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Best Bathtubs for Seniors

If you’re elderly or have senior relatives, you’ll appreciate how using a bathtub can become a strenuous and unsafe activity. Thanks to the development of baths, especially for vulnerable individuals, their safety is improved.

best bathtubs for seniors

If you are looking for a safe and comfortable bathtub for seniors, we recommend the ANZZI Walk-In Wide Opening Swinging Door Bathtub, which has a slip-resistant floor and grab handles for safety. It’s a luxury item with an array of jets for a soothing massage experience while in the tub.

Best Overall
ANZZI Walk-in Bathtub 27" x 53" Right Drain Fully...
Best For Deep Soaks
American Standard 2461002.020 Cambridge Apron-Front...
Portable Option
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, Free-Standing Blow Up...
ANZZI Walk-in Bathtub 27" x 53" Right Drain Fully...
American Standard 2461002.020 Cambridge Apron-Front...
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, Free-Standing Blow Up...
Best Overall
ANZZI Walk-in Bathtub 27" x 53" Right Drain Fully...
ANZZI Walk-in Bathtub 27" x 53" Right Drain Fully...
Best For Deep Soaks
American Standard 2461002.020 Cambridge Apron-Front...
American Standard 2461002.020 Cambridge Apron-Front...
Portable Option
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, Free-Standing Blow Up...
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, Free-Standing Blow Up...

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Best Bathtub For Seniors Reviewed 

Choosing the best bathtubs for seniors and people with disabilities depends on a variety of factors, including price, size, ease of entry and exit, and other important features. Here are the top six products that are readily available today.

1. ANZZI Walk-In Wide Opening Swinging Door Whirlpool Bathtub—Best Overall

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This premium bathtub features 12 whirlpool adjustable massage jets along with 18 air jets to soothe your body while bathing. This is ideal for elderly people as it provides therapeutic benefits to help with aches and pains. 

The bathtub features colored lights to provide a relaxing environment, reinvigorate your mind, and allow you to bask in a soothing radiance. 

Most importantly, the tub boasts numerous safety features, such as built-in shower safety bars to offer support and balance. This helps to make entering and exiting the bathtub safer. The low threshold step and extra-wide door also provide a safe environment for the elderly.

The slip-resistant flooring and built-in seat that is ADA compliant further enhance the bathtub’s safety.

Pros

  • In-line maintenance heater.
  • Slip-resistant flooring.
  • Handheld showerhead included.
  • Includes a built-in seat.
  • Includes an extension kit.

Cons

  • Water fills slowly compared to other bathtubs.

2. American Standard Cambridge Apron-Front Americast Right Hand Drain Bathtub—Best for Deep Soaks

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This soaking bathtub is high quality and durable and made from durable Americast—a material that’s lighter than cast iron, making it easier to handle. Its 14-inch depth allows you to enjoy a deep soak in comfort, helping to reduce any aches and pains and provide a stress-relief experience.

The bathtub has excellent heat retention qualities keeping the water at a warm temperature. This is great for lengthy soaks. 

As safety is a huge priority for seniors, this bathtub has a slip-resistant texture floor surface that’s easy to clean and safe to use. The formed steel center layer is solid and stable, helping to improve safety while using the bathtub.

However, we still advise you to install a bath lift or tub safety rail on this tub to reduce further risks.

Pros

  • Slip-resistant floor.
  • Durable, non-porous enamel finish.
  • Formed steel center is strong.

Cons

  • No built-in seat or door.
  • No quick-draining technology.

3. American Standard Cambridge Left Hand Drain Bathtub—Best for Durability

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The next bathtub on our list is the left-hand drain version of the above option. It’s made from durable Americast that’s lightweight while remaining sturdy and robust. This material also insulates the tub and offers a quiet showering experience.

You’ll love how low-maintenance this bathtub is, thanks to the scratch-resistant material. This makes the tub easy to clean, which is ideal for elderly people or those with limited time to space.

