Walk-In Bathtubs St Catharines, Ontario

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  • 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 St Catharines, Canada? Seniors Bulletin can help!
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Walk-In Bathtub Guide

Walk-In Bathtubs: What You Need To Know

seniors safe tub

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 tub is a sort of tub with a low threshold or step-in entrance, making it more convenient for people with reduced mobility to step in as well as out of the tub safely and securely and with ease. These bath tubs typically have built-in safety features such as grab bars and slip-resistant surfaces, and may additionally 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 that might need or find it useful to have a walk-in bathtub are people who:

  • Mobility or balance issues: If an individual deal with getting in and out of a traditional bathtub, a walk-in bathtub might provide a safer and also more accessible option.
  • Age: Seniors may gain from the safety elements and comfortable style of a walk-in bath tub.
  • Physical disabilities: If a person has a physical disability that makes standard tubs problematic to utilize, a walk-in tub may be a better solution.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: The integrated seat as well as non-slip surface of a walk-in bath tub can provide added comfort and also support for people with joint inflammation or joint problem.
  • Trouble with bending over or stooping: If an individual struggles with bending over or stooping, a walk-in tub with a reduced step-in threshold can make entering and out of the tub a lot easier.
  • Home customizations: If a person’s home has been customized to accommodate a wheelchair, a walk-in bathtub can provide a safer and a bit more accessible option for bathing.
  • Hydrotherapy: If a person wants the advantages of hydrotherapy, a walk-in tub with adjustable jets can offer 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 manufacturer, however some usual features include:

Low-Threshold Or Step-In Doorway

This enables people with limited mobility to conveniently get in and exit the tub.

Slip-Resistant Surface Area

A textured or non-slip surface area helps protect against slips or falls when entering or exiting the tub.

Built-In Grab Bars

These accommodate extra assistance and sturdiness for entering and exiting the bath tub.

Adaptable Shower Head

A removable or adjustable shower head enables the individual to regulate the trajectory and outflow of the bath water while bathing.

Hydrotherapy Jets

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

Heated Surfaces

Some walk in bath tubs have heated surfaces, such as the seat or back-rest, which supply added comfort and also warmth.

Easy-To-Use Controls

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

Integrated Seat

A built-in seat provides a comfortable as well as convenient area to sit while taking a bath or a shower.

Drain And Overflow

The tub ought to have a correctly working drainpipe and overflow to stop water from overflowing as well as triggering damage.

Door Seal

A door seal serves to manage to keep water within the bathtub, improving the effectiveness of the tub and minimizing the risk of water leaks.
These are some of the most usual components of walk-in bathtubs. However, it is essential to thoroughly consider the certain requirements as well as requirements of the individual when choosing a tub, as well as to decide on a model with elements that accommodate those needs.
Categories

Different Styles Of Walk-In Tubs

Walk-in tubs can be classified based on their functions and also style. Listed here are a few of the popular forms of walk-in bathtubs:

Soaking Walk-In Bathtubs

These are basic walk-in bathtubs that are built for easy soaking as well as leisure. They often have a smooth as well as comfortable interior, with no jets or various other therapeutic features.

Whirlpool Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are equipped with jets that generate a whirling water current, generating a massage-like experience . Whirlpool walk-in tubs can be beneficial for those with muscle tissue strain or stress.

Air Jet Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are very similar to whirlpool tubs yet use air jets as opposed to water jets to produce a bubbling massage therapy effect.

Combination Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs integrate soaking, whirlpool, as well as air jet features in one product, using many alternatives for a relaxing and also therapeutic bathing experience.

Bariatric Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are made to fit larger or taller people or those with mobility difficulties. They are typically wider as well as much deeper than regular walk-in bath tubs and might have additional safety features, such as reinforced walls and also added grab bars.

Shower Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are designed to be utilized as both a tub and also a shower, with a built-in seat, adjustable hand held showerhead, and also a low threshold entry.
It is necessary to take into consideration the specific needs and preferences of the user when choosing a walk-in bath tub, along with the measurements and also configuration of the bathroom, to make sure that a comfortable and safe showering experience.
Costs

Walk-In Bath Cost

The cost of a walk-in tub in Canada can differ largely depending on the dimension, building material, components, and also brand name of the tub. On average, the cost of a basic walk-in bath tub can range from $2,000 to $7,000, although more extravagant models with added capabilities can come to upwards of $10,000 or more.

