1 in 6 Over-50s Feel Unsafe in Their Bathroom During Winter, New Survey Reveals

Concerns around bathroom safety are rising among older adults in the UK, according to new research.

Chesterfield, UK -- Concerns around bathroom safety are rising among older adults in the UK, according to new research commissioned by Age Care Bathrooms and carried out by YouGov.

The nationally representative survey of 1,008 UK adults aged 50 and over found that almost 1 in 6 either feel unsafe in their bathroom during winter or have already made adjustments to reduce the risk of falling.

The findings shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of ageing at home: maintaining safety and independence in spaces like bathrooms, which can become hazardous in colder months due to cold surfaces, reduced mobility, and increased fall risk.

8.2% of over-50s said they sometimes feel unsafe in their bathroom during winter. A further 9.1% have already made modifications to reduce risks such as installing grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, or accessible showers. This means 17.3% of older adults are either experiencing anxiety about safety or have taken action to prevent falls.

“The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home - especially in winter when cold conditions and mobility issues can turn daily routines into real hazards,” said Sam Davies, founder of Age Care Bathrooms.

“What this survey shows is that many older adults are already aware of the risks, but too often they’re left without the means or support to act on them.”

The survey also revealed stark differences between regions. Wales had the highest level of concern, with 11.7% feeling unsafe in their bathroom during winter. The East of England was the most proactive, with 13.6% reporting they had already made safety adjustments, the highest of any region.

These findings suggest that while concern is high, awareness and action vary significantly across the UK.

The survey also explored what home improvements would most improve winter living conditions for over-50s. While heating and insulation were top priorities, bathroom accessibility and safety ranked as a concern for many.

10.7% of all over-50s said easier-to-use bathrooms, such as walk-in showers, grab bars, or seating, would make the biggest difference to their winter living experience. In London, this figure rose to 14.3%, the highest of any region. In Wales, 15.4% said easier-to-use showers or baths, and 8% wanted safer bathroom flooring - also the highest in the UK.

“We talk a lot about heating support and energy bills, but personal safety is just as critical,” Davies added. “It’s not enough to stay warm - older adults need to feel safe and confident moving around their own homes, especially in the bathroom.”

The findings add to the growing national conversation around ageing and the importance of adapting homes to match the evolving needs of an older population. Bathroom safety often goes unaddressed until after a fall or injury has occurred despite being a leading cause of hospital admissions in older age.

With the UK’s over-50 population now numbering over 22 million, Age Care Bathrooms is calling for greater awareness of safety risks in the home, improved access to advice and funding for adaptations, and joined-up policy approaches to ageing at home that include bathroom accessibility as a core priority.

This research was commissioned by Age Care Bathrooms and conducted by YouGov. The online survey was completed in March 2025 and polled a nationally representative sample of 1,008 UK adults aged 50 and over. All figures are weighted to be representative of the UK population aged 50+.

About Age Care Bathrooms

Since 2012, Age Care Bathrooms has been dedicated to improving the lives of older adults through innovative, accessible bathroom adaptations that enhance safety, comfort, and independence. Alongside their products and services, the company is committed to helping customers navigate challenges like rising energy costs through practical advice and advocacy.

MEDIA CONTACT

Company: Age Care Bathrooms

Name: Sam Davies

Website: https://agecare-bathrooms.co.uk/

Email: sam@agecare-bathrooms.co.uk

Country: UK