Fall-Proofing the Bathroom: Simple Safety Tips for Seniors & NDIS Participants

Oscar Leon Cranny
Jun 26
3 min read

The bathroom is one of the most common places for slips and falls; especially for older adults and people living with mobility challenges.

With hard surfaces, water, and limited space, a simple trip can cause serious injury.

Fortunately, a few simple changes can make your bathroom safer and easier to navigate, helping to maintain independence and peace of mind. People aged 85 and over were most likely to be injured by falls, with 10,283 people being hospitalised per 100,000. Most of the falls that occur on the same level (not stairs), are caused by slipping and tripping.

So, here’s how to help fall-proof your bathroom starting today.

🚿 1. Install Grab Bars

Grab bars are one of the most effective and affordable safety upgrades. Install them near:

The shower entrance
Inside the shower or bath
Beside the toilet

Tip: Make sure they are screwed into wall studs — not suction-cup bars, which can be unreliable.

🛁 2. Use a Non-Slip Bath Mat or Sticker

Standard bath mats can bunch or slide, increasing risk. Instead:

Use non-slip rubber mats with a grip underneath
Apply anti-slip adhesive strips to the base of the tub
Make sure bathmats are securely anchored if used outside the shower

💡 Bonus: Replace tiled floors with vinyl for even more safety.

🚽 3. Add a Raised Toilet Seat or Toilet Frame

Getting on and off the toilet can be difficult with limited hip or knee mobility. Adding a raised toilet seat or freestanding frame with armrests can:

Reduce effort and strain
Provide extra balance
Prevent knee buckling or dizziness-related falls

🧑‍⚕️ These are NDIS-fundable items in many plans — ask your provider.

🧼 4. Keep Frequently Used Items Within Reach

Bending down or reaching up can increase the risk of losing balance. Set up a shower caddy or shelf at arm height to hold:

Shampoo and soap
Towels or face cloths
Shaving or skincare items

Avoid placing items on the floor of the shower or bath edge — this invites unnecessary movement.

🌡️ 5. Watch for Temperature Hazards

Sudden changes in water temperature can cause shock, dizziness, or burns.

Here’s how to manage this:

Install a thermostatic mixing valve to regulate hot water
Keep the hot water system below 50°C
Test the temperature before stepping in
Install a bathroom heat lamp on your ceiling

🔥 Cold weather can also tighten joints — warm the bathroom first, where possible.

🪞 6. Improve Bathroom Lighting

Poor lighting can make it hard to spot water spills or obstacles.

Try:

Installing motion-sensor night lights
Using bright, soft white bulbs
Cleaning or replacing fogged or dim light fixtures

💡 Ensure light switches are within reach when entering the bathroom.

🧺 7. Keep Floors Dry & Clear

Spills, condensation, and even a small towel on the ground can lead to slips.

Use squeegees or absorbent mats after showering
Place a small laundry basket for used towels
Store cleaning products and bins out of the walkways

Final Thought: Safety = Independence

Many older adults feel anxious about using the bathroom independently, but you don’t have to sacrifice dignity for safety. Small adjustments can create a safer, more confident daily routine for yourself or a loved one.

💬 Need Help Setting Up a Safer Home?

At Arriba Physio, we work with NDIS participants, families, and seniors to:

Assess home safety needs
Recommend and source mobility aids
Deliver personalised physio & allied health support directly to your home

📲 Reach out today for a home safety consultation or ask us about eligible NDIS supports.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is general in nature and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor, physiotherapist, or healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or home environment. Arriba Physio is not liable for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the use of this information.