After a certain time, we stop using our bathtubs for the pleasurable bath we were used to in our childhood, and it becomes too big a shower stall. And this is fine, since a daily bath would deplete our water resources in this country too much. However, we all enjoy a hot bath from time to time to help us forget stress or relieve aches and pains.
Hydrotherapy is an ancient method of relaxation and restoration of health. Hospitals even use it to help patients recover from serious injuries or to help treat muscle, joint, and circulatory problems. Stiff or injured muscles respond well to warm water and high pressure jets. It reduces joint pain and is highly recommended for those who suffer from arthritis. The blood vessels dilate and this decreases the tension within the tendons, relieving inflammation. The benefits of a regular bath in these areas of health are reason enough for those who don’t have any problems to try a weekly bath.
However, this method of stress relief is often a dangerous proposition for the elderly and/or disabled. Even with rubber bath mats and grab bars for balance, the big step over the edge of a bathtub can be precarious. The compounded danger of a painful fall for an older person is the possibility of serious injury, either to the bones or to the more delicate tissues and circulation system. Those who live alone will also find this daunting; they may need help after a fall. Even if you live with someone else, it can be embarrassing to have to ask for help in such a compromising state as getting ready for a bath.
By installing an ADA-approved bathtub step, all of these problems are easily avoided. These safety tubs are not just for the elderly, but people with injuries or disabilities can also benefit a lot from this type of tub. Most offer a seat just inside the door, eliminating the need to lie down. This is a great help for those who have chronic lower back problems or a weakened support system. The seat is ergonomically shaped and angled to make diving into the water comfortable and relaxing. Many have a padded headrest for longer baths. The controls stay close, and most step-in tubs come with a shower head attachment to help wash your hair, face, and back. This eliminates the need to fully immerse yourself, which is an awkward proposition in this setup.
Other features to consider are insulated tub walls, so heat doesn’t easily escape. Although this type of bathtub has less water surface area, the body can still radiate heat just as easily as a regular bathtub. These tubs should be made of high-quality fiberglass, and have perfectly finished edges and corners, so they feel smooth and comfortable to the touch. Steel frames are another key feature that ensures the structural integrity of the bathtub. And finally, a high-quality seal is the key to the entire step in the tub idea. Remember to research your bathtub model before purchasing; you don’t want to end up with a leak-prone model.
The benefit of this type of medical tub is that it provides hydrotherapy to those who need it, but are unable to use it due to the design of a traditional tub. This catch-22 is eliminated once a vat step is introduced into the equation.