When i saw the title of your post, I was hoping that someone who has a walk-in tub would share their experience... alas. We've thought of getting one, too, and thought of it as a kind of hot tub in addition to bathing. My partner lived in Japan for many years and really enjoys a bath. But, like you, the cost is prohibitive.
One thing we ARE going to invest in is a bidet, the kind with warm water. There were stories about it in the news in response to the hoarding of toilet paper. I've been intrigued with them ever since i visited a rich uncle and he had one. I truly think that a lot of caregiving issues would be resolved or made simpler by having one. If the care recipient can't wipe themselves after voiding, either they or their care giver can push a button for warm water, then another for warm air and voila, nobody had to wipe a poopy bum.
My 2 cents. That and $3.50 will buy you a latte.
Did you ever make a decision about it?
BTW, there is a wonderful (and far more active) community of caregivers on the facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aarpfamilycaregivers/. Maybe someone there has purchased a walk in tub... i'm going to have to start playing the lottery so i can get one...
Jane, hoping for a bidet
