Handicap and Walk in Bathtubs - ADA Showers and Tubs for the Handicap and Disabled

When it comes to special needs and bathing, handicap and walk in bathtubs are a great option. If you or someone you know is handicap, disabled, or has mobility problems, it is likely that you have considered the purchase of handicap showers and tubs to make bathing easier.

The extremely accessible walk in bathtubs are among the most popular option. Walk in bathtubs actually have a door on the side that opens for easy entrance and exit with no step.

You may see the terms ADA and walk in bathtubs used together. ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. This government ruling (under the US Department of Justice) sets forth regulations, guidelines, standards, and certifications for accessible design of fixtures for the disabled.  (For information about ADA, visit their website http://www.ada.gov ) There are many handicap walk in bathtubs that are ADA compliant.

Some people are hesitant to get a walk in bathtub because they do not think it will be as luxurious as standard models. This is simply not true. While handicap tubs tend to be a bit more expensive than a standard tub, you can still find affordable walk in bathtubs with all types of features. There are disabled and walk in bathtub that have whirlpool jets. Most models of walk in bathtubs double as showers, so you can choose whether to take a shower or a bath.

You can even create a spa like bathroom that is handicap accessible and safe with the help of certain manufacturers such as Premier walk in bathtubs. There are plenty of handicap bathtubs and showers easy to get in and out of that look like high end luxury tubs. Whether you’re looking for a walk in soaking tub, or an easily accessible Jacuzzi tub, your options are limitless. Plus, walk in bathtub manufacturers offer a wide variety of options at many different prices, so you’ll find that there is something to meet every need and budget.

If you are considering the purchase of a walk in bathtub but unsure of what features are available or the price ranges, a great place to start is visiting local home improvement stores to get an ideas. Many popular brands such as American Standard and Kohler make these tubs and actually sell them at common stores such as Lowes and Home Depot, so you don't have to worry about added expenses for special ordering your walk in tub.

You should know that you do not have to go through an entire remodel on your bathroom just because you need to make it handicap accessible. Instead, consider adding a handicap shower seat to your shower and changing the stall to offer a wider doorway, which will accommodate a handicap lift. Also, consider installing other safety features such as hand rails, safety bars, and non slip flooring mats. Even luxurious soaking tubs such as claw footed bathtubs can become more handicap safe and accessible by using a handicap lift and a seat within the tub. Once again, you will need to add grab bars on the sides of the tub or the wall, but it can be done without installing a walk in bathtub especially if there is some mobility possible.

If your budget does allow for it, the best option though is to create a complete handicap safe bath area with a complete remodel. Make sure that you not only create a safe bathtub, but a safe and handicap accessible bathroom as well with remodeling of other fixtures such as lowering sinks and installing a handicap accessible toilet. and a handicap accessible tub and shower. Whether you are the care taker or the one in need of a handicap “friendly” bathroom, this will ensure that the entire bathroom and bathing experience remains relaxing and pleasurable for everyone involved.

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and make bathing easy and relaxing again. No matter what your needs, you will find that there is a handicap accessible walk in bathtub or shower out there for you.