Room Safety Spotlight: Bathroom Safety and Aging in Place
When most people think of home safety, they picture smoke alarms or sturdy railings. But the truth is, one of the most dangerous rooms in the home is the bathroom. For older adults, this everyday space is often where small risks add up to big hazards.
According to the CDC, approximately 81% of nonfatal bathroom injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments are caused by falls—a statistic that highlights just how critical this space is for anyone who wants to age in place safely. Slippery surfaces, tight spaces, and the need to transition in and out of tubs or showers all increase fall risk.
The good news? With awareness and thoughtful changes, bathroom safety improvements can transform bathrooms from high-risk zones into supportive, comfortable environments.
Why Bathrooms Pose Special Risks
Bathrooms are unique because they combine water, hard surfaces, and frequent movement. Common risk factors include:
Slippery floors from water and condensation
Low or unstable toilets that are difficult to get on and off
High-sided tubs or step-in showers that create tripping hazards
Lack of grab bars near toilets and showers
Poor lighting that makes it difficult to see at night
Rugs without slip-resistant backing that slide on tile floors
Small, cramped layouts that make it hard to use a walker or cane safely
These risks are amplified by reduced balance, vision changes, or slower reaction times that come naturally with age. Addressing bathroom safety early can significantly reduce these risks before they lead to falls.
How a Certified Aging in Place Specialist Improves Bathroom Safety
A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) looks at the bathroom with trained eyes—not just for today’s needs but for the years ahead. Here’s what we recommend:
Grab Bars in Key Locations
Near the toilet, shower, and tub to provide stable support.Non-Slip Flooring
Replace slick tiles or add textured mats and coatings to reduce slipping.Raised Toilets or Toilet Risers
Easier transfers reduce strain on joints and improve stability.Walk-In Showers or Tubs
Curb-free showers eliminate tripping hazards and can accommodate shower chairs or benches.Handheld Shower Heads & Adjustable Fixtures
Increase comfort and reduce the need for awkward movements.Improved Lighting
Nightlights and brighter overhead fixtures improve visibility and confidence.Secure, Slip-Resistant Rugs
Eliminate loose throw rugs or replace them with rubber-backed mats.Wider Doorways & Space Adjustments
Accommodate walkers or wheelchairs if needed.
Each of these changes reduces fall risk and supports long-term bathroom safety, creating a space where independence and confidence are maintained.
Why Bathroom Safety Matters for Everyone
Even if you’re not yet worried about your own safety, bathroom risks can impact:
Parents or grandparents visiting your home
Neighbors or friends who may be aging in place
Colleagues or loved ones balancing caregiving roles
Knowing what to look for—and how to improve it—equips you to support independence and dignity, whether for yourself or others.
Bathroom Safety with Home at Home
At Home at Home, our CAPS-certified team evaluates every corner of the home—including high-risk rooms like bathrooms—to identify risks and recommend practical, affordable solutions.
From simple grab bar installations to full remodels with walk-in showers, we help families create safe and comfortable bathrooms that evolve with their needs.
Take the Next Step
Your bathroom doesn’t have to be a danger zone. With the right modifications, it can become a space of safety, independence, and peace of mind.
Contact Home at Home today for a complimentary consultation and let us help you make your bathroom—and your home—a place where you can age confidently.