Another top feature of this bathtub is its excellent heat retention that keeps the water warmer for longer. Plus, the slip-resistant floor provides a safe environment for elderly and vulnerable people.

It’s also a budget-friendly option with minimalist features, which is ideal for those looking for a no-frills bathtub that still has safety features.

Pros

  • Offers a quiet showering experience.
  • Glossy enamel finish.
  • Easy to clean and scratch-resistant material.

Cons

  • No built-in seat.
  • No jets.

4. Empava Acrylic Walk-in Tub—Best for Disabled Individuals

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If you’re searching for a minimalist bathtub to remain hygienic rather than enjoying a long, relaxing soak, this Empava Walk-in Tub makes a great option. As such, there’s less chance of injuries, making it a safe choice for disabled individuals. 

With a low step-in threshold that’s less than 4 inches, this tub is safe to enter and exit, preventing water from spilling into your bathroom with no need to take a large step into the bathtub.

This walk-in tub has a surrounding handrail that’s built-in, allowing you to have something to grab onto when getting into the bath. The additional bar inside the bathtub adds further stability and keeps you safe while sitting, bathing, and standing.

The extra-wide door is 20 percent wider than other walk-in tubs, allowing you plenty of room when stepping in and out of the bath without putting yourself at risk of falling.

Pros

  • Handheld showerhead.
  • Two handrails for stability and balance.
  • Extra-wide door for entry and exit.
  • Padded headrest for comfort.

Cons

  • Installation can be a little tricky.

5. American Standard Gelcoat Value Whirlpool Bathtub—Best for Soothing Aches

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The whirlpool system features six water jets and a leg-only massage for a soothing and relaxing bathing experience. As a result, it’s a great choice for those who suffer from aches and pains and are looking for more relief.

This tub also features a built-in seat and extra-wide door, enabling you to enter and exit safely. The low threshold step is also appropriate for seniors and those with a disability—reducing the chances of accidents and allowing an easy transfer.

One great feature of this bathtub is the premium fast-fill that enables you to fill the tub at 16 gallons per minute at 40 psi. It’s also kitted with a chrome grab bar, chair-height seat, and textured floor to keep individuals safe while using the bathtub.

Pros

  • Purchase includes a 60-inch tub extender.
  • Quick-filling bath.
  • Quick-draining system.
  • Opening door is contoured to protect the bathtub.

Cons

  • Some customers reported that the jets aren’t powerful.

6. CO-Z Inflatable Portable Bathtub—Best for Low Maintenance

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Finally, if you’re searching for a low maintenance bathtub with no need for installation, the CO-Z is an excellent contender. It’s easy to use and features three air holes to offer a fast and easy inflating and deflating option. In just three minutes, the bathtub is fully pumped up.

This tub includes a comfortable headrest for support and comfort while bathing. Your purchase also includes a zipper closure that makes it easy to adjust water temperature, helping you to enjoy a bath at the perfect temperature for your preferences.

It’s also a suitable size for adults and features a dual drainage pipe for efficient draining so you can quickly fold-up the tub for storage. The extra-thick base allows the bath to preserve heat and protects the floors for a long-lasting product.

Pros

  • No installation required.
  • Includes a comfortable headrest.
  • Features a cup holder.

Cons

  • Not as durable as a bathtub.
  • Tub is high, which can make entry and exit difficult.

Different Types of Bathtubs for the Elderly

We have provided a varied list of the best bathtubs for seniors and the disabled. One popular design is a bathtub with a built-in seat and door (also called walk-in tub). This bath design allows you to sit while showering or bathing, so you don’t struggle to get out of the tub. The door also prevents you from having to step over an incredible height.

Another popular type of best bathtub for the elderly is a version with jets. These jets target specific areas on your body—typically the back and legs—allowing to soothe away any discomfort. They’re also relaxing, which encourages you to get a good night’s sleep. 

