Walk-In Bathtubs Waterloo, 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.


  • Read The Review
Call Now For Your FREE Consult
TOP

Looking for Walk-in Bathtub For Seniors in Waterloo, Canada? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Age Gracefully In Your Own Home With A Walk-In Bath Tub.

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!

Wil Thomas

Wil Thomas

Editor at Seniors Bulletin
Table of Contents hide
Walk-In Bathtubs: What You Need To Know
Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Waterloo
Best Overall
Best For DIY
What Is A Walk-in Tub?
Bathroom Safety: Do I Need A Walk-In BathTub?
Features: Bathtubs With Seats For Seniors
Different Types Of Walk-In Bathtubs
Walk-In Bath Cost
Ontario Healthcare Facts
Advantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors
Disadvantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors
What To Look For When Investing In A Walk In Bath Tub?
Legal And Construction Requirements For Walk-In Bathtubs In Canada
Funding For Walk-In Bath Tubs In Waterloo
Provincial
Not-For-Profit Organizations
Federal
Canada Not-For-Profit Organizations
More Walk-In Bath Tub Reviews
Related Posts
In Health News
Bulletin Ratings

Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Waterloo

Best Overall

TOP

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
Call Now
1 (888) 956-0161
Request A Call Back
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.

☆☆☆☆☆ 4/5
Call Now
1 (800) 707-5276

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
Pricing
Service Areas
Waterloo Nearby Service Areas:
Guide To Walk-In Bathtubs

What Is A Walk-in Tub?

A walk-in tub is a kind of bath tub with a low threshold or step-in entry, making it simpler for individuals with limited mobility to step in and also out of the tub safely and securely and comfortably. These bath tubs frequently have integrated safety components 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?

Person who might require or find it helpful to have a walk-in bath tub are individuals that:

  • Mobility or balance difficulties: If an individual deal with getting in and out of a standard tub, a walk-in bathtub may provide a safer and more accessible solution.
  • Age: Elderly people might gain from the safety elements as well as comfortable style of a walk-in bathtub.
  • Physical disabilities: If a person has a physical disability that makes standard bath tubs hard to use, a walk-in bathtub might be a more ideal option.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: The built-in seat as well as non-slip surface of a walk-in tub can give additional comfort and also support for individuals with arthritis or joint pain.
  • Difficulty with bending over or stooping: If an individual deal with bending over or stooping, a walk-in bath tub with a low step-in threshold can make entering and exiting the tub a lot easier.
  • House customizations: If an individual’s house has been changed to integrate a wheelchair, a walk-in bathtub can give a safer and also more accessible option for showering.
  • Hydrotherapy: If an individual desires the benefits of hydrotherapy, a walk-in bathtub 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 vary depending on the individual style and manufacturer, but some usual features consist of:

Low-Threshold Or Step-In Entry

This makes it possible for people with limited mobility to effortlessly enter and exit the bath tub.

Slip-Resistant Surface Area

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

Built-In Grab Bars

These accommodate additional assistance as well as sturdiness for entering and exiting the bathtub.

Adaptable Showerhead

A detachable or adjustable shower head allows the individual to control the direction as well as outflow of the bath water while bathing.

Hydrotherapy Jets

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

Heated Surface Areas

A number of walk in tubs have heated surfaces, such as the bench or back-rest, which offer included comfort as well as heat.

Simple Controls

Many walk-in tubs have easy to understand controls, like electronic displays and also straightforward buttons, for changing the water temperature level as well as flow.

Built-in 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 needs to have an effectively operating drainpipe and overflow to stop water from overflowing as well as triggering damages.

Door Seal

A door seal serves to keep water within the tub, enhancing the efficiency of the tub and also decreasing the risk of leaks.
These are some of the most usual components of walk-in bathtubs. However, it is essential to properly take into consideration the particular requirements as well as needs of the person when choosing a tub, and to select a design with elements that suit those needs.
Categories

Different Types Of Walk-In Bathtubs

Walk-in tubs can be categorized based on their features and design. Listed here are a few of the popular forms of walk-in bath tubs:

Soaking Walk-In Tubs

These are standard walk-in tubs that are designed for simple soaking and also leisure. They often have a smooth and also comfortable interior, without jets or other therapeutic components.

Whirlpool Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are equipped with jets that create a whirling water, generating a massage-like experience . They can be useful for those with muscle pain or tension.

Air Jet Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs are very similar to whirlpool bathtubs however work with air jets as opposed to water jets to produce a bubbling massage effect.

Combination Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bath tubs incorporate soaking, whirlpool, and also air jet components in one product, using several options for a relaxing and also therapeutic bathing experience.

Bariatric Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are created to fit larger or taller individuals or those with mobility challenges. They are typically wider and much deeper than regular walk-in bath tubs as well as might have extra safety components, such as reinforced wall surfaces and extra grab bars.

