For seniors aging in place, the bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home. Every year, over 235,000 older adults visit the ER due to bathroom falls — most around the tub. While traditional bathtubs have been the norm, walk-in tubs are emerging as a safer, more accessible alternative. But are they truly safer? And what about the risks? In this 2025 expert guide, Royal Bath Place, a trusted walk-in tub provider, breaks down the real safety differences, common myths, installation insights, and which option is best for your loved one’s mobility, safety, and independence.

Why Bathroom Safety Matters for Seniors

As we age, it becomes more difficult to balance, see, and maintain muscle strength. In such a situation, the bathroom becomes the most dangerous place in the house. Every year about 2.35 lakh elderly people are hospitalized just because of slipping in the bathroom — most of them near or in the tub.

According to the Centres for Disease Control (CDC), 80% of falls in the elderly occur in the bathroom. The main reason for this is traditional bathtubs. To enter them, one has to step over the 18 to 24 inch high wall. This is impossibly difficult for many seniors, especially those with walking problems or arthritis.

Another big risk is hot water. Skin becomes very sensitive as we age. So sudden hot water can cause burning or scalding.

Moreover, many elderly people bathe alone. If one slips or feels sick while bathing, there is a risk of being stuck for too long. If no one is there, it can create a life-threatening situation.

So it goes without saying that just putting a bathmat or grab bar doesn't solve the problem. The real solution is to make the bathroom safe, especially the bathing area. And this is where the role of a walk-in tub is essential.

How Walk-In Tubs Improve Safety for Senior

Bathing is not as easy as it used to be with age. But by using a walk-in tub, you can give your loved one back comfort, comfort and safety. Royal Bath Place's high-quality walk-in tubs are not only easy to get in, but also designed to reduce risks such as imbalance, slipping and hot water burns. Let's see what features make them ideal for seniors.

1. Low height entrance (no high walls)

Getting into a standard bathtub requires stepping over walls 18 to 24 inches high, which is impossibly difficult and dangerous for seniors. On the other hand, Walk-in tubs only have an entry height of 2-4 inches. As a result, you can easily lift your feet and enter without losing your balance. In all models of Royal Bath Place, low-height entrance and Flat floor design are provided, which is safer and more comfortable for the elderly.

2. Built-in seat and lockable door

In a walk-in tub, you step in first, then close the door and fill it up. In this, there is no risk of getting feet wet. Stay inside. You can take a bath sitting on the built-in seat, will not need to stand. And under the seat Anti-slip textured surface there is less chance of slipping while sitting or getting up.

3. Anti-slip flooring and grab bars

Underneath every walk-in tub Anti-slip textured base is provided, which gives enough motor underfoot even in wet conditions. Additionally, dual grab bars (vertical and horizontal) come standard on every model, providing support when entering, sitting, and getting up. For those who need more support, there is the option of an ADA-approved support rail. Explore additional bathroom safety bars for enhanced protection.

4. Protection from hot water and temperature control

Elderly skin is very sensitive. Sudden application of hot water can cause burns. In the walk-in tub at Royal Bath Place Thermostatic mixing valve is used, which keeps the water temperature stable and stops sudden hot water. Maximum temperature 104°F (about 40°C), which is safe and comfortable.

5. Therapeutic Hydrotherapy Jets (Additional Benefits)

Not just a bath, but in the Royal Bath Place's walk-in tub Hydrotherapy jets, you will get muscle relaxation therapy. It helps in arthritis, muscle pain, stroke rehab and improves blood circulation. In regular use improves balance and mobility, which plays an important role in preventing falls. Learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy walk-in tubs for seniors.

Are Walk-In Tubs Always Safer? Common Risks & Myths

Yes, walk-in tubs are much safer for seniors — but Conditionally. Like every technology, it has some limitations. But with proper design, proper features and professional installation, these risks can be almost completely eliminated. Let's find out what the risks are and how Royal Bath Place addresses them.

Hazard 1: Getting stuck in water (inward opening door)

Many walk-in tub doors opens inwards. If the tub is full of water and the user feels sick, the water pressure makes it very difficult to open the door. This increases the risk of getting stuck.

