The Lifetime Home

Bathroom

With its slippery surfaces, the bathroom can be a particularly hazardous area of the home. In 2011, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that over 80% of injuries that happened in the bathroom were a result of falls. High rates of injuries were related to use of the tub, shower, and the toilet. Scroll down to learn more about common problem areas in the bathroom and solutions to address them.

Click the arrows below to learn about common problems related to safe and supportive aging in the kitchen, and solutions that can address them. Explore the Solutions Gallery to view photos from actual homes that demonstrate how design and product changes can support independent living.

Please note: the photographs on this website represent possible solutions to various challenges and should not be taken without consideration of individuals’ specific needs and environments. Obtaining professional advice and/or assessment is strongly recommended before making changes to the home.

Problem 1. Toilet height too low – difficult to sit and stand

Solutions

Install a comfort height toilet or raised toilet seat.

Install grab bars by the toilet.

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Problem 2. Losing balance when reaching for objects

Solutions

Create accessible storage for frequently used items and to reduce clutter.

Locate clothes hooks slightly above eye level.

Install grab bars by sink.

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Problem 3. Slippery surfaces in shower or bath

Solutions

Add anti-skid strips on tub/shower floor.

Choose flooring materials that are textured, slip-resistant/anti-slip, even-surfaced, low-glare, durable, and easy to maintain.

Install a walk-in, roll-in curbless or European-style shower – these have little or no threshold or lip to step over.

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Problem 4. Inadequate support in bath area

Solutions

Install a hand-held shower hose.

Install seating support in the shower or bathtub (e.g., a bench/seat which may be built-in or fold-down, or a stand-alone seat with integrated grab bars).

Install grab bars on the shower and/or tub walls.

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Problem 5. Inadequate lighting

Solutions

Install or plug in nightlights so you can safely use the bathroom at night.

Ensure a light is located near or above the shower and/or bathtub.

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Disclaimer: Information included on this website may contain references or cross references to other agencies, products, programs, or links. The University of Southern California, Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, Fall Prevention Center of Excellence (FPCE) does not endorse nor qualify any of the included agencies, products, programs, or links. The listing of these providers, products, programs, and services is for informational purposes and individuals must use their own caution and judgment when using these resources. FPCE does not hold any liability or personal interest in any of these agencies, products, programs, or services.