Shower Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are designed to be made use of as both a bathtub as well as a shower, with an integrated seat, adjustable handheld showerhead, and a reduced threshold doorway.
It is necessary to take into account the unique needs and preferences of the user when deciding on a walk-in tub, in addition to the measurements and also configuration of the bathroom, to be sure a comfortable as well as safe showering experience.
Costs

Walk-In Bath Cost

The cost of a walk-in tub in Canada can vary widely being dependent on the size, material, components, and also brand name of the bath tub. Generally, the cost of a standard walk-in bathtub can range from $2,000 to $7,000, while more custom designs with added features can cost upwards of $10,000 or higher.

It is essential to keep in mind that the cost of a walk-in bath tub will additionally depend upon the certain demands as well as needs of the individual, as well as the amount of install. It is recommended to get estimates from multiple providers to compare prices as well as select the best solution for your finances and requirements.

Additionally, it is a good idea to take into consideration factors such as the durability, quality, and upkeep requirements of the bathtub 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 bathtubs are designed with safety measure benefits, including low-threshold or step-in thresholds, slip-resistant surface areas, integrated grab bars, and also adaptable shower heads, which can help decrease the risk of falls and also accidents.

Increased Accessibility

A walk-in bath tub allows people with limited mobility to conveniently enter and go out the bathtub, rendering it a more accessible solution for seniors.

Comfort And Relaxation

Many walk-in bath tubs are outfitted with hydrotherapy jets, warmed surfaces, and also integrated seats, which can offer a relaxing and also healing experience for seniors.

Increased Hygiene

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

Increased Independency

By offering a much safer and much more accessible alternative for washing, a walk-in tub can allow elderly people keep their independence and also dignity.

Increased Circulation

The warmer water and hydrotherapy jets can improve blood flow and also serve to ease pain and rigidity in the muscles and joints.

Decreased Stress and Anxiety

Bathing in a walk-in bathtub can be a soothing and also rejuvenating experience, which can help reduce stress and also tension levels for elderly people.
These are just some of the benefits that a walk-in bath tub can offer for elderly people. Of course, it is essential to properly look at the particular needs and conditions of the individual when deciding on a bathtub, as well as to decide on a design that complies with those needs.
See The SeniorsBulletin Canada Ratings
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 tubs can be much more pricy than standard bathtubs, that may make them challenging for some elderly people to afford.

Space Requirements

Walk-in tubs are often larger than traditional bath tubs, which may be a concern in case that the bathroom is small or has limited area.

Installation Difficulties

Installing a walk-in tub can be a bit more complex than installing a traditional bath tub, and might require considerable redesign work in the bathroom.

Maintenance Requirements

Walk-in tubs usually have more elements and moving parts than traditional bathtubs, which can make them more difficult to care for 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.

See The SeniorsBulletin Canada Ratings
Buying Guide

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

When purchasing a walk-in tub, it’s important to consider a number of essential factors to make certain that you choose the most ideal walk-in tub for your needs: These are a few of the key aspects to consider when purchasing a walk-in tub. It is very important to thoroughly study and contrast different products as well as brand names to find the one that best satisfies your needs, budget, and choices.

Safety Functions

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

Dimension

Make certain that the walk-in bath tub you select will fit in your bathroom as well as is the right size for your needs.

Style

There are many different designs of walk-in bath tubs available in the market, including soaking tubs, whirlpool bathtubs, and also air jets. Choose the design that best satisfies your requirements as well as preferences.

Building Material

Walk-in tubs are usually constructed from fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain. Each building material has its individual advantages and also drawbacks, so it’s important to explore and also review to identify the one that best meets your needs.

Price

Walk-in bath tubs can vary in cost from numerous hundred to numerous thousand bucks, depending on the brand name, style, and also attributes. It is very important to establish a budget plan and contrast prices to locate the most effective worth.

Guarantee

Search for a walk-in tub with a guarantee that uses adequate coverage as well as defense.

Installment

Consider the installation demands as well as any kind of potential improvement work needed for the walk-in bathtub. Some versions might need professional installment, while others may be made for do it yourself setup.

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 Waterloo

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.

Visit Website

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.

Visit Website

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

View website

Overview

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

Visit Website

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.

Visit Website

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.

View website

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)

 

Visit Website

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.

Visit Website

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.

Visit Website

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.

Visit Website

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

Visit Website

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

View website

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.

View website

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.

View website

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.

View website

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
View website
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.

View Website

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.

View website

More Information on Funding & Financial Assistance
In The Bulletin

More Walk-In Bath Tub Reviews

In The Bulletin

Related Posts

In Health News

  1. App for skilled workers declared winner in innovation challenge - Northern Ontario Business
    Published on 2023-04-20