Walk-In Bathtubs Kelowna, British Columbia

American Standards Logo
  • American Standard has been in business for 150 years and contrary to its name is very Canadian, with it's head office located in Mississauga, Ontario. They work with directly with Consumers, Seniors, Occupational Therapists, Healthcare Professionals, Builders, Architects, and Facility Managers. Best of all, American Standard is Age Safe Canada certified and Certified Aging in Place Specialists.
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Looking for Walk-in Bathtub For Seniors in Kelowna, Canada? Seniors Bulletin can help!

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Walk-In Bathtub Guide

Seniors Bulletin: Walk-In Bathtubs For Seniors

 senior walkin tub safety

In Canada, walk-in bathtubs are a type of bathtub designed to make getting in and out of the tub easier, particularly for those with mobility or accessibility issues. These tubs have a low step-in threshold, wide door that swings open, and grab bars for added stability and support. Walk-in bathtubs often come with features such as built-in seats, non-slip surfaces, and adjustable jets for hydrotherapy.

The goal of these tubs is to provide a safe and comfortable bathing experience for individuals who may otherwise struggle with traditional bathtubs.

To reduce your risk of falls in the bathroom, a walk-in bath tub may be your solution!

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Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Kelowna

Best Overall

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Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, American Standard is a Canadian company with a 150-year history. They collaborate with a wide range of professionals, including consumers, seniors, healthcare experts, builders, architects, and facility managers. They specialize in manufacturing and installing customized walk-in tubs to meet the unique needs of their clients.

  • Age Safe Canada certified
  • Certified Aging In Place Specialists
  • uL, CSA, ETL certifications and audited each year
4.6/5
kohler logo

Over 140 years of providing engineering excellence and experience, Kohler has built up a history of offering only the highest quality walk-in tubs that rival competition in form, function, and style. Not available everywhere in Canada.

Best For DIY

home depot logo

Home Depot offers several walk-in tubs from different manufacturers. If you are looking for cheaper walk-in tub options, Home Depot is a good place to start. Keep in mind, you will need your own contractors and installers or be a good DIYer.

3.8/5
Guide To Walk-In Bathtubs

What Is A Walk-in Tub?

A walk-in tub is a kind of bathtub with a low threshold or step-in threshold, making it more convenient for individuals in Kelowna with limited mobility to step in and also out of the bath tub safely and securely and conveniently. These bath tubs frequently have built-in safety functions such as grab bars and slip-resistant surfaces, as well as may even have jets for hydrotherapy.

Basically, a walk-in bathtub is a type of bathtub that is designed to provide a safer and more accessible option for bathing, particularly for individuals with limited mobility.

The WEKARE 53 x 27 Compact Walk-In Bathtub
Recommended For

Bathroom Safety: Do I Need A Walk-In BathTub?

Person that might require or find it useful to have a walk-in bathtub are Kelowna people that:

  • Mobility or balance difficulties: If an individual struggles with getting in and out of a typical tub, a walk-in tub might provide a safer as well as more accessible option.
  • Age: Seniors might gain from the safety elements and comfortable style of a walk-in tub.
  • Physical disabilities: If a person has a physical disability that makes traditional bathtubs hard to use, a walk-in bath tub might be a more desirable solution.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: The integrated seat as well as non-slip surface of a walk-in bath tub can give additional comfort and also support for people with joint inflammation or joint pain.
  • Difficulty with bending over or stooping: If a person struggles with bending over or stooping, a walk-in bathtub with a reduced step-in threshold can make getting in and exiting the bathtub a lot easier.
  • Home modifications: If a person’s home has been changed to fit a wheelchair, a walk-in tub can provide a safer as well as a bit more accessible option for bathing.
  • Hydrotherapy: If an individual wants the benefits of hydrotherapy, a walk-in tub with adaptable jets can provide this.
walk-in-tub-safestep
Benefits & Features

Features: Bathtubs With Seats For Seniors

The features related to a walk-in tub can differ being determined by on the particular style and also brand name, however some common elements include:

Low-Threshold Or Step-In Doorway

This allows people with reduced mobility to conveniently go into and get out the bathtub.