It is essential to note that the price of a walk-in tub will also depend on the specific needs and also needs of the individual, as well as the fee of install. It is recommended to get estimates from multiple suppliers to compare prices and also select the most suitable solution for your finances as well as requirements.

Additionally, it is a good idea to think about factors such as the sturdiness, quality, as well as maintenance requirements of the bath tub prior to making a decision.

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:

Increased Safety

Walk-in tubs are made with safety measure benefits, including low-threshold or step-in entrances, slip-resistant surfaces, built-in grab bars, as well as adjustable shower heads, that can help decrease the chance of falls as well as incidents.

Increased Accessibility

A walk-in bathtub allows people with reduced mobility to easily go into and exit the tub, rendering it a more accessible choice for seniors.

Relaxation And Comfort

Many walk-in bath tubs are equipped with hydrotherapy jets, heated surfaces, and also integrated seats, which can offer a relaxing as well as healing experience for the elderly.

Increased Hygiene

A walk-in tub can make it simpler for seniors to manage their individual hygiene, as they do not have to step over a high tub wall to get in and exit the bathtub.

Increased Personal Freedom

By providing a much safer as well as more accessible solution when it comes to bathing, a walk-in bath tub can allow seniors maintain their autonomy as well as self-esteem.

Strengthened Blood Circulation

The warmer water and hydrotherapy jets can improve circulation and serve to ease soreness as well as stiffness in the muscle tissues as well as joints.

Reduced Stress and Anxiousness

Bathing in a walk-in bathtub can be a calming as well as stress-free experience, which can help in reducing stress as well as anxiety levels for elderly people.
These are some of the advantages that a walk-in bath tub can offer for seniors. Regardless, it is necessary to properly take into account the unique needs as well as requirements of the individual when deciding on a bath tub, and also to select a style that complies with 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:

Cost

Walk-in bathtubs may be much more expensive than standard tubs, which can make them challenging for some seniors to have the means for.

Space Requirements

Walk-in bath tubs are often larger than conventional tubs, which can be a concern if the washroom is smaller or has restricted space.

Installation Challenges

Installing a walk-in bath tub can be more complicated than setting up a standard bathtub, and also might require substantial renovation work in the bathroom.

Maintenance Requirements

Walk-in bathtubs usually have more functions and also moving components than traditional tubs, which can make them more difficult to maintain and 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 Buying A Walk In Bath Tub?

When investing in a walk-in tub, it is essential to consider a number of key factors to be sure that you choose the most effective product for your needs: These are a few of the key variables to consider when buying a walk-in bathtub. It is essential to carefully study as well as contrast different products and brands to locate the one that best fulfills your requirements, budget plan, and preferences.

Safety Features

Look for elements such as slip-resistant surface areas, integrated grab bars, as well as a low step-in height to make certain optimal safety.

Dimension

Ensure that the walk-in bathtub you select will be accommodated in your bathroom and also is the ideal dimension for your needs.

Style

There are several different styles of walk-in tubs offered, including soaking bathtubs, whirlpool bathtubs, as well as air jets. Decide on the design that best meets your requirements and also preferences.

Building Material

Walk-in bath tubs are usually constructed from fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain. Each component has its own advantages and also disadvantages, so it is essential to research as well as review to find the one that best meets your requirements.

Rate

Walk-in bath tubs can range in rate from several hundred to several thousand bucks, depending upon the brand name, style, and features. It is very important to set a budget and contrast prices to find the most effective worth.

Warranty

Look for a walk-in bathtub with a service warranty that uses sufficient insurance coverage as well as defense.

Installment

Take into consideration the installation requirements and any kind of prospective restoration work needed for the walk-in bathtub. Some designs might call for professional installation, while others might be created for do it yourself installment.

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 St Catharines

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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