For anyone that has bought a home and lived in it for many years, there is often more at stake with homeownership than just the value of the house itself. Raising a family, or even living together in challenging times like the COVID-19 virus create experiences, memories, and history in the home that go beyond finance.
With many people now following shelter in place guidance from state government guidance, the home has become more important than ever. For older homeowners, the comfort and familiarity of home are especially important in these uncertain times, and one way to maintain that familiarity is to think about getting a tub conversion for the bathroom. Here’s why.
What Is A Tub Conversion?
In the majority of American homes, the bathtub is something you carefully step into. That’s because the tub is one solid piece of material, and is often raised slightly from ground level. While many tubs also house a showerhead for a combinate, bathtub/shower stall, others are more premium and maybe dedicated bathtubs that even sport hot tub like features.
A tub conversion is when an existing bathtub is modified to allow a “gate” to be installed. This means that to get into the tub, the gate can be opened, and the owner can walk through and shut it. It is, however, a watertight seal, so regular baths can still be taken without leaking water onto the floor.
Why Get A Conversion?
One of the things many homeowners fail to account for when thinking about tub access is mobility. An accident that results in someone using a wheelchair, for example, means that regular bathtub use is now impossible since it requires the ability to walk. The natural aging process, however, can also introduce mobility issues that may need a wheelchair, walker, or other forms of assistance as walking becomes difficult.
Without a tub conversion, getting into a tub once mobility issues become a concern significantly increases health risks. A bathroom is already a higher risk area than other parts of the home due to the presence of water on the floor during use, which can create slippery surfaces. If this is combined with medical conditions that induce frailty, slower response time, and more delicate bones, injuries can be severe, even crippling.
Stay In Your Home Longer
Tub conversions are ways for elderly homeowners to remain in their beloved homes for a longer period, despite mobility issues. Moving to an elder care facility is often done because certain aspects of the home, such as bathing, are more difficult to safely, conveniently complete.
If you’re interested in remaining in your home longer, or you have an elderly family member that you’d like to see stay at home, rather than transfer to new facilities, think about getting a tub conversion. The familiarity of the home environment, especially after living in it for decades, is an important one. If you want to know more about how to achieve this, we can help. Contact CDH Resurfacing Solutions, and we can go over the tub conversion options available to you.