Slippery floors, hard surfaces, and tight spaces can make bathrooms one of the most hazardous areas in the home. For older adults or anyone with limited mobility, even a simple trip to the bathroom can feel risky.
According to the CDC, more than one in four older adults falls each year, and bathrooms are one of the most common locations for these accidents.
But the good news? With a few affordable tools and small changes, you can make your bathroom a safer, more comfortable place. These tips will help you reduce falls, maintain independence, and bring peace of mind to you or a loved one.
1. Install Grab Bars in Key Spots
Adding sturdy grab bars around the bathroom provides extra support and stability for getting in and out of the tub, shower, or on and off the toilet.
Place them strategically:
- Inside the bathtub or shower: Install a grab bar like the Safe-er-Grip Shower Handle , which uses strong suction cups for quick, tool-free installation and steady support while bathing.
- Outside the shower and near the toilet: For a permanent and heavy-duty option, the 2-Pack Stainless Steel Bathroom Grab Bars are a great choice. Made of 304 stainless steel, they’re corrosion-resistant and support up to 500 lbs.
The National Institute on Aging recommends grab bars as one of the simplest ways to prevent falls at home.
2. Use Non-Slip Mats and Stickers
Non-slip mats or adhesive decals in the tub, shower, and bathroom floor can greatly reduce slipping hazards. Avoid throw rugs, which can bunch up or slide unexpectedly.
A good option is the Gorilla Grip Original Bath Mat, which has strong suction cups to hold it firmly in place and a soft textured surface for added comfort and safety.
3. Upgrade to a Handheld Shower Head
A handheld shower head paired with a shower chair makes bathing much safer and less tiring. The flexible hose allows you to control water flow without needing to twist or turn, which reduces strain.
The Hotel Spa AquaCare High Pressure 8-Mode Handheld Shower Head features self-cleaning nozzles to prevent clogs, a built-in power wash setting for cleaning tubs and tiles, and an extra-long 6-foot stainless steel hose for easy reach.
4. Add a Raised Toilet Seat
A raised toilet seat makes it easier to sit down and stand up without straining your joints or losing balance. We recommend one with built-in handles for extra stability and support.
The Raised Toilet Seat With Handles, 5″ Toilet Seat Riser with Arms provides both height and sturdy armrests for safer bathroom visits.
5. Set Up a Shower Chair or Transfer Bench
Standing for long periods in the shower can be tiring and risky. A shower chair or transfer bench provides a stable place to sit, reducing the chance of slips and falls.
For bathtubs, the Drive Medical 12011KD-1 Tub Transfer Bench allows you to sit down outside the tub and slide over safely. For showers, the Drive Medical Shower Chair with Backrest offers height adjustability and a sturdy design for comfort and security.
6. Improve Lighting in and Around the Bathroom
Poor lighting increases the risk of trips and falls, especially during nighttime bathroom visits. Bright, even light helps you see clearly and move safely.
The FULEN Motion Sensor Ceiling Light Fixture is a no-install, battery-operated LED light that mounts magnetically, requires no wiring, and even comes with a remote control.
7. Declutter and Organize Essentials
Keeping frequently used items within easy reach reduces the need to bend or stretch. Use storage solutions to keep surfaces clear and minimize trip hazards.
The ULG Over Door Organizer pops right over the door and offers 5 large pockets and 10 mesh side pockets, perfect for storing bathroom essentials.
8. Install a Walk-In Shower or Bathtub
Replacing a traditional bathtub with a walk-in shower eliminates the need to step over high edges. This can be a major safety improvement for those with limited mobility.
If a full remodel isn’t possible, the CleanCut Step Bathtub Accessibility Kit (White, Large) is a great alternative. It converts your existing tub into a step-in shower by creating a low-entry access point.
9. Add Motion-Activated Night Lights
Motion-sensor night lights automatically turn on when someone enters the room, making it safer to navigate in low light.
The AUVON Plug-In Night Light with Motion Sensor offers adjustable brightness, warm white LEDs, and both motion and dusk-to-dawn sensors.
10. Lower Water Temperature to Prevent Burns
Hot water can cause serious burns, especially for older adults. Set your water heater to 120°F or lower to reduce the risk of scalding.
For more guidance, check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Avoiding Tap Water Scalds guide (PDF).
Make Your Bathroom a Safer Place Today
Small changes like these can make a big difference in keeping your bathroom safer and easier to use. Whether you’re helping a loved one or planning ahead for yourself, these simple upgrades bring comfort, confidence, and peace of mind.
For more helpful ideas, visit our guide: Daily Living Aids to Help Seniors Stay Safe.