I love Maax for soaker tubs I find jetted ones ar eoften a novelty that wears of so I do not usually advise those for clients . I bathe every night so a nice deep soaker 66" long is my fave. I love acrylic tubs so nice to keep clean and hold the water temp very well. BTW I am tall so hence the longer tub. As for drop in versus alcove I still prefer an alcove I agree about the grab bars they can look nice and now is the time to installt the blocking which is a must .

I don't know much about either, but since this is a new build and you are considering aging issues, when they are doing the framing, have them install blocking behind the walls so you have the support to add grab bars when you feel they are needed. Just make sure to measure and take pics of where the blocking is for future knowledge.

I just designed and built a guest bath and put in grab bars for my parents to use for the shower/tub. They look great and high end, not nursing home like at all. And, even though I'm only 50, I find myself reaching for them reflexively and don't mind having them.