Taking care of personal needs can be extremely frustrating for senior citizens, or anyone with mobility issues. Many suffer the indignity of needing assistance getting in and out of the tub and bathing. However, by exploring the practicalities of walk in bathtubs, we can allow our loved ones to regain their independence and mobility.

Traditionally designed bathtubs are dangerous for even the most able-bodied among us, with slips and falls accounting for millions of injuries annually. For the elderly and anyone with limited mobility, the tub can become even more dangerous. Walk in bathtubs effectively allow the user to enter and exit the tub safely and easily.

Climbing over the side of a traditional bathtub can be difficult for many people with limited mobility, reduced strength and balance problems. Most walk in bathtubs are designed with a door that opens inward so that the user can just walk in. No more balancing on one foot and climbing over the side of the tub. The doors are easy to use, with an average width of about 18-20 inches.

Of course, many people also have trouble lowering themselves down into a traditional bathtub. Bending and sitting are often difficult for those with limited mobility. Most bathtubs require the user to sit at floor level, a feat difficult for many. Walk in bathtubs solve this problem by providing a comfortable, safe seat for the bather to use while in the tub.

Walk in bathtubs are designed for safety and ease of use by those with limited mobility. With this in mind, the tubs are usually equipped with hand held shower units, skid resistant surfaces and easy to manipulate controls. Most manufacturers have also incorporated specially designed surfaces into their units to make cleaning and maintenance easy and comfortable for users.

There are many practical reasons to purchase a walk in bathtub for your loved one. Allowing them to regain their dignity and independence while bathing safely is perhaps the most valuable.

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Bath Tubs & Bathing. Claire provides more information on her site about Walk in Bathtubs that you can research at home.