A simple trip to the bathroom shouldn’t result in a trip to the emergency room. Yet for many seniors and individuals with mobility challenges, the bathroom is one of the most dangerous places in the home.
During a recent interview on WGN Radio with John Williams, Access CEO Frank Wasilewski discussed the importance of home accessibility and the practical modifications that can help people stay safe, independent, and comfortable in their own homes.
The Hidden Danger in Every Home
According to Frank, more than 80% of falls that result in injury inside the home occur in the bathroom. While many homeowners focus on obvious hazards like stairs or outdoor walkways, bathrooms often present the greatest risk.
“Usually, it’s getting in and out of the tub,” Frank explained. “You have that high step, and then you’re stepping onto a surface that isn’t completely flat. One wrong step can throw your balance off, and suddenly you’re falling.”
When a fall occurs in a bathroom, the consequences can be severe. Hard surfaces, limited space, and nearby fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and shower walls can increase the likelihood of serious injury.
Accessibility Isn’t Just for Seniors
While many people associate accessibility modifications with aging, Access serves individuals of all ages and abilities.
Whether someone is recovering from surgery, managing a disability, or simply experiencing mobility challenges, making a home safer can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of injury.
“Our focus is fall prevention,” Frank said. “Anything we can do to help make your house safer and keep you from having that medical emergency, we’re there to help.”
The Most Effective Safety Upgrades
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “What’s the best way to make my bathroom safer?”
The answer depends on individual needs, but some of the most effective solutions include:
Grab Bars
Grab bars remain the number one bathroom safety solution. They provide stability when entering and exiting showers, standing from the toilet, or moving around slippery surfaces.
In fact, Access installs more than 2,000 grab bars every month, helping families across the Midwest improve safety and confidence at home.
Tub Modifications
For individuals who struggle to step over a traditional bathtub wall, several options are available:
- Tub cut-outs to reduce step-over height
- Bath lifts that assist users in getting in and out safely
- Walk-in tubs for long-term accessibility needs
Bathroom Renovations
For homeowners requiring more extensive accessibility solutions, complete bathroom renovations can transform a dangerous space into one that supports independence and mobility.
Aging in Place with Confidence
Many families want their loved ones to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Accessibility modifications make that goal more achievable.
Simple upgrades often prevent injuries, reduce caregiver concerns, and allow individuals to maintain their independence without sacrificing safety.
The best part? Many improvements can be completed quickly and affordably, often before a mobility challenge becomes a crisis.
Schedule a Free Home Safety Consultation
If you or a loved one are concerned about fall risks at home, now is the perfect time to take action.
Access provides free consultations to evaluate your home’s safety and recommend solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you’re looking for grab bars, stairlifts, ramps, bathroom modifications, or a complete accessibility renovation, the Access team is here to help.