There are a few reasons why attending the public baths is important to the grandmother.
First, and most importantly, it connects her to her culture and her religion. The baths were a type of ritual cleansing, which the grandmother does not want to give up. The baths connect her to her Syrian heritage.
Secondly, when the grandmother visits the baths she sees other women. Thus the public baths provide the grandmother with socialization and conversation. It is a way for her to connect with other women in her culture.
Finally, visiting the public bath is a tradition the grandmother has done her entire life. The grandmother will not give up something that has been important to her since she was young.
