Walk-In Bathtubs North Bay, Ontario

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 North Bay, Canada? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Bathroom Safety In Your Own Home.

Walk-In Bathtub Guide

Walk-In Bathtubs: What You Need To Know

seniors installation overview

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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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 bathtub is a sort of bath tub with a low threshold or step-in entrance, making it simpler for people with limited mobility to step in and also out of the bath tub securely and easily. These bath tubs frequently have integrated safety components like grab bars and slip-resistant surfaces, and 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?

Individual who may require or find it useful to have a walk-in bath tub are people that:

  • Mobility or balance issues: If an individual have problem with getting in and out of a typical bath tub, a walk-in bath tub might provide a safer as well as more accessible solution.
  • Age: Elderly people may benefit from the safety features and comfortable style of a walk-in bath tub.
  • Physical disabilities: If a person has a physical disability that makes traditional tubs difficult to utilize, a walk-in bath tub may be a more desirable option.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: The integrated seat and also non-slip surface of a walk-in bath tub can provide additional comfort and also support for people with arthritis or joint pain.
  • Trouble with bending over or stooping: If an individual deal with bending over or stooping, a walk-in tub with a low step-in threshold can make getting in and exiting the tub much easier.
  • House customizations: If an individual’s house has been customized to integrate a wheelchair, a walk-in tub can provide a safer and a bit more accessible option for showering.
  • Hydrotherapy: If an individual wants the advantages of hydrotherapy, a walk-in bath tub with adaptable jets can provide this.
walk-in-tub-safestep
Benefits & Features

Features: Bathtubs With Seats For Seniors

The features of a walk-in tub can differ depending on the particular style and also manufacturer, but some common components consist of:

Low-Threshold Or Step-In Doorway

This makes it possible for people with limited mobility to effortlessly get in and get out the bathtub.

Slip-Resistant Surface

A textured or non-slip surface area serves to reduce the chances of slips and falls when getting in or exiting the tub.

Built-In Grab Bars

These offer additional assistance and sturdiness for getting in and exiting the tub.

Adaptable Showerhead

A detachable or adaptable shower head enables the individual to manage the direction and flow of the bath water while bathing.

Hydrotherapy Jets

Some walk-in tubs come outfitted with jets that give a relaxing and therapeutic massage.

Heated Surfaces

A number of walk in bath tubs have heated surfaces, such as the seat or back-rest, which provide included convenience and also warmth.

Simple Controls

Many walk-in bathtubs have easy to use controls, such as electronic displays and easy buttons, for adjusting the water temperature and also flow.

Integrated Seat

A built-in seat delivers a comfortable as well as convenient spot to be seated while taking a bath or a shower.

Drain And Overflow

The bath tub must have an effectively operating drainpipe and overflow to prevent water from overflowing and triggering damages.

Door Seal

A door seal helps keep water inside the bath tub, enhancing the effectiveness of the tub and also decreasing the chance of water leaks.
These are some of the most usual features of walk-in tubs. However, it is essential to properly take into consideration the certain requirements as well as requirements of the person when choosing a bath tub, and to decide on a design with elements that accommodate those needs.
Categories

Different Styles Of Walk-In Tubs

Walk-in tubs can be classified based on their features and model. The following are a few of the popular styles of walk-in bath tubs:

Soaking Walk-In Bathtubs

These are standard walk-in tubs that are meant for basic soaking as well as relaxation. They often have a smooth and comfortable interior, without any jets or various other therapeutic attributes.

Whirlpool Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are equipped with jets that create a whirling water, 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 similar to whirlpool bathtubs however work with air jets as opposed to water jets to make a bubbling massage therapy effect.

Combo Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs incorporate soaking, whirlpool, and also air jet components in one unit, offering several choices for a relaxing and also therapeutic showering experience.

Bariatric Walk-In Bathtubs

These walk-in bathtubs are created to suit larger people or those with mobility challenges. They are often wider as well as much deeper than basic walk-in bathtubs as well as may have extra safety functions, such as reinforced walls and added grab bars.

Shower Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are built to be made use of as both a bath tub and a shower, with an integrated seat, adaptable hand held showerhead, and also a reduced threshold doorway.
It is important to consider the specific requirements and preferences of the user when selecting a walk-in bathtub, along with the measurements and layout of the bathroom, to make sure a comfortable and safe showering experience.
Costs

Walk-In Bath Cost

The cost of a walk-in bathtub in Canada can differ largely depending on the overall size, building material, components, and brand of the tub. Typically, the cost of a standard walk-in bath tub can run from $2,000 to $7,000, although more custom styles with extra functions can be priced at upwards of $10,000 or higher.

It is essential to note that the price of a walk-in tub will additionally depend on the individual demands and also needs of the individual, as well as the cost of install. It is recommended to get estimates from multiple companies to compare costs as well as find the best solution for your finances and needs.

In addition, it is a good strategy to consider variables such as the durability, quality, and upkeep needs of the tub before deciding.

Ontario 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 tubs are constructed with safety measure features, such as low-threshold or step-in thresholds, slip-resistant surfaces, built-in grab bars, and adaptable shower heads, which can help minimize the chance of falls and incidents.

Increased Accessibility

A walk-in bath tub enables individuals with reduced mobility to conveniently go into and go out the bathtub, rendering it a more accessible option for elderly people.

Relaxation And Comfort

Many walk-in tubs are supplied with hydrotherapy jets, heated surfaces, and integrated seats, which can supply a relaxing and restorative experience for seniors.