What to Look for When Buying a Bathtub for Old People

With many options available, it can be challenging to narrow down your search to select the best bathtub for your needs, preferences, and budgets. Here are some key features to bear in mind during the buying process.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority for everyone, especially seniors and vulnerable individuals. Fortunately, many of the above old people bathtubs come with safety features. Look out for the following:

  • Grab handles.
  • Slip-resistant, textured floor.
  • Built-in seat.

Without these features, the bathtub can become a dangerous place for seniors. The best bathtub for the elderly should be a place where seniors can relax and soothe any aches and pains, rather than putting them in danger in their own homes.

Draining System

For bathtubs with a built-in seat, it’s essential that there’s an efficient draining system, to ensure the water goes down the drain quickly. Otherwise, you’ll be sitting in the tub waiting for the water to slowly trickle down the drain, leaving you at risk of catching a chill.

Some of the above bathtubs have an excellent draining system, such as the American Standard Gelcoat Value Whirlpool Bathtub, which quickly removes water from the tub.

Size

The bathtub’s size is essential. Check the measurements before purchasing to ensure it’ll comfortably fit in your bathroom. Some tubs come with an extension kit, which allows you to adjust the tub’s size to suit the environment and your preferences.

You should check that the length and width provides a comfortable experience for you in the bathtub. You shouldn’t have to squeeze inside or feel that there’s no space to relax.

Consider the tub’s depth, too. The traditional size is 12-28 inches, and we rated the American Standard Cambridge Apron-Front Americast Bathtub as the best option for a long, deep soak.

Deep baths are great for allowing you to have a relaxing soak and soothe away any aches and pains. If you choose a tub with a built-in seat, consider the seat’s height. For example, if you wish to relax in high-depth water, choose one at a lower level as this allows your shoulders to be under the water.

Jets 

If you have arthritis, a sore back, or other aches, a bathtub with jets is a great option. Soaking in a tub with jets allows you to soak away your stresses and ensure that you leave the bath feeling more relaxed. 

Jets have been proven to reduce aches and pains—especially in the back area. If you’re interested in a tub with jets, consider the number available, as the more you have, the more powerful and relaxing the experience. You should also bear in mind their placement as they should target the areas on your body you suffer from most. 

How to Prevent Falls When Using a Bathtub

With safety being a top priority for everyone using a bathtub—particularly seniors, there are some ways you can prevent a fall when using a tub. Our best safety advice is to keep a list of important phone numbers and a phone by the bathtub or install an alert system if you should become in danger.

The bathroom can be a dangerous place when it’s wet, so ensure there’s a slip-resistant mat to hand near the tub for exiting. You should also keep your towel close to the bath for when you get out to prevent dripping on the floor when walking around the bathroom, and causing a hazard.

Make sure your chosen bathtub comes with safety features—such as the ones mentioned above. The tub might cost more, but your health and safety is the main priority. Alternatively, you can purchase a slip-resistant mat and add it to your current bathtub’s floor.

Avoid using silky bath foam. Although these can make your skin feel soft and moisturized, they’re a safety hazard as they create a slippery floor on the bathtub’s surface.

Conclusion

After hours of research, from our list of the best bathtubs for seniors and the disabled, we conclude that the ANZZI Walk-In Wide Opening Swinging Door Whirlpool Bathtub is at the top. It has all the safety components you could need, plus plenty of luxury features to provide a relaxing and soothing experience in the bathroom.

Alternatively, we recommend the American Standard Gelcoat Value Whirlpool. It has a built-in seat and wide door—both designed for comfort and safety. The leg-only massage allows you to find some relief and feel relaxed.

Another great contender is the Empava Acrylic Walk-in Tub. This bathtub has a slip-resistant floor, a low step-in threshold, and grab bars for stability and safety.

Cherry is the editor-in-chief of Mobility With Love. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and a master's degree in Adapted Physical Activity. Her expertise includes biomechanics, biochemistry, nutrition, disability studies, and so on.

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