As the population continues to age, more individuals are considering modifications to their homes to maintain independence and safety. One popular upgrade is the installation of a walk-in bathtub. While these tubs come with an upfront investment, they can offer significant cost savings over time, particularly for seniors. Let’s dive into the financial benefits and explore how walk-in bathtubs can save money for aging homeowners going into 2025.
1. Reduced Risk of Injuries and Associated Costs
The Financial Impact of Falls
According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, resulting in over 36 million falls annually in the U.S., with 3 million requiring emergency medical care. The average hospital stay after a fall-related injury costs $30,000 or more, and recovery expenses (e.g., physical therapy) can add thousands more.
How A Walk-In Bathtub Helps
Walk-in bathtubs dramatically reduce the risk of falls due to their low-threshold entry, slip-resistant surfaces, and built-in seating. By investing in a walk-in tub, homeowners could potentially avoid these high medical costs.
2. Avoiding Assisted Living Costs
Rising Assisted Living Expenses
The average cost of assisted living in the U.S. in 2024 is approximately $4,500 per month, according to Genworth Finacial’s Cost of Care Survey. That’s over $54,000 annually. Many seniors move to assisted living facilities because they fear bathroom-related accidents at home.
The Savings Potential
Installing a walk-in tub allows seniors to safely bathe at home, potentially delaying or even eliminating the need for assisted living services. This one-time investment, typically ranging from $6,000 to $15,000Â (including installation), could save tens of thousands of dollars annually.
3. Lower Home Modification Costs
A One-Time Safety Solution
Many seniors spend money on temporary safety fixes, such as grab bars, shower chairs, or non-slip mats. While these are helpful, they often need replacement or upkeep over time. A walk-in bathtub serves as a comprehensive, long-term solution, consolidating safety features into one permanent fixture.
Tax Benefits
Seniors can often offset some installation costs through tax deductions. Home modifications for medical needs, such as a walk-in tub, may qualify as medical expenses under IRS guidelines, reducing the net cost.
4. Water and Energy Efficiency
Modern walk-in bathtubs are designed with efficiency in mind:
Fast Drainage and Fill Times: Reducing water waste compared to traditional tubs.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Many models are built to retain heat, decreasing the need for reheating water.
Lower Utility Bills: Over time, the reduced water and energy usage can result in substantial savings.
5. Increased Home Value
Bathroom Upgrades Pay Off
Bathroom renovations, especially those designed for aging-in-place, consistently rank among the best ROI projects for homeowners. According to Zillow, homes with accessible features like walk-in bathtubs attract a wider range of buyers and may sell faster and at a premium, especially in markets with a growing senior population.
Resale Value
Even if homeowners don’t remain in the house long-term, the inclusion of a walk-in tub can make the property more appealing to buyers, particularly those with older family members. Get some visual inspiration or check out past style installed by Gleeson's Modern Concepts here!
6. Improved Quality of Life With a Walk In Tub
While not a direct financial benefit, the peace of mind and independence a walk-in tub provides are invaluable. Studies from AARP indicate that seniors who feel safer at home are less likely to experience depression and stress-related health conditions, leading to fewer medical expenses overall.
Conclusion
Investing in a walk-in bathtub isn’t just about safety—it’s about saving money in the long run. From preventing costly injuries to avoiding assisted living expenses, the financial and emotional benefits are undeniable. Going into 2025, walk-in bathtubs remain a practical choice for aging homeowners seeking independence and long-term savings.
If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a free consultation with Gleeson’s Modern Concepts today. Let’s make your bathroom safer, more comfortable, and cost-efficient!
Stay safe!
Chris Gleeson
Sources
Genworth Financial: Cost of Care Survey
Forbes: Best Walk-In Tubs 2024
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