Slip-Resistant Surface Area

A textured or non-slip surface area serves to reduce the chances of slips or falls while entering or exiting the bathtub.

Integrated Grab Bars

These accommodate additional assistance as well as stability for entering and out of the tub.

Adaptable Shower Head

A removable or adaptable shower head allows the user to control the trajectory and flow of the bath water while showering.

Hydrotherapy Jets

Some walk in bathtubs come equipped with jets that give a restful and therapeutic massage.

Heated Surfaces

Some walk-in bathtubs include heated surfaces, such as the seat or back rest, which supply included convenience and heat.

Simple Controls

Many walk-in tubs have easy to understand controls, such as digital display screens and also easy buttons, for adjusting the water temperature level as well as flow.

Built-in Seat

A built-in seat offers a comfortable and convenient spot to sit while taking a bath or a shower.

Drain And Overflow

The bathtub ought to have an effectively working drain and overflow to avoid water from overflowing and also causing damage.

Door Seal

A door seal helps manage to keep water inside the bathtub, improving the efficiency of the tub and reducing the risk of water leaks.
These are just some of the most common features of walk-in tubs. Even so, it is essential to properly consider the particular needs and needs of the person when deciding on a tub, as well as to choose a style with features that suit those needs.
Categories

Different Styles Of Walk-In Bathtubs

Walk-in bathtubs can be categorized based on their functions and also style. The following are some of the standard types of walk-in tubs:

Soaking Walk-In Tubs

These are standard walk-in bath tubs that are meant for easy soaking and also relaxation. They typically have a smooth and also comfortable interior, with no jets or other therapeutic components.

Whirlpool Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are outfitted with jets that generate a swirling water current, producing a massage-like experience . They can be beneficial for those with muscular tissue pain or stress.

Air Jet Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are very similar to whirlpool bathtubs but use air jets rather than water jets to create a bubbling massage therapy effect.

Combination Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs combine soaking, whirlpool, and also air jet features in one system, delivering several choices for a relaxing and also therapeutic bathing experience.

Bariatric Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are made to suit larger people or those with mobility difficulties. They are typically wider and deeper than basic walk-in tubs and also may have added safety features, such as reinforced wall surfaces and also extra grab bars.

Shower Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are designed to be used as both a tub and a shower, with an integrated seat, adjustable handheld showerhead, and also a reduced threshold entry.
It is necessary to consider the specific requirements and preferences of the individual when deciding on a walk-in tub, as well as the measurements as well as layout of the washroom, to make sure that a comfortable and also safe showering experience.
Costs

Walk-In Bath Cost

The cost of a walk-in bathtub in Canada can differ largely being dependent on the sizing, building material, features, as well as brand name of the tub. Usually, the cost of a basic walk-in bath tub can range from $2,000 to $7,000, while more extravagant systems with additional functions can cost upwards of $10,000 or more.

It is essential to keep in mind that the cost of a walk-in bath tub will also depend upon the specific needs and demands of the person, along with the costs of installation. It is advised to obtain quotes from multiple companies to compare costs and select the most suitable choice for your budget as well as needs.

Also, it is a good strategy to take into consideration things such as the sturdiness, quality, as well as upkeep needs of the bathtub before making a decision.

British Columbia Healthcare Facts

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors in Canada. In 2017, approximately one in three seniors aged 65 and over reported falling at least once in the previous 12 months. Falls can result in serious injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and hospitalization, and can lead to decreased mobility and independence.

It’s important for seniors and their caregivers to take steps to prevent falls and ensure a safe living environment, including installing safety devices such as grab bars, non-slip mats, and walk-in bathtubs. Regular exercise and maintaining good physical health can also help reduce the risk of falls.

Pros

Advantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors

A walk-in bathtub can offer several advantages for seniors, including:

Improved Safety

Walk-in bath tubs are made with safety measure features, such as low-threshold or step-in thresholds, slip-resistant surface areas, integrated grab bars, and adjustable shower heads, that can help minimize the chance of falls as well as accidents.

