Over 70,000 Americans visit the emergency room every year for bathing injuries like slipping or getting in or out of the tub, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most vulnerable are the elderly and those with disabilities. Walk-in tubs, with numerous safety features, reduce the risk of falls for these populations. Our partners at We researched the best walk-in tub companies in Indianapolis to narrow down the choices.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injury among Americans over the age of 65, one-quarter of whom suffer a fall each year. In Indianapolis, where about 11 percent of the population is over 65 and 10 percent under 65 have a disability, these falls can be common in bathrooms.
Walk-in tubs in Indianapolis can go a long way toward reducing injuries. These tubs come with a watertight entrance door, a built-in seat and anti-slip flooring. This makes it easy for users to step directly into the tub and sit down comfortably. Most tubs also come standard with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead.
Beyond standard features, purchasers have options for types of tubs and add-ons. There are basic soaker models, aerotherapy tubs, hydrotherapy tubs, wheelchair-accessible tubs and bariatric tubs for larger individuals. Custom features might include a neck rest, aromatherapy, chromatherapy, anti-scald valve or an in-line heater to keep water from cooling.
Apart from providing a safe bathing experience, walk-in tubs offer many health benefits:
Relax muscle tension
Relieve stress
Prevent and soothe pain in muscles and joints
Promote circulation
Enable stretching
Reduce the effects of chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia
How much does a walk-in tub in Indianapolis cost?
The average cost of a walk-in tub and installation is between $5,000 and $7,000 for a simple soaking tub. Some walk-in tubs are less expensive, while other fully-customized options with all available features can range up to $20,000.
Installation, on average, costs around $1,500, depending on how much work needs to be done to accommodate a new walk-in tub. This may vary if you need to, for example, install a larger water or need other electrical, plumbing or renovation work. Most walk-in tubs will fit in the space previously occupied by a standard tub.
Neither Medicare nor Medicaid will reimburse the cost of a walk-in tub, but there are exceptions in limited circumstances. Many manufacturers and retailers offer discounts for seniors, veterans and others, as well as flexible payment plans. Also, keep in mind that walk-in tubs are tax-deductible if they are purchased for medical reasons.
When you purchase a walk-in tub in Indianapolis, pay attention to the accompanying warranty. These can cover components of the tub differently, or they may be all-inclusive. Some warranties can last as long as you own the tub. As long as you maintain the tub and do the minimal cleaning necessary on a regular basis, your walk-in tub should provide safe bathing for a long time.
Safe Step offers customers a free consultation to learn more about its American-made walk-in tubs. Each is backed by a 14-point quality control inspection and a lowest-price guarantee. The company offers a comprehensive lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects, numerous components and parts and labor. Customers recommend Safe Step, rating its sales staff and the quick, professional installation highly.
Designed for safety, comfort and elegance, Kohler Walk-In Bath has an extra-wide door and ultra-low step-in to make entry almost effortless. Hydrotherapy jets target the spine, legs and feet while back, neck and shoulder surfaces are heated for comfort and warmth. Customer reviews report Kohler sales reps being personable and professional and that installation was smooth.
