Have you ever noticed your parents getting into the bathtub, leaning against the wall with their hands, gasping for breath, and looking scared? It's not just a physical inconvenience, it's also a mental stress. It's heartbreaking to see your loved one like this.

But did you know that, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2 out of every 5 people aged 6 years and older fall in the bathroom every year? And about 80% of these accidents happen just while getting in or out of the bathtub or shower.

These statistics are terrifying, but luckily, there are solutions.

A walk-in bathtub is not just a bathtub, it is a symbol of safety, freedom and peace for your family. It allows parents to bathe independently, reduces your stress and makes the home safer.

But the question is: How do you make sure you’re choosing the right walk-in tub for your parents?

In this guide, I will show you step by step how to choose the best, safest, and most comfortable walk-in bathtub not only for your loved ones, but also for your peace of mind.

Assess Your Parent’s Mobility & Health Needs 

The first and most important step in selecting a walk-in tub is being able to understand the real needs of your loved ones. Every elderly person's physical condition is different. So the same model is not suitable for everyone.

Assess mobility:

• Can your parents still walk freely?
• Do they need to use a cane, walker or wheelchair?
• Are they afraid of climbing stairs or small heights?

If they have limited mobility, it's important to choose a model with a threshold height of less than 4 inches. This makes it easier to get in without having to lift your feet.

Consider health issues:

• If you have arthritis: A heated backrest and hydrotherapy jets help reduce pain.
• If you have back pain: A tall backrest and targeted massage jets for the waist are necessary.
• If you have imbalance: No tub is safe without grab bars and a non-slip floor.

Royal Bath Place Professional Advice:

We recommend the inward-swing door model for small bathrooms. It opens inward, so it doesn't take up space outside. This is the model that 70% of our clients choose — and we install it professionally in the West Palm Beach area.

Remember: Security isn't just a feature, it's a feeling. When your loved one feels safe, they can truly relax.

Measure Your Bathroom Space & Choose the Right Size

The most important thing to do before buying a walk-in bathtub is to take the correct measurements of your bathroom. Because it may happen that you ordered a beautiful tub, but when you get home, you find that the door doesn't open, or the tub doesn't fit.

How to measure?

• Length and Width: Measure the length and width (in inches) of the area where the tub will sit.
• Height: Check for pipes or lights along the ceiling.
• Door opening: Make sure there is enough clearance — where the tub door will open.
• Plumbing Lines: Check that the pipe position of the old tub matches that of the new tub.

Common sizes:

• 30” x 30”: Ideal for small bathrooms
• 32” x 32”: Comfortable space, suitable for most people
• Corner model: For corner placement, saves space

Professional tip: Measure twice, order once.
If you're not sure, get a free in-home assessment from us. We'll come to your home to measure, make recommendations, and show you the best options.

Compare Key Safety Features - Don’t Skip These!

If you think that buying a walk-in tub will make you safe, you are in danger. Safety is not just a name, it depends on the specific features hidden inside the tub. When choosing a tub for your loved one, be sure to check the following features:

Slip-Resistant Surface

The bottom of the tub should be such that the feet do not slip. In all tubs at Royal Bath Place, ADA-approved non-slip flooring is used, which gives good grip even in wet conditions.

Overflow protection

Accidents can occur if water overflows and spills into the bathroom. In our tubs Automatic overflow protection, which pumps excess water elsewhere.

Watertight Door Seal

Water cannot boil over once the door is closed. Our tubs have a double-seal door system, which ensures 100% leak-proofness.

Anti-scald temperature control

There is a risk of skin burns if the hot water suddenly becomes too hot. Our tubs have thermostatic mixing valves, which do not allow the water temperature to exceed 104°F.

Grab bar positioning

It's not just about having grab bars, it's about having them in the right place. We install vertical and horizontal grab bars, which provide support when entering, sitting down, and getting up.

Choose Comfort & Therapeutic Features (Hydrotherapy, Jets & More)

A walk-in tub should not only be safe, it should also be comfortable and help improve health. This is where therapy-based features come in.

Hydrotherapy vs Airtherapy: Which is Better?

Hydrotherapy	Air therapy
Massage with powerful water jets	Massage with soft air bubbles
Reduces back, leg, leg muscles	Gentle on the skin, suitable for sensitive skin
Ideal for arthritis, back pain	Increases relaxation and circulation

Jet Positioning:

• Back Jets: Reduces back and waist pain
• Leg Jets: Reduces leg and knee pain
• Foot Jets: Reduce leg swelling

Additional comfort features:

• Chromotherapy: Colorful LED light calms the mind, helps induce sleep
• Aromatherapy: Mixing essential oils turns the bath into a spa
• Heated Backrest: Eliminates the discomfort of sitting on a cool backrest

Brand Quality:

We carry Kohler, American Standard, and other premium brands of walk-in tubs. We will help you choose the right brand for your budget and needs.

