You’ve done the hard work of house hunting, made the right offer, and finally settled into your dream home. Naturally, you want to enjoy it for as long as possible—maybe even for the rest of your life. But as we age, our needs change, especially in the spaces we rely on every day, like the bathroom. That’s why “aging in place” has become a top priority for many homeowners planning ahead to create a safe, comfortable, and accessible environment for the future. At Southwestern Remodeling, a trusted name in bathroom remodeling in Wichita, Kansas, we know how important it is to design a home that works for you at every stage of life. Below, we’re sharing some key considerations to keep in mind when creating an aging-in-place bathroom!
We get it. Nobody likes to talk about getting older. But the truth is by doing so, you can save yourself money on costly future repairs and the pain of significant renovation disruptions. Much of the remodeling process focuses on making a home easier and safer to navigate as mobility, balance, and vision needs evolve over time. For the bathroom specifically, this often means rethinking the layout, choosing safer materials, and incorporating features that reduce the risk of slips and falls. But aging-in-place design isn’t just about function—it’s also about comfort and independence. So, how exactly do you achieve that?
Before you get around to renovating the bathroom, you’ll need to make sure you can actually get into the bathroom. Standard doorways are typically 24 to 30 inches wide, which can feel narrow for individuals using a walker or wheelchair. When designing with aging-in-place considerations in mind, our experts at Southwestern Remodeling, the premier choice for bathroom remodeling in Wichita, recommend at least 32 to 36 inches. This extra space can reduce the risk of bumping elbows and shoulders while passing through! Pocket doors can also be great options for saving space and providing a simpler, more automated open and closing motion.
As you age, it’s natural to need more lighting. The last thing you want is to slip on a wet floor or run into a sharp cabinet corner because you simply couldn’t see it. When designing your bathroom, prioritize lighting—the more, the better! Layered lighting (think overhead fixtures, vanity lighting, and even motion-sensor nightlights) can help improve the safety and comfort of your space. Add additional task lighting around mirrors and sinks for enhanced precision when grooming, and opt for fixtures that minimize glare.
Bathrooms can be an incredibly hazardous environment for all aged individuals. They are naturally high-moisture areas, making it easier to slip and fall. To eliminate such safety concerns, choosing the right flooring material is key. While slick tile may look beautiful and be your first choice design-wise, it can quickly become dangerous when wet. If you’re looking to age in your current home, consider more slip-resistant materials like textured porcelain, vinyl, or rubber flooring designed specifically for wet environments.
Keep it comfortable with your fixtures! We’re talking toilets, showers, and sinks—small updates that can make your bathroom more functional on a daily basis. Search for comfort-height toilets that sit a few inches higher than standard models and upgrade to a walk-in shower with low or no thresholds. If needed, you can also add a custom, built-in shower bench for a comfortable, safe place to sit.
Expert Tip: Don’t forget the grab bars! Modern grab bars are available in endless designs and can blend seamlessly with your current space. Install them anywhere you need extra support, such as near the toilet, inside the shower, or by the vanity.
Are you ready to start your bathroom remodel? Our team at Southwestern Remodeling specializes in bathroom remodeling in Wichita and offers free in-home consultations to all new customers. We encourage you to contact us at (316) 263-1239 to schedule yours today!
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