Solution:

• Outward-Swinging Door: This feature is available as an optional feature on some Royal Bath Place models, allowing for quick exit in an emergency.
• Emergency Release Lever: For opening from the inside on each model Emergency release lever provided as standard.
• Quick Drain System: 90% water only In 2 minutes empties, which helps in emergencies.

Check out why choose a whirlpool walk-in bathtub for more on safe features.

Risk 2: Takes longer to fill and empty

To fill the walk-in tub 7 to 10 minutes and be empty 5 to 8 minutes takes time Sitting for long periods of time can make you feel cold or sick, especially in people with low blood pressure.

Solution:

• High-Flow Pump: All tubs at Royal Bath Place High-flow pump is installed, which fills and empties water quickly.
• Heated seats and air dryer: Some premium models have it hot seats and an air dryer, so that there is no need to stay wet after bathing. It promotes both health and comfort.

Compare options in Jacuzzi vs air bubble bathtubs.

Risk 3: Improper Installation = Security Compromise

If a walk-in tub is installed incorrectly — such as poor plumbing, uneven floors, or leaking ceilings — it can cause water damage, fungus, or slipping. Security features also don't work if not installed.

Solution:

• Professional Installation Only: Royal Bath Place never recommends DIY installation.
• Free In-Home Assessment + Certified Installer: We come to your home in West Palm Beach to measure, check the plumbing, and install safely with a certified technician.

Can Traditional Tubs Be Made Safer?

Many people think that just a few modifications to an old tub can make it safer. Yes, it can be made somewhat safer — but the main risk still remains: stepping over high walls. Below are some common modifications and their limitations:

Safety Modifications for Traditional Tubs:

Non-slip mat	Reduces slips	Can shift or wear out
Bath seat	Avoid standing	Still requires high step-in
Handheld shower	Wash while seated	Doesn’t fix entry/exit risk
Grab bars	Support	Must be wall-anchored properly
Threshold ramp	Easier step	Still 12–18" high

Expert Insight: "Modifications help, but they don’t eliminate the core risk: the high lip of a traditional tub." — Royal Bath Place Accessibility Consultant, West Palm Beach

Walk-In Tub vs Traditional Tub – Safety Comparison Table

Entry Height	2–4 inches	18–24 inches
Built-in Seat	Yes	(add-on)
Grab Bars	Standard	(must install)
Non-Slip Floor	Textured	(mat required)
Door Safety	Lock + Emergency Release	N/A
Fill/Drain Time	7–10 min	2–3 min
Installation	Professional	Standard
Cost	$3,000–$8,000	$500–$1,500
Best For	Seniors with mobility issues	Independent seniors

What Do Seniors & Caregivers Say? (Real Feedback)

Experience speaks louder than words. Many seniors and their families have regained safety, comfort and comfort by using Royal Bath Place's walk-in tubs. Check out some of the original comments here:

"My mother fell twice in the previous tub. After Royal Bath Place's walk-in tub was installed, she was able to bathe herself again."
— Linda, West Palm Beach

"I was worried about the door, but seeing the emergency release lever inside gave me a sense of security."
— James, 78 years

"This hydrotherapy works better than my arthritis — better than medicine."
— Dorothy, 82 years

These aren't just reviews — they are A story of safety, comfort and pride. We share them because trust is built on truth.

Why Choose Royal Bath Place in West Palm Beach?

We don't just sell tubs — we are helping seniors live safely.

Our advantages:

• Free In-Home Assessment: I will advise you at your home without pressure.
• Certified Installers: No leaks, no damage — 100% safe installation.
• Lifetime Support: We are there even after installation, from maintenance to any help.
• Local Expert: As a West Palm Beach resident, we understand your needs — fast.
• Premium Brands: Safe Step, Kohler, Jacuzzi — walk-in tubs from trusted brands with us.
• Financing facilities: Only a monthly 99 starting from — buy without financial stress.

Call today for a free consultation:561-360-2219
Visit the West Palm Beach showroom to see and test models for yourself!