Bathrooms are inherently dangerous environments due to the combination of water, soap, and hard, often tiled surfaces, leading to a high incidence of falls. For older adults, visual impairments, mobility challenges, balance issues, and difficulty bending can make typical bathroom tasks much more hazardous. AARP's Amy Goyer and medical director Alyson Michener agree that navigating these small spaces becomes tricky and increases fall risks.
Several safety additions can be incorporated into bathroom renovations to address these dangers, many of which align with ADA compliance standards. These include installing grab bars in high-slip areas like showers and beside toilets, opting for nonslip flooring such as textured porcelain or cushioned vinyl, and choosing comfort-height toilets (17 to 19 inches high) to reduce strain. Curbless or low-threshold showers, along with adjustable hand-held showerheads and shower seats, further enhance safety and accessibility. Proper lighting, including layered illumination and motion-sensor lights, can prevent nighttime stumbles, as can wider doorways and pathways for potential walkers or wheelchairs.
Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing these safety features, with over two-thirds of respondents in a 2025 Houzz study renovating bathrooms for special needs, primarily aging family members. While a basic safety refresh (grab bars, comfort-height toilet, lighting) can cost between $1,500 and $3,000, a full ADA-compliant remodel, including a curbless walk-in shower, can range from $15,000 to $35,000. Experts like ASU Professor Thurmon Lockhart are working with the CPSC to update outdated safety standards for bathroom surfaces, as the US faces an increasing number of falls, projected to reach 52 million annually by 2030, particularly affecting the aging population who are more susceptible to severe injuries like traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Many of the functional, bolted-on retrofits seen as aesthetically jarring afterthoughts could be avoided if designers prioritized safety from the outset. Installing wooden blocks behind shower tiles during initial construction, for instance, allows for future grab bar installation without costly demolition. Large tiles with minimal grout along with proper ventilation can also improve hygiene and safety. Emphasizing safety measures in design helps maintain independence and privacy for seniors, an essential aspect for their well-being.