Increased Accessibility

A walk-in tub allows people with limited mobility to conveniently go into and exit the tub, rendering it a more accessible option for elderly people.

Relaxation And Comfort

Many walk-in tubs are outfitted with hydrotherapy jets, warmed surface areas, and built-in seats, which can offer a relaxing as well as therapeutic experience for seniors.

Increased Hygiene

A walk-in tub can make it more convenient for elderly people to maintain their personal hygiene, as they do not have to step over a high tub wall to enter and exit the bathtub.

Increased independence

By offering a safer and more accessible option when it comes to washing, a walk-in tub can help seniors manage their independence and also dignity.

Increased Blood Flow

The warm water and hydrotherapy jets can strengthen blood flow as well as serve to alleviate soreness and stiffness in the muscle tissues as well as joints.

Minimized Stress and Anxiety

Bathing in a walk-in tub can be a calming as well as relaxing time, that can help in reducing stress as well as tension levels for elderly people.
These are just some of the advantages that a walk-in bath tub can provide for elderly people. Regardless, it is necessary to properly look at the specific needs and also requirements of the individual when choosing a tub, as well as to decide on a style that satisfies those requirements.
Cons

Disadvantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors

While walk-in bathtubs can offer several benefits for seniors, there are also some potential disadvantages, including:

Costs

Walk-in bathtubs may be much more expensive than conventional bath tubs, that can make them difficult for some elderly people to have the means for.

Room Requirements

Walk-in bath tubs are frequently larger than standard bathtubs, which can be an issue in case that the washroom is small-sized or has restricted area.

Installation Difficulties

Setting up a walk-in bathtub can be much more complex than setting up a conventional tub, as well as may need considerable redesign work in the room.

Maintenance Requirements

Walk-in bathtubs frequently have more functions as well as moving parts than standard bath tubs, which can make them more difficult to manage and also clean.

Limited Options

There are fewer options available for walk-in bathtubs compared to traditional bathtubs, which can make it more challenging to find a model that meets the specific needs and requirements of the individual.

Time Required For Filling And Draining The Tub

It can take longer to fill and drain a walk-in bathtub than a traditional bathtub, which can be an issue for seniors who have limited time or patience.

Water Usage

Walk-in bathtubs often require more water to fill than traditional bathtubs, which can lead to higher water bills and be more environmentally impactful.

These are some of the disadvantages of walk-in bathtubs for seniors. However, it is important to carefully consider the specific needs and requirements of the individual and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a walk-in bathtub before making a decision.

Buying Guide

What To Look For When Purchasing A Walk In Bath Tub?

When purchasing a walk-in tub, it’s important to think about a variety of essential factors to be certain that you choose the most ideal walk-in tub for your needs: These are a few of the essential factors to consider when acquiring a walk-in bath tub. It’s important to meticulously research study as well as contrast different products and brand names to discover the one that best satisfies your demands, budget plan, and preferences.

Safety Features

Consider features such as slip-resistant surface areas, built-in grab bars, and a low step-in height to make sure maximum safety.

Size

Make sure that the walk-in bath tub you decide on will be accommodated in your washroom as well as is the ideal dimension for your requirements.

Design

There are a number of different styles of walk-in tubs available in the market, including soaking bathtubs, whirlpool tubs, and also air jets. Consider the style that best satisfies your requirements and preferences.

Building Material

Walk-in bathtubs are usually made from fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain. Each material has its individual benefits and also disadvantages, so it is essential to explore and compare to identify the one that best meets your requirements.

Price

Walk-in tubs can range in price from several hundred to a number of thousand dollars, depending upon the brand, design, and also functions. It’s important to establish a budget plan and compare costs to locate the most effective value.

Warranty

Look for a walk-in tub with a warranty that offers adequate coverage and defense.

Setup

Take into consideration the installment requirements and also any prospective remodelling job needed for the walk-in bathtub. Some models might need expert installation, while others may be created for do it yourself installation.

