Overcoming Autism's Sensory Struggles: Finding The Right Vitamins

If you're the main caregiver of a disabled adult child who is unable to perform many of the activities of daily living on his or her own, you may find yourself dreading bath time. Even if your child is relatively calm and compliant, leaning over the edge of a bathtub or stretching to rinse his or her hair can be tough. Fortunately, there are some tub and shower options that can be installed at a relatively low cost while saving you time, hassle, and sanity. Read on to learn more about some bathtub options that can make bath time much less painful. 

Walk-in tub 

A walk-in bathtub is ideal for seniors and others who have mobility issues but can also be great for disabled adults who aren't able to bathe themselves. These tubs have a hinged door that opens outward and a molded seat inside the tub, providing the user with somewhere to sit and a comfortable water level without requiring him or her (or you) to bend over the edge of a tub or climb in and out.

You should be able to easily bathe your child while standing at the edge of the tub, and can then quickly drain the water so he or she won't be left shivering before the water level has fallen below the threshold of the tub door. You'll want to consider your own height, your child's height, and the height of the bathtub seat when choosing a specific tub to ensure you find one that allows you to be comfortable while scrubbing your child or washing his or her hair.

Some walk-in tubs are designed to hold two or more users, making it easy for you to take a bath with your child -- often necessary for safety reasons, such as a seizure disorder or other condition that can make solo bathing risky.

Double shower

Another option to make bathing your child easier is the installation of a double shower with seats. These showers can allow both you and your child to sit, much like the walk-in tub but without the ability to hold water. If your child prefers showers to baths, or if you're in a part of the country frequently subject to drought restrictions, a shower can make more sense. Some homes' plumbing setups may also be more conducive to showers than bathtubs, making a double shower the best choice to help with your child's bathing needs.

Contact a company like Twin City Stair Lifts to learn more about walk-in tubs and showers that are ideal for people with disabilities.