’s psychological growth. Most seniors and individuals with mobility impairments feel happier when they’ve gained back their independence especially when it comes to physical activities and other daily tasks.
Part of one’s ADLs (Activities of daily living) is bathing or showering. One way for seniors and individuals with mobility issues to gain back independence is to be able to bathe or shower by themselves. The step-in tub makes this possible for them, as they will need little to no-assistance when getting in or out the tub.
Furthermore, there is a positive psychological effect that happens within these individuals since gaining your independence back gives you more comfort and confidence.
Improved Quality of life
Tub cuts provide individuals with the safety and comfort that they need to perform bathing and showering activities. Because it is customized to fit their mobility impairments, it provides them with more independence.
As we all know, bathing is a very personal task that is usually done alone. By enabling independent bathing or showering, individuals become confident and more self-sufficient.
Lastly, by being able to maintain good hygiene independently, it creates a more positive outlook for these individuals. Also, aging in place (health supported services while living independently as a senior or as a person with disability) is supported by tub cuts, allowing individuals to maintain independence while remaining in a familiar surrounding. This in turn provides them with an improved quality of life.
Key Takeaway
A cost-effective way to maintain safety for seniors and other individuals with mobility issues, is having tub-cut outs installed. It is significantly cheaper when compared to a full bathroom renovation that requires removing existing tubs and installing a new shower area.
Furthermore, aside from being cost-effective, it offers significant key benefits like enhanced safety and accessibility, easy-customization for individual needs, increased independence and comfort.
Ultimately, this tub isgreat for seniors and people with mobility impairments as companies who install them can also work with medical professionals to cater the specific needs of these individuals. With only a simple tub modification, their quality of life is improved and independence is restored!
