Non-Slip Flooring

Textured, slip-resistant tiles or pre-textured shower pans are essential. Materials like matte porcelain, vinyl plank with grip, or stone-look acrylic with texture provide both traction and style.

Avoid glossy tile floors, which may look pretty but can be slippery when wet.

Grab Bars

Install grab bars at key points:

• Just outside the shower for entry/exit support
  
• Inside the shower for stability while standing
  
• Near the built-in bench or seating area
  
  

Modern grab bars come in stylish finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze, so they can match your overall aesthetic while being fully functional.

Built-In Shower Bench

A bench provides a place to sit while showering, which is not only safer but also more comfortable. You can opt for:

• A built-in bench with matching tile
  
• A fold-down teak or acrylic seat mounted to the wall
  
• A free-standing waterproof seat (less ideal for stability but an option)
  
  

Ensure the bench is located near the controls and handheld showerhead for ease of use.

Handheld Showerhead on a Slide Bar

A handheld showerhead gives users full control of water direction and pressure without needing to move around. Mount it on an adjustable slide bar, which also doubles as a secondary grab point.

Choose models with large, easy-to-use controls and a long hose for flexibility.

Future-Proofing Your Bathroom with Smart Additions

Even if you don’t currently need all of these accessibility features, adding them now during your remodel is smart. It saves time and money in the future and ensures your bathroom remodel evolves with your needs.

Here’s how to think ahead:

Reinforced Walls for Future Modifications

Install blocking behind the shower walls so that grab bars can be added later, even if you don’t need them immediately. This allows you to adapt the space without doing another major remodel down the road.

Comfort-Height Fixtures

Install a comfort-height toilet and a slightly taller vanity to reduce strain when sitting or standing.

Lever-Style Faucet Handles

Lever-style handles are easier to operate than knobs, especially for those with arthritis or reduced grip strength.

Touchless or Single-Handle Controls

Consider touchless faucets or single-lever temperature controls in your shower and sink. These are easier to use and help maintain a consistent water temperature.

Design Ideas That Blend Style and Accessibility

Today’s bathrooms prove you can have safety and beauty in the same space. Here are some design tips that blend universal design principles with modern aesthetics:

Large-Format Wall Panels

Instead of tile with grout lines, choose quartz slabs, solid surface panels, or acrylic wall systems. They’re easy to clean and look sleek and seamless.

Light, Neutral Color Palettes

Lighter colors make the space feel bigger and brighter, and they’re easier for aging eyes to navigate. Go for warm whites, soft grays, or light beige tones.

Statement Fixtures

Use stylish grab bars and fixtures in trending finishes (like matte black or satin brass) to tie your bathroom remodeling together and elevate the look.

Glass Enclosures

A frameless glass shower enclosure makes the room feel open and eliminates bulky visual barriers. Opt for clear glass with an anti-spot coating to reduce cleaning time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Converting for Aging in Place

To get the most value out of your remodel, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

❌ Not Planning for Future Needs

Don’t just remodel for your current needs—plan for five, ten, or even fifteen years down the road. Reinforce walls, install wide doorways, and create open floor plans wherever possible.

❌ Overlooking Lighting

Poor lighting is a safety hazard. Include a combination of overhead lighting, task lighting near the vanity, and waterproof lighting in the shower. Consider motion-sensor lights or nightlights for evening use.

❌ Choosing Slippery Surfaces

Avoid glossy tiles or polished stone floors. Even if they look elegant, they’re a slip risk. Choose textured, matte surfaces instead.

❌ Ignoring Storage Accessibility

Keep toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies easily accessible. Drawers with soft-close hardware and pull-out shelves reduce bending or reaching.

Is a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Right for You?

Ask yourself these key questions:

• Are you or a loved one planning to age in place?
  
• Is stepping into your current tub becoming difficult or risky?
  
• Do you want a low-maintenance, modern bathroom?
  
• Are you remodeling now and want to plan for future needs?
  
  

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then a tub-to-shower conversion designed for aging in place is a smart, forward-thinking choice.

 

What to Expect During the Tub-to-Shower Conversion Process

Understanding what the process involves can help reduce stress and ensure you’re prepared. A tub-to-shower conversion tailored for aging in place follows a clear series of steps to ensure both safety and quality.

Step 1: Consultation and Planning

Your contractor will meet with you to assess your space, discuss your needs, and recommend design solutions. If aging in place is a priority, this is when you’ll select accessible features like grab bars, benches, and handheld showerheads.

Step 2: Demolition and Prep

The existing bathtub and surrounding materials are carefully removed. If needed, plumbing is updated to suit the new shower layout. Reinforcements are added behind walls for future safety features.

Step 3: Installation

The new shower base, walls, plumbing fixtures, seating, and accessories are installed. Wall panels or tile are sealed to prevent moisture issues, and any custom features are added with precision.

Step 4: Final Walkthrough

You and the contractor review the finished project together. Adjustments are made if needed, and you’ll receive guidance on cleaning and maintenance.

The full process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the level of customization.

Why Work with a Specialist in Accessible Bathroom Remodeling

When remodeling for aging in place, it’s essential to choose a contractor who understands the unique needs of accessibility design. This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function, safety, and long-term comfort.

A specialist will:

• Design with empathy, considering both your current and future needs.
  
  
• Recommend code-compliant and ADA-inspired features without making the space feel clinical.
  
• Ensure proper installation of grab bars, benches, and plumbing for safe, worry-free use.
  
• Help you balance beauty and practicality, so your bathroom still feels like a relaxing, stylish space—not a medical facility.
  
  

Working with an experienced, accessibility-focused contractor means fewer missteps, better safety outcomes, and peace of mind. At Justus Bath, we’ve helped many homeowners upgrade their bathrooms not just for today—but for the future. Whether you’re planning ahead or need improvements now, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Ready to start planning your accessible bathroom remodel?

A tub-to-shower conversion tailored for aging in place is more than a convenience—it’s an investment in long-term safety, independence, and comfort. By prioritizing accessibility now, you can create a bathroom that serves your needs today and adapts with you as time goes on.

At Justus Bath, we specialize in accessible bathroom remodeling, including custom tub-to-shower conversions that are both beautiful and functional. Our team works closely with you to ensure every detail—from layout to materials—is designed with care and precision.

Contact Justus Bath today for a free consultation and let us help you build a bathroom that’s safe, stylish, and truly built to last.