Handicapped people loath the idea of using a common bathtub. As stepping over the side of the bathtub to get into it is a challenge for the elderly people; it must be much more difficult for the handicapped people to use the bathtub as such, without assistance. Therefore special bathtubs have been introduced to help these people to have bath safely without assistance. Here are some of the handicapped bathtubs that are available.

Modified standard tub – The standard bathtub can be renovated to make it usable for the handicapped people. Nothing much is done on the bathtub except that a portion from the outer wall is cut off and a water tight door is attached. The person has to open the door and step inside the tub without effort and close the door. The door being water tight allow soaking as well as bath.

This type of modification can be done within a very short time and at a very low cost; but this can be used by persons whose mobility issue is not grave. This type of modification, however, does not include the other safety features like grab bars, or a place to sit. Hydrotherapy facility is also not included in this type of modification. Soaking in such a bathtub will require a lot of maneuvering before one could make himself comfortable at the bottom of the tub in order to soak.

Deep walk-in bathtub. These tubs are to be used while seated. The sides are as high as 36 inches. You can step into the tub by opening a door and step over a threshold of around six inches. A grab rail has been provided with the help of which you can sit on an integrated seat which has a backrest. The door that opens inside can be sealed with a lever or push plate. The person sitting inside the tub will have all the water controls within reach. The tub can be filled with water up to the chest or shoulder level, whichever he prefers. You can soak or bathe in the seated position easily. The door of the tub is so designed that the water filling the tub creates pressure on the door to make it more water tight.

The deep walk-in handicapped bathtubs are available in an array of shapes and sizes. You are sure to find one that will fit your existing space in the bathroom. Some take up lesser space and some will fit the space with three surrounding walls; while there are freestanding ones as well which can be installed quite easily.

The bathtubs that are especially made for handicapped are equipped with thermostatic controls to control the temperature of the water and handheld sprayers for ease of bathing. If you want, the bathtub can be provided with hydrotherapy option; jets of water that can be controlled and also combination of water and air jets. In addition you can also have an overhead shower head. Even shower curtains can be provided for privacy.