Show #400 Airing Sunday, 8/26/07
Climbing into a tub or getting up from a bath can be a challenge-and a danger-for anyone dealing with mobility issues. Here today to help us get into "hot water" by making our bathrooms accessible is Mike Donze from Luxury Bath and his client, Helen Keller.
Question: Mike, what are the most common reasons people could use a walk-in tub?
Answer:People come to us when, because of mobility problems, they can't get in and out of the tub safely anymore. It's become dangerous.
This is especially a problem if the person actually sits in the tub to bathe, and can no longer get up from that position.
Question: Helen, what made you decide it was time for a change in your bathroom?
Answer:I was having a really hard time with my legs getting in and out of the tub, and I also had a great fear of falling, so having a walk-in tub is wonderful. You simply open the door, walk in, and lock the door.
I could not tell you the last time that I had a bath (instead of a shower) before the walk in tub. The walk-in has a seat so you can sit down, and turn on the water. Plus you can also turn on the water jets, which are just so relaxing.
Question: Mike, when someone calls with mobility concerns, what's the first step?
Answer:We often recommend that they first come to the store and see what options are there. Actually sit in some of the tubs to see what's comfortable.
Then we actually go out to the house to talk to the person and do a needs analysis. What will work best for them? We'll also conduct a site survey-what is possible in their specific bathroom?
Question: How long does it take to install the new tub?
Answer:Typically a day and a half, complete conversion with plumbing and electrical work as well. And you can use it the next day.
Question: Helen, how do you like your walk-in tub?
Answer:I really love it. Again, it makes me feel safer, and the jets feel just wonderful-you can't imagine.
The tub is really easy to clean-you just use dishwashing detergent.
There's also a shelf on the back for you to put a plant, some bottles, etc.
You too can walk-in to a safer bathroom experience. To learn more about walk-in-tubs, give Luxury Bath a call. The number's next. My thanks to Mike Donze and Helen Keller.
