Why Bathroom Safety Matters for Seniors
The bathroom might be one of the smallest spaces in the house, but for seniors, it’s also one of the riskiest. For them, when it comes to home safety, the bathroom deserves special attention. According to the Government of Canada, falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors, with 20–30% experiencing at least one fall each year. Falls also cause 85% of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations, 95% of all hip fractures, $2 billion a year in direct healthcare costs, and over one-third of seniors are admitted to long-term care following hospitalization for a fall.
These numbers highlight a pressing truth: prioritizing fall prevention is not just about safety, it’s about preserving independence and peace of mind.
Which is why we’ve put together a checklist of things to think about when it comes to implementing safety measures in one of the most-used places in the home: The bathroom. While it can be a source of rest and relaxation in terms of a soothing soak in the tub, it can also be a house of horrors if not properly set up for seniors! From all the “slippery when wet” surfaces to potential hazards, it’s a veritable minefield. For example, even the steam of a too-hot shower can cause lightheadedness and risk of fainting in those with low blood pressure.
Here are your best bets for senior-proofing your bathroom:
Top 3 Bathroom Safety Tips
Step One: Make It Slip-Proof!
Add Non-Slip Surfaces
Slippery floors are one of the biggest hazards. You could start by placing non-slip mats inside the tub or shower, and use rugs with rubberized backing on bathroom tiles. These additions provide traction and reduce the likelihood of slipping, especially on wet surfaces.
Install Grab Bars for Extra Support
Sturdy grab bars are a must! No compromising on that. You could place them beside the toilet, inside and outside the shower, and even next to the bathtub.
They offer crucial support when sitting, standing, or regaining balance, and are far more reliable than towel racks or countertops.
Step Two: See Things Clearly: Upgrade Lighting
Good lighting can make a difference. If it’s dark, you increase the chances of walking into something or slipping. Having bright track lighting as well as nightlights for nighttime trips to the bathroom will increase your safety.
Step Three: Smart Tub & Shower Solutions
Walk-In Tubs Are Worth It!
Traditional bathtubs often require a high step to get in and out, which can be difficult and don’t forget, it can be dangerous too. For those with balance or mobility concerns. A walk-in tub eliminates this hazard, offering a safer way to enjoy a warm soak.
No Walk-In? Try a Transfer Bench
A budget-friendly and practical alternative is a transfer bench, which straddles the edge of the tub and lets you sit and swing your legs over safely, reducing the need to balance on one foot. It’s a fantastic option if a new tub isn’t in the cards.
Shower Safely with Handheld Options
Install a handheld shower head (also known as a shower wand) for added flexibility. These can be used while standing or seated and allow for easy rinsing without excessive movement.
Add a Shower Chair
Bathroom shower chairs offer respite in the shower that doesn’t have a built-in bench. Be sure to choose one that’s specific to showers, as it’ll be made from water-resistant materials that don’t rust or deteriorate.
Extra Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors
1. Raise the Toilet Seat With Rails
Raised toilet seats with side rails make it easier to sit and stand, especially for individuals with joint pain or lower body weakness.
2. Keep Things Organized and Accessible
This goes for small electrical items such as hair dryers and electric razors away from water, as well as medications and toiletries (along with extra supplies like toilet paper!) clearly labeled and easy to access.
3. Check Your Fixtures
Always have a certified electrician install bathroom outlets, and perform routine safety checks to ensure all grab bars, towel racks, vanities, and mirrors are properly installed and secure.
4. Set a Safe Water Temperature
Avoid accidental burns by setting your water heater to no higher than 49°C (120°F). This small step can make a big difference in protecting sensitive skin.
5. Keep It Clear Of Clutter
Ensure the walking path between the toilet, sink, shower, and tub is free of clutter or extra furniture such as small shelves, etc. This can help prevent middle-of-the-night accidents and trips.
6. Add a Medical Alert System
A waterproof medical alert button in the bathroom offers reassurance for seniors and their families. In the event of a fall or emergency, help is just a button away.
You Deserve to Feel Safe and Stay Independent
Every small improvement in bathroom safety contributes to a larger goal: supporting independence and quality of life. These proactive steps not only help prevent falls, but also reduce anxiety, boost confidence, and ensure the bathroom remains a space for comfort, not concern.
Remember, aging doesn’t have to mean giving up your autonomy.
By making your bathroom safer, you’re taking a meaningful step toward living independently for as long as possible.
A Safer Space, A Stronger You
The bathroom may be one of the most used spaces in the home, but it doesn’t have to be one of the most dangerous.
With the right precautions, you can make it safer, more functional, and better suited to the wonderful lifestyle you are dreaming of.
At Verve Senior Living, we believe in empowering seniors to live with confidence and dignity. If you’re exploring ways to enhance home safety or are considering a move to a community designed with your well-being in mind, we’re here to help every step of the way.
