All You Need to Know About Walk-In Showers and Grab Bars

Last Updated On: Jul 25, 2022

With aging comes serious concerns of accessibility in the home – especially the bathroom. More than three million seniors are treated for falls each year, and steps are one of the top home hazards that contribute to falls. Stepping into a shower or bathtub can be one of the riskiest challenges that seniors must face in their daily lives.

While walk-in tubs are an option for some, those who can’t step into or transfer to a tub, or otherwise wish to bathe independently from a wheelchair, must seek a walk-in shower. These showers may have little or no “curb” at the bottom, making it possible to step right in without having to step over the side of a tub.

Walk-In Shower Safety Features

Showers are more customizable and can be accessorized with more safety features than a walk-in tub. Seats and grab bars are the top two features of a walk-in shower.

  • Seat: From a single seat to as large as a bench seat, the seating options in a walk-in shower depend on the shower size and user preference. An affixed seat can provide a place to rest while bathing, and provide more stability than a shower chair.
  • Grab Bars: Unlike tubs, a walk-in shower’s walls mean that a grab bar can be installed almost anywhere on the walls. These grab bars can promote a safer bathing experience by further reducing the risk of falls.

Top 3 Walk-in Showers for Seniors

A walk-in shower doesn’t have to be an expensive construction project. Walk-in showers can be purchased as one solid unit that typically fits in an existing tub or shower space. Any handyman service or perhaps a handy relative with some tools could install such a system.

Here are the top three options to consider when choosing a walk-in shower for seniors.

1. American Walk-in Tubs’ Low Step Walk-In Shower

This shower features a curb of just four inches in a modern, minimalist design. A recessed shampoo and soap caddy reduces unsightly clutter that may also pose a falling hazard. A magnetic shower curtain system is included to control water and prevent leakage.

Features:

  • Anti-scald technology
  • Built-in foldable safety chair supporting up to 350 pounds
  • Commercial grade anti-slip floor
  • 24-inch long safety grab bar
  • Easy to use and access controls

2. Safe Step Walk-In Shower

This shower features a three-inch step and a minimal design with many different customization options. Various seating, door, and metal finish options can tailor the tub to the existing bathroom while meeting all functionality needs.

Features:

  • Anti-scald technology
  • Three different seating options supporting up to 548 pounds
  • Commercial grade anti-slip floor
  • Accessible, easy to operate controls
  • Two corner storage caddies
  • Sliding glass door option

3. Independent Home Walk-In Shower System

This shower system offers a low-profile step and is made in a 60-inch length that fits standard bathtub spaces. While lacking some customization options, the shower is simple and durable with all of the safety features needed for a safer bathing experience.

Features:

  • Large built-in seat
  • Two grab bars
  • Easy to use controls
  • Anti-slip flooring
  • Wheelchair accessible option
  • Glass door option

Top 2 Safety Grab Bars for Seniors

For added safety in the walk-in shower, grab bars are a good idea to install if not already included. Grab bars may be permanently installed into a shower using anchored hardware, or removable grab bars may be affixed and repositioned as needed.

Here are two grab bars for a safer, more accessible shower:

Movable Grab Bar – Vive Suction Shower Grab Bar

This grab bar is designed with suction cups, allowing one to position or reposition on the surface of the shower wall as needed – no installation required. Integrated color indicators turn green when the device is secured to the wall, and red when unsecured. The handle is textured and includes finger molds for improved grip. Lift tabs allow easy moving when needed. Despite its movability, the grab bar supports up to 300 pounds.

Permanent Grab Bar – Sumnacon Shower Grab Bar with Textured Grip

This stainless-steel grab bar is a simple design with a textured grip. It mounts to the wall with hardware that requires drilling, making it a sturdy and reliable option that will remain in place. It’s also available in 12-inch or 16-inch sizes for compatibility with existing shower spaces.

One more safety measure to take is to get a medical alert system with a receiver in the bathroom so if a fall does occur, your loved one can access help in that emergency.

When it comes to our loved one’s safety, especially at the senior stage of life, it’s a good idea to make changes that make the home safer and reduce the risk of falls. Walk-in showers and grab bars go a long way in increasing a senior’s safety in the bathroom.