Accessible and aging-in-place bathrooms

What usually changes

• The tub comes out. A step-over tub edge is the most common hazard. A low or curbless shower replaces it.
• Grab bars with real backing. A grab bar is only as strong as what it is screwed into. With the walls open, solid blocking goes in exactly where the bars will be, and where more could go later.
• A place to sit. A built-in bench or a fold-down seat, with a handheld shower within reach.
• Floors that grip. Smaller tile or a textured finish, and no raised thresholds.
• A comfort-height toilet and room beside it for a support rail.
• Wider doorways and lever handles where a walker or wheelchair needs to pass.
• Better light, including a night light path from the bedroom.

Planning it with the whole family

The right bathroom depends on the person using it: how they move now, and how that may change. Lenny walks the room with whoever will use it, and with the family member helping, before drawing anything up.

Where a shower goes curbless, the floor has to be recessed or sloped so water stays in. That is decided at the start of the job, not the end, which is why it helps to plan the whole room at once.