Elder Care in Penn Hills PA: Are Walk-In Tubs Worth The Money?
Your parents have been having a harder time getting in and out of the bathtub lately. The step over the side of the tub is hard on their arthritic knees and hips. You worry about them falling, even though grab bars are in place. After seeing an ad for a walk-in tub, you wonder if they’re worth the money. We’ve taken a closer look.
What is a Walk-In Tub?
Walk-in bathtubs are slightly larger than the tub you have in your house. The outer wall of the bathtub has a door that swings open making it easier to get in and out. These tubs often come with special features like whirlpool jets, built-in shower chairs, safety bars, and hand-held shower wands.
How do the Tubs Work?
When your mom or dad needs to take a bath or shower, they unlock the door, open it, walk in, and close and lock the door again. This makes sure the door seal is fully in place and ready to handle water. Your mom or dad sits on the built-in seat while taking a shower with the hand-held nozzle or while enjoying the benefits of the therapeutic whirlpool jets.
Once your mom or dad is done bathing, they drain the tub. These tubs often have a feature that helps the tub drain quickly. When the water is below the level of the door sill, your parent opens the door and steps back out. Grab bars help offer support while getting out of the tub.
How Much Extra Are These Tubs?
Depending on the brand and feature, built-in tubs range in price. At Home Depot, prices range from $1,500 to $6,300. You have the cost of installation on top of this. According to HomeAdvisor, national averages for a bathtub installation range from $1,000 to almost $5,000. It’s not unheard of to spend upwards of $10,000 on a walk-in tub.
There are companies that offer discounts of $1,000 to $2,000, but you do have to look at the overall cost. Can you mom or dad afford that kind of investment? Many seniors living on a fixed income simply do not have the money for a walk-in tub.
To ease your mind and ensure your mom or dad are able to get showered safely in the morning consider hiring a caregiver. Elder care professionals are trained to help your mom or dad bathe each morning. These caregivers understand the need for a senior to keep his or her dignity without risking safety. To learn more, call an elder care agency today.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Penn Hills, PA, please call and talk to the caring staff at Extended Family Care of Pittsburgh at (412) 693-6009. We will answer all of your questions.
Sources:
http://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/plumbing/install-a-bathtub/
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