Bathtub Safety for Seniors

Stepping into a bathtub can be challenging for elderly citizens and requires extra care to prevent slips and falls.

Stepping into a bathtub can become challenging as balance, strength and mobility change. A few practical improvements can make bathing safer and help seniors remain more independent.

1. Install Tub Safety Bars or Grab Bars

Grab bars provide a stable handhold when stepping into or out of the bathtub. Depending on the layout, vertical and horizontal bars can both be useful. They should be installed at an appropriate height and rated to support the user.

2. Use a Bath Bench or Shower Chair

A bench or chair allows the user to sit instead of standing on a wet surface for the entire bath or shower.

3. Consider a Step-In Bathtub Conversion

A bathtub cutout conversion creates a lower opening in the side of the existing tub, reducing the height that must be stepped over. Products designed for this purpose can include a molded, slip-resistant entry surface.

4. Wear Non-Slip Footwear

Non-slip shower shoes or other suitable footwear may provide extra traction on wet bathroom surfaces.

5. Keep the Bathroom Floor Dry

Wipe up water promptly and use a secure non-slip mat outside the tub where needed.

6. Take It Slow

Rushing increases risk. Take time when standing, turning or stepping over the tub wall, and use installed supports as intended.

For people who want to keep their existing bathtub, a lower-entry tub cutout such as an Ultra-Low style conversion can be another way to reduce the step-in height.