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Illustration of an occupational therapist showing a bathtub opening to an older woman
Bathtub conversions · Occupational therapy at home

A lower threshold.
Guidance for your assessment.

Applications, supports and limitations of an opening in an existing bathtub, to inform your assessment.

Ask a questionUnderstand the options
  • Information for your assessment
  • Models and their limitations
  • A conversation about your questions

Talk to ABC: 438 772-RENO (438 772-7366)

Between an assistive device and a renovation

Less extensive workMore extensive work

Less extensive work

Assistive device

A grab bar or transfer bench: when the need relates to support or transfers.

Bathtub conversion

The bathtub stays and the threshold is lowered: when stepping over the sidewall is the obstacle.

Renovation

A curbless shower or remodelled bathroom: when the existing layout is not enough.

More extensive work

A closer look at the models

Catalogue image of the Step model installed in a bathtub
1 / 2
StepPermanent opening for shower use.
Approximate step-over reduction
About 8 in.
Opening width
24 in. at the top
20¾ in. at the threshold
Catalogue image of the Deep Step model installed in a bathtub
1 / 2
Deep StepPermanent opening for a deeper bathtub.
Approximate step-over reduction
About 10½ in.
Opening width
24 in. at the top
20 in. at the threshold
Catalogue image of the Ultra-Low model installed in a bathtub
1 / 2
Ultra-LowFor a high-sided bathtub; confirm the inside and outside depths.
Approximate step-over reduction
About 13¼ in.
Opening width
24¼ in. at the top
20¾ in. at the threshold
Catalogue image of the Convertible model installed in a bathtub
1 / 2
ConvertibleRemovable panel to keep the option of a bath.
Approximate step-over reduction
About 8 in.
Opening width
18¾ in. at the top
15½ in. at the threshold

Nominal dimensions and approximate step-over reductions. The final threshold height and compatibility are confirmed on site.

A clamp-on bar: assess this accessory separately

The bar shown measures 16½ in. and clamps onto a sidewall 3 to 6¼ in. wide. It is not suitable for acrylic or fibreglass bathtubs.

It does not automatically replace a wall-mounted grab bar. Reach, grip and posture must be assessed: bending the trunk may affect balance. The installer checks the supporting surface and attachment.

Demonstration of a hand gripping the clamp-on bar installed beside the bathtub opening
An accessory separate from the kit, to be chosen according to support needs and the bathtub.

Criteria and limitations

Start with the person

  • Is the sidewall the main obstacle?
  • What method of getting in and out could be considered?
  • Which uses do they want to keep: showering, bathing or both?

Take the assessment further

  • Balance, reach to supports and posture during the transfer.
  • The need for a seated transfer or curbless access.
  • Unresolved difficulties, fatigue and changing needs.

Plan for everyday use

  • Position for washing and tolerance for the activity.
  • Available help and the space required.
  • Handling the insert if bath use is retained.

Installation

Allow 48 hours of drying time before use, following the installer’s instructions. Nothing is cut until they confirm feasibility on site.

10 questions to guide your thinking

Ten questions to structure your thinking around the person’s needs and compare options to explore. Use your existing assessment as the starting point.

Guidance for discussion, with no automatic clinical validation. Answers are not saved or sent.

Go through the ten questions
01 What is the main obstacle to using the bathtub?
02 What method of getting in and out is being considered in the functional assessment?
03 Has balance while stepping over the threshold been assessed with the intended supports?
04 Can the intended supports be reached and used without a posture that compromises balance?
05 What position is planned for washing?
06 Has the assistance needed from another person been defined, and is it available?
07 Does the person or household want to keep the option of taking a bath?
08 If bath use is retained, who will be able to remove and replace the removable insert?
09 Does the space around the bathtub allow for the planned movement, supports, seat and assistance?
10 Do needs vary enough to change how the person gets in, gets out or washes?

From assessment to installation

  1. Understand the needs. The occupational therapist assesses use, transfers and supports with the person.
  2. Explore the options. ABC explains the kits and arranges a connection with an installer, subject to availability.
  3. Confirm and choose. The installer takes measurements and confirms the model. The person chooses based on the information provided.
  4. Carry out the adaptation. The installer carries out the work and explains the use and curing instructions.

Technical documentation

For technical questions or documentation, request a conversation with ABC.

  • Model overview.
  • Preliminary assessment and measurement guide.
  • Installation guides in French.
  • Care and use guides.
  • Demonstration photos and videos.
  • Technical discussion with ABC.
Ask ABC a question
Your questions

Talk with ABC

We can answer your questions about the kits, technical documents and installation.

438 772-RENO (438 772-7366) · info@abcrenos.com

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