Are walk-in tubs suitable for seniors?”
Yes, because hydrotherapy and heated backrests reduce pain, ease sleep and reduce stress. It's not just a tub — it's a Home therapy centre.

Pick the Right Entry Type & Door Style

A walk-in bathtub door is not just a feature; it is key to your loved one's safe entry and exit. Choosing the wrong door can take up space in the bathroom or make it difficult to use.

Types of main doors:

Door type	Convenience	For whom is it suitable
Inward-swing door	Opens inward, takes up no outside space	Small bathroom, limited space near the door
Outward-swinging door	Opens to the outside, more space inside	Large bathroom with outdoor space
Sliding door	Moves to the side, saves space	In very small bathrooms or corner models
Side Entry	Direct transfer from wheelchair is possible	Wheelchair users

Tips for Royal Bath Place:

We don’t just sell tubs, we also help you choose the right door type for your bathroom layout. Come to our West Palm Beach office or call our team to your home and we’ll see which model will work best for you.

Does Medicare Pay for Walk-In Tubs? 

It's a very important question, and we know you want to know it.

Direct answer: No, Medicare does not generally cover walk-in bathtubs.
Because Medicare covers things that are medically necessary and portable (eg, wheelchairs, home health equipment). A walk-in tub is not covered as it is a permanent installation.

But help can be found in some cases:

• Medicaid: Some states (including Florida) may fund walk-in tubs through Medicaid or their home modification programs.
• VA Benefits: The VA (Veterans Affairs) offers grants for bathroom modifications for US war-torn veterans.
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Some insurance policies include home modification cover.

Are Walk-In Tubs Worth It for Seniors? (Our Honest Take)

Yes, Walk-in tubs are definitely worth it for seniors — but only when it's picked right.

Why is it worth it?

1. Safe bathing:
   Thousands of seniors are injured in bathroom falls each year. Walk-in tubs reduce this risk.
2. Maintaining Independence:
   If your parents can bathe themselves, their self-esteem is maintained. It is very important for mental health.
3. Pain relief:
   Hydrotherapy jets from Kohler or American Standard help reduce arthritis, back pain and leg swelling.
4. Increasing home value:
   According to the National Home Remodeling Survey, walk-in tub installation 60-70% ROI (Return on Investment) on sales gives
5. Family Peace:
   We have seen countless families who say: “We are no longer afraid when mom takes a bath.

Top Brands We Recommend (Kohler, American Standard & More)

Brand quality is very important when choosing a walk-in tub. The safety and comfort of your loved ones depends on it. At Royal Bath Place, we don't just carry any brand — we only offer the best quality, proven brands.

Kohler Walk-In Tubs

• Premium design and build quality
• Powerful hydrotherapy jets that relax back, leg and foot muscles
• Modern look, which enhances the quality of your bathroom
• We are the official Kohler dealer in West Palm Beach

American Standard Walk-In Tubs

• Budget-friendly, but there is no compromise on safety
• Non-slip floors, leak-proof doors and ADA-compliant design
• Easy maintenance and long warranty
• Ideal for families who want good quality at a low cost

Safe Step and other brands

• Safe Step: Hydrotherapy and Safety Focused
• Ella's Bubbles: Comfortable seats and chromotherapy
• We work with all brands — we'll help you choose the right brand for your needs.

Installation & Cost: What to Expect in West Palm Beach

If you think that buying a walk-in tub is the end of the story, the real work begins during installation. Improper installation can lead to leaks, flooding, or safety hazards. That's why professional installation is essential.

Average cost: $3,000 – $10,000+

• Basic model: $3,000 – $5,000
• Mid-range (including hydrotherapy): $5,000 – $7,500
• Premium (Kohler, Custom models): $7,500 – $10,000+

Installation process:

• Time: 1–2 days (depending on model and plumbing modification)
• Worked by a professional, licensed team
• All work included including old tub removal, plumbing, and wall repair

Conclusion

Choosing a walk-in bathtub is not just a buying decision, it's a loving decision for your loved one. It gives them:

• security (no fear reading)
• freedom (Right to bathe by oneself)
• comfort (hydrotherapy, heated backrest)
• Your peace of mind (No more wondering “has mom read today”)

Choosing a walk-in tub isn't just a product,  it's a way to give your parents dignity, safety and comfort.

Royal Bath Place promises:

“We're not just a vendor — we're your Aging-in-Place solutions partner।”

What should be your next step?

1. Visit the West Palm Beach showroom — Watch the live demo
2. Call for free consultation — Our experts will help you
3. Call Now: 561-360-2219
4. Visit Us: 123 Bath & Wellness Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
5. Learn More: https://royalbathplace.com/bathtubs/walk-in-tubs/