Buying Guide

Legal And Construction Requirements For Walk-In Bathtubs In Canada

The legal requirements for walk-in bathtubs in Canada can vary based on the province or territory, but some common regulations include:

  1. Building Code: Walk-in bathtubs must meet the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada and the local building codes in each province.
  2. Plumbing Code: The installation of a walk-in bathtub must meet the requirements of the National Plumbing Code of Canada and the local plumbing codes in each province.
  3. Accessibility standards: Walk-in bathtubs must comply with accessibility standards such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) B651 standard for accessible bathing facilities in the home.
  4. Product safety standards: Walk-in bathtubs must meet safety standards such as the CSA B45.5 standard for walk-in bathtubs.

Funding For Walk-In Bath Tubs In Kelowna

Provincial

The BC RAHA program is now accepting applications. BC RAHA is allocated on a first come, first served basis with priority given to complete applications. The program will close on March 31, 2023, or sooner if funds have been exhausted.

Overview

The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) program provides financial help in the form of rebates to eligible low-income households to complete home adaptations for independent living. A lifetime maximum amount of $17,500 applies.

Basic Eligibility

Homeowners have different program requirements than landlord or tenants. There is an application for Landlord/Tenant, and a separate and completely different application for Homeowners. Requirements are also different. Please see website for full details.

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Overview

Funds a range of new and used equipment and will consider even the most obscure devices if they will assist an individual in their quality of life and personal mobility. Examples of the most frequently funded equipment include:

  • Power wheelchairs
  • Manual Wheelchairs
  • Driver’s rehab lessons
  • Custom orthotics
  • Specialized wheelchair seating systems
  • Ramps
  • Portable lift system
  • Scooters
  • Recreation therapy opportunities
  • Walkers
  • Assistive technology devices (e.g. Dragon speaking software)

Basic Eligibility

Awards are considered by a combination of factors. Approved applications typically demonstrate a severe need, an inability to acquire the needed equipment through other means and must meet financial and medical qualifications.

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Overview

Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP) provides Canadians with health equipment on a donation basis.

  • Long Term Program
  • Advanced Short Term Program
  • Basic Short Term Program
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Overview

In British Columbia, this supplement allows low income seniors to supplement their home owner grant if it’s been reduced or eliminated because of the high assessed value of their principal residence.

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Overview

Life After 60 steps its up where health care ends, supporting Senior’s in BC with Medical Priorities. It’s what we’re passionate about and we anticipate to cover a wide spectrum of support.

Funding from Life After 60 helps to cover costs for medical priorities such as: dental care, eye glasses, hearing aids, mobility devices and much more.

Eligibility

Funding is based on financial needs and family demographics.

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Provincial Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Vancouver Foundation grants to hundreds of charities and non-profits in BC every year. Their vision is to create healthy, vibrant, and livable communities, that is focused on supporting projects that address the root causes of important issues. The Vancouver Fund may not provide funds directly for your needs but may provide funding for other charities that may be suitable. Subscribe to their mailing list for future grands and funds.

Basic Eligibility

Not applicable.

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Federal

Overview

The HATC is a non-refundable tax credit for eligible home renovation or alteration expenses that allow a qualifying individual to gain access to, or to be mobile or functional within the eligible dwelling or reduce the risk of harm to the qualifying individual within the dwelling or in gaining access to the dwelling.

Eligibility

  • Must be 65 years or older, or
  • Medical practitioner must fill out and certify that you have a severe and prolonged impairment and must describe its effects on you
  • Up to $10,000/Year

View website

Overview METC is a non-refundable tax credit for a claimed medical expenses under a qualifying and eligible list.  Both the METC and the HATC can be claimed for the same expense. Eligibility
  • Eligible medical expenses for yourself, spouse/common-law partner & dependent children (Stairlift needs doctor’s prescription)
View website

Overview

The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit in Canada for individuals who have a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental function. An impairment qualifies as prolonged if it is expected to or has lasted at least 12 months.

While this will not directly support any home accessibility equipment or medical alert systems, if eligible, it can provide you with a maximum credit of $8,870 for an adult, which can help towards those needs.