Increased Hygiene

A walk-in bathtub can make it easier for elderly people to maintain their individual hygiene, as they do not have to step over a high tub side to get in and out of the tub.

Increased independence

By offering a much safer and much more accessible alternative for bathing, a walk-in bath tub can help seniors manage their autonomy as well as self-esteem.

Improved Blood Circulation

The warmer water and hydrotherapy jets can strengthen circulation and also serve to ease pain and stiffness in the muscular tissues and also joints.

Minimized Stress and Anxiousness

Bathing in a walk-in bath tub can be a comforting as well as peaceful experience, which can help in reducing stress and also tension levels for elderly people.
These are some of the benefits that a walk-in bathtub can provide for seniors. However, it is necessary to carefully look at the unique needs and conditions of the individual when choosing a tub, and to pick a model that complies with those needs.
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 bath tubs can be much more pricy than traditional tubs, which can make them problematical for some individuals to afford.

Space Requirements

Walk-in bath tubs are frequently larger than conventional bathtubs, which may be a complication in case that the washroom is small or has limited area.

Install Challenges

Installing a walk-in tub can be more complicated than putting in a conventional bathtub, and also may require extensive renovation work in the washroom.

Maintenance Requirements

Walk-in bathtubs often have more elements and moving components than standard tubs, which can make them more difficult to manage as well as 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 Consider When Purchasing A Walk In Bath Tub?

When investing in a walk-in tub, it is essential to take into consideration a variety of key variables to be sure that you decide on the best product for your needs: These are some of the crucial elements to consider when purchasing a walk-in tub. It is essential to meticulously research study and also contrast various items and also brand names to find the one that ideal fulfills your requirements, spending plan, as well as choices.

Safety Functions

Search for features such as slip-resistant surfaces, built-in grab bars, as well as a minimal step-in height to ensure maximum safety.

Dimension

Ensure that the walk-in tub you decide on will be accommodated in your washroom and is the proper dimension for your requirements.

Style

There are several different styles of walk-in bathtubs available, including soaking bathtubs, whirlpool bathtubs, and air jets. Select the design that best suits your requirements and preferences.

Material

Walk-in tubs are typically made of fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain. Each component has its individual benefits and also disadvantages, so it is essential to research and review to identify the one that best complies with your requirements.

Rate

Walk-in tubs can vary in cost from numerous hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand name, style, as well as attributes. It’s important to set a budget plan and contrast rates to discover the very best value.

Guarantee

Search for a walk-in bath tub with a guarantee that uses appropriate coverage and protection.

Installment

Think about the installation needs as well as any type of possible renovation job needed for the walk-in bathtub. Some designs may require professional installation, while others may be designed 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 North Bay

Provincial

Overview

Government program that provides support and funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities. Provides access to assistive devices that meet individuals’ basic needs.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Ontario residents with a valid Ontario Health Card who have a physical disability of 6 months or longer.

ADP will not pay for equipment available under the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) or to Group “A” Veterans for their pensioned conditions.

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Overview

Income and employment support to help people with disabilities live as independently as possible.

Eligibility

Your eligibility for ODSP depends on medical and financial circumstances. Find out what information we look at when deciding your eligibility, and how much you can earn and keep in assets while being on ODSP. Learn how these affect your income support and eligibility on ODSP.

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Overview

OW is a social assistance program that provides money and help finding employment.

Basic Eligibility

Individuals may be eligible for OW if:

  • Live in Ontario
  • Need money right away to help pay for food and housing costs
  • Willing to take part in activities that will help you find a job

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Overview

In Ontario, Seniors can make their homes safer and more accessible with the help of this new tax credit in 2021 & 2022.

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Effective tax year 2023, the Seniors’ home safety tax credit was eliminated.

Overview

Seniors who are low-to-moderate income senior, you may be eligible for up to $500 back on your property taxes.

Eligibility

Ontario seniors, who are 64 years of age or older, who paid Ontario property tax for the year and owned and occupied their principal residence may qualify for this grant amount. Some income requirements also need to be met.

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Overview

Ontario government agency that provides compensation for injured workers. WSIB may provide funding for the following:

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Client may be eligible for WSIB if they had a work-related injury/disease. May be eligible for funding for assistive/mobility devices.

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Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Equipment loan pool and may provide partial assistance with funding for equipment for those with ALS.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Applicants must be registered with ALS Ontario to qualify for assistance Proof of Income required (CRA Notice of Assessment)

 

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Overview

May provide assistance with funding for medical equipment or renovations.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Individuals with spinal cord injury may be eligible for funding.

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Overview

Provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario. Possible maximum of $3,000 for all equipment/service requests per client. Batteries, repairs and replacement parts are not funded.

  • Mobility Equipment
  • Accessibility Equipment
  • Assistive Equipment ie. Bathing Toileting Equipment

Basic Eligibility

  • Parents must attempt to access all other funding sources first.
  • Funded items must be authorized by a healthcare professional.

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Overview

You could get money to help with the cost of making your home and vehicle more accessible if you or your child has a disability that restricts mobility.

Eligibility

The program is available to permanent residents of Ontario who live with a substantial disability that impacts their mobility and daily function, and who can’t afford the modifications they need to maximize their independence.

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Overview

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) of the March of Dimes assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices to increase their mobility and functional independence.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

  • 19 years of age or older
  • Has an ongoing physical limitation that requires the use of an assistive device
  • In financial need (refer to the Income Eligibility chart)
  • A permanent resident of Ontario

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Overview

Organization’s mission is that older adults with a developmental disability have the same rights to support and services as all older Ontarians.

  • Home modifications

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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

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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)
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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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