Best Walk-in Tubs in Waco, TX

How to choose walk-in tubs in Waco

With no state income taxes and a relatively low cost of living, Texas is a popular place for retirees. Many seniors choose to live in Waco for its consistent warm temperatures that let residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities.

Nearly 12 percent of Waco residents are 65 or older. This age group is more susceptible to injuries; every 11 seconds, a senior is in an emergency room being treated for a fall. Installing a walk-in tub reduces the risk of slipping and gives seniors confidence when bathing. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends seniors reduce fall risks in their homes, especially hazardous areas like the bathroom.

People with disabilities also benefit from walk-in tubs. More than 8 percent of Waco’s population has a disability that may limit their mobility or increase their risk of falling. Other people who benefit include anyone with balance problems and people with chronic aches and pains.

Reasons to purchase a walk-in tub in Waco:

• You want to age in place: Many seniors want to live in the comfort of their home and take measures to reduce the risk of falls and provide extra security. Installing a walk-in tub is often one of the first renovations for seniors wanting to age in place.
• You have limited mobility: Because of the low-step entry, getting in and out of the shower is much simpler and safer with a walk-in tub. Most walk-in tubs are ADA compliant and have features such as wheelchair access, seats, grab rails and non-stick flooring.
• You suffer from pain: People with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, circulation issues and carpal tunnel syndrome benefit from hydrotherapy benefit from hydrotherapy. Studies have found that hydrotherapy is also an effective form of rehabilitation for injuries, strokes and emotional trauma.

How much is a walk-in tub?

The price of a walk-in tub depends on the company, type of tub and installed features. Some companies offer free installation, financing options and other benefits to help offset the purchase price. Compare products from several companies to find the tub that best fits your needs and budget.

The cost of walk-in tubs in Waco

Manufacturers also offer wheelchair-accessible tubs and bariatric tubs designed for larger Waco residents.

The average cost to install a walk-in tub is around $1,500. Most walk-in tubs are designed to fit in the area currently taken by a traditional bathtub and can be retrofit into your bathroom. Most homes do not require any additional plumbing or electrical changes. If you need to hire a licensed contractor, it increases the cost of installation.

Will my healthcare cover a walk-in tub?

Original Medicare does not provide financial assistance for walk-in tubs. A small number of private health insurance providers cover some or part of the cost — check with your provider to see if your policy covers a walk-in tub.

Because many people pay for the cost of a walk-in tub without assistance from insurance, there are several federal or local programs available to Waco residents to help them afford one.

Programs in Waco providing assistance to purchase walk-in tubs

• Texas Veteran Affairs benefits
• Special Home Adaptation grant
• Specially Adapted Housing grant
• Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services
• Federal grants (such as USDA Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Grant)
• Medicaid reimbursement
• AARP discounts
• Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services funding

While a walk-in tub may require an initial investment, the comfort gained from aging in place and reducing bathroom falls far outweigh the upfront costs.