If you were to ask a selection of people, from all around the world, to compile a list of ten ways to de-stress and relax, I am confident that taking a long soak in the bath would feature on many of those lists.
Through the different phases of our lives, bathing has a unique place because it involves much more than getting clean, says Columbus Walk In Bath Solutions, a provider of walk-in tubs in Columbus. From the childhood days when it was more about a multitude of bubbles, splashes and rubber ducks to getting ready for a date (shaving legs is easier in a bath.)
Or “one of those days” when you stumble in the door, cold, wet and tired and all you want to do is sink into a warm, luxuriously fragrant bath, with something chilled and bubbly in a glass nearby. Some religions even have baths as part of their daily spiritual rituals – a way to feel clean both inside and out.
Who needs a walk-in bath?
But what do you do when climbing into a bath is not possible due to illness, injury or old age? What if the fear of slipping or being scalded is preventing you from enjoying the simple act of bathing as part of your daily cleansing regime? Particularly, soaking in a warm bath would be the perfect time to give you the pain relief, relaxation and feeling of wellbeing that you so desperately need.
That is when a walk-in bath provides a perfect solution. And even when the physical act of walking is not possible, with a little assistance, the walk-in bath is still a viable option and can be useful for all members of the family.
Many walk-in baths have unique features, such as temperature-controlled taps and quick, efficient filling and draining for your safety and convenience. For some people, the possibility of retaining independence and dignity is well worth the additional cost. Walk-in baths can also have integrated showers, so it is possible to have all of your bathing preferences met in one unit.
How do I choose the best walk-in bath?
With so many types to choose from, it is easy to find one that would suit your particular needs and budget. The ranges include purely functional types of baths with basic features and a “medical” look to the top-of-the-range luxury baths with therapeutic jets such as Ella’s Bubbles or luxury Spas Inc. which can be viewed below.
What if bathroom space is an issue?
Even in the smallest of bathrooms, it is possible to incorporate a walk-in bath. Due to the advanced technology used in the design and construction materials, these baths can be adjusted if space-saving is essential to your needs. For anyone considering a bathroom renovation, it is also worth thinking about installing a walk-in bath for your own possible bathing needs in the future or as a potential selling point for your home. They can be designed to blend with your décor and style and include additional storage facilities that are easily accessible.
Where do I find a retailer I can trust?
It is interesting to note that in some countries, companies manufacturing and selling walk-in baths work in association with charities which raise funds to promote independent living for the elderly and disabled.
It is reassuring to know that, although there is a commercial aspect to the selling of these products, some distributors are dedicated to providing a caring service in a professional and friendly manner. I believe that this is an important point for vulnerable people who are making a potentially large investment and who need to feel confident and secure in making the decision to buy a walk-in bath.
Some general information
According to the World Health Organization , by 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older will outnumber children younger than 5 years.”
This data applies to many countries in Europe and Asia that are facing a growing aged population, many of whom are going to need assistance with their basic daily bathing regime, amongst many other needs. If elderly people can continue to be as independent as possible then this will relieve the pressure on family and carers.
Conclusion
To summarize, I believe that walk-in baths offer many benefits including:
- Independence, dignity and safety for elderly and disabled people
- Relaxation, pain relief and a sense of wellbeing
- There is a wide choice of these types of baths available to suit differing needs and budgets
- A walk-in bath could add value to your home – especially if you are trying to sell in a retirement village
- Many of the companies that market such products have a genuine interest in supporting the aged community and you can be confident that you will be treated with respect and professionalism
- If you fit the demographic of being 60+, then you are part of a growing international phenomenon! You deserve to age with dignity and have earned the right to choose the bath you want.