Basic Eligibility

A medical practitioner must certify you as eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. They must state you have a severe and prolonged impairment in 1 of the categories, significant limitations in 2 or more categories, or receive therapy to support a vital function.

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Canada Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Ceridian Cares provides grants for the following types of needs:

  • Clothing and Footwear: Seasonal clothing, boots, shoes, children’s clothing, work clothing, outerwear
  • Food and Basic Household Needs: Food, blankets, mattresses, cookware/dishes, small appliances, towels, diapers, cribs, personal hygiene
  • Medical Devices and Therapies: Prosthetics, eyewear, medical equipment, home adjustments for barrier free living, respite services, braille books, short-term counselling services, physiotherapy
  • Personal Development and Recreation: Children’s programs, camp, art supplies, books, athletic programs

Please note: These are examples only and the list is not exhaustive. Grants typically range from $200 to $4000 to a maximum grant of $5000.

Basic Eligibility

Applicant must be

  • 18 years of age or older
  • A Canadian resident
  • An individual or family in need of financial assistance related to the types of items supported by Ceridian Cares

Please note: Ceridian Cares will not provide grants to the same recipient in consecutive years.

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Overview Easter Seals is Canada’s largest local provider of programs, services, and issues-leadership and development for the disability community. Each province has their own funding. It is recommend that you check your local province’s brand for specific funding opportunities. Basic Eligibility Not Applicable. View website

Overview

The Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence Program (HASI) is a Canadian government-funded program that provides financial assistance for age-related home adaptations to improve the quality of life and independence of First Nation or First Nation members living on reserve who are 65 years old or older and have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging. The program helps with necessary adaptations to homes to maintain independence and improve quality of life. The total household income of the senior occupant must also be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance. The program is designed to help seniors assess their own unique circumstances and identify the types of difficulties seniors can experience in the home and describes adaptations to overcome these difficulties.

Basic Eligibility

  • The applicant must be 65 years or older.
  • The applicant must be a First Nation or Inuit person living on reserve.
  • The applicant must have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging.
  • The total household income of the senior occupant must be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance.
  • The applicant must own or rent the home in which the adaptations are to be made.

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Overview March of Dimes Canada is an organization that provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities throughout the country. March of Dimes Canada Assistive Devices Program assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices that increase their mobility and functional independence. The Program can help to buy, repair and maintain a wide variety of mobility or assistive equipment. The Program may also have contact information or resources to assist you in locating additional funding sources. Basic Eligibility Available for low-income individuals & families. It is suitable for ongoing/recurring disability that is anticipated to last more than one year. The disability results in restrictions in activities of daily living. Max Funding Up to $15,000. Some devices that may qualify for funding include:
  • Manual and Power Wheelchairs
  • Scooters
  • Replacement Batteries
  • Walkers
  • Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO)
  • Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
  • Home and Bath Aids
  • Floor Patient Lifts
  • Basic Aids for Daily Living
  • Repairs to Existing​ Devices
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Overview Organization dedicated to raising awareness and educating people about neuromuscular disease. Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MD. Assistive devices Mobility devices Home modifications Eligibility Maximum contribution per item: $2,640 Client minimum contribution: $200.00 – Equipment costing less than $200 is not eligible – You must be a registered client of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Muscular Dystrophy Canada will not issue reimbursements. Be sure to complete the application process and receive approval from our office, prior to purchasing the item. View website

Overview

Provides services to people with multiple sclerosis and their families and funds research to find the cause and cure for this disease.

Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MS.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Funding eligibility varies from province to province – check the website for more information.

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Overview

The Veterans Independence Program for primary caregivers provides annual tax-free funding to help cover the cost for services such as grounds maintenance and housekeeping. This program helps the primary caregivers – of a Veteran who was receiving the Veterans Independence Program and who has now moved to long term care or is deceased – remain in their home and community.

This program does not replace other federal, provincial or municipal programs. Instead, it is intended to work with those programs to help meet your needs.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

To qualify for either housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance, the Veteran must have been eligible for that service through the Veterans Independence Program and has now moved to long term care or is deceased.

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