For those with reduced mobility, having an assisted bath installed can be a great addition to their home. It allows them to enjoy the relaxation and comfort a bathtub can bring that they have been previously missing out on. Read on to learn more about the benefits of an assisted bath.
The Dangers Of Regular Baths
Regular, non-assisted baths can present a host of dangers for those with reduced mobility. Having to climb over the edge of the bath can lead to strains, pulled muscles, bruising, or injury to the spine. Non-assisted baths can also be highly slippery and present the risk of falling over, leading to potentially severe injuries such as broken limbs or head injuries
Reduce Injury
An assisted bath is one of the best ways for you to help avoid injury and make for a safer bathing experience. As the side of an assisted bath features a door that can be opened, it removes the need for a person to climb over the side, removing the risk of injury that this presents. They can also feature non-slip bases, making it less likely for the user to experience slips and falls getting in and out of the bathtub. Assisted baths don’t just have to be for those with reduced mobility either. You can invest in an assisted bath to help make sure you’re prepared for the future, or simply to make bathing a more comfortable experience and reduce the risk of injury even if you still have a good level of mobility.
Height Adjustable
A height-adjustable bath means that it can be lowered or raised to meet the individual requirements of the person using it. This not only makes transferring in and out of the bathtub easier for the person using it but also allows easier access for carers and those assisting the person using the bath. The bath can be lowered or raised throughout being used, reducing strain and injury for a carer as it can be raised up to the right level for providing care.
Increased Manoeuvrability
Traditional baths tend to be very simplistic in the way they are designed, meaning they are only really useful for those with the mobility to be able to get in and out of them and use its features. An assisted bath is designed with ease of use in mind, as well as how to make the bathing experience simpler. Features such as a side door opening make getting in and out far easier, as well as adjustable height allowing the user to tailor it to their individual needs. However, it’s not just accessibility that’s improved with an assisted bath. There is also more opportunity for increased maneuverability too. For example, features such as taps and showerheads are designed to be easier to use and more flexible than in a traditional bath. The shape of the tub can be custom designed for the needs of the user, such as tailored seating, cushion padding for extra support, and grab rails to allow for increased self-sufficient movement.
Extra Features
There are even more improved features available with assisted baths too. Anti-microbial coatings can be added to the inside of the bath to allow for more hygienic use and reduced spreading of germs. Temperature-controlled taps mean that there is no risk of accidental scalding or icy-cold water should a tap onto the wrong setting. Baths can also be designed for different lengths, depending on the height and weight of the person’s individual needs. Plugs don’t have to be traditionally placed in the centre of the bath, instead of being placed at the far end to prevent discomfort or accidental drainage.
Hoist And Sling Compatible
One of the most important features of an assisted bath over a standard bath is that they are designed to be compatible with hoist and sling use. Meaning even those with severely reduced mobility can still get to enjoy the soothing relaxation of bathing. Bath lifts can also be installed for those that are unable to climb in and out of the bathtub.
Retain Independence And Dignity
An assisted bath is a fantastic way to ensure those with reduced mobility can retain their independence and improve their self-esteem. The use of a regular bath may become of limits if it presents too much risk of injury for those struggling to mobilise in and out of it, which can really affect their quality of life if bathing is something they enjoy or helps to soothe aches and pains. Adding an assisted bath to their life will make sure they don’t have to miss out on the pleasure a relaxing bath can bring them and improve their physical and emotional wellbeing. As assisted baths can be used with or without the aid of a carer, they provide an increased level of independence for a range of needs. Whether being used in a care home or to help improve independence in a person’s own home, the improved design makes bathing a lot safer and more accessible.
