Roll-In Showers vs. Transfer Benches: Designing an Accessible Bathroom

Choosing between a roll-in shower and a transfer bench shapes daily independence, safety and remodel scope for wheelchair users. This article compares both solutions in detail—design features, real-world pros and cons, regulatory and funding considerations, and step-by-step decision guidance—so you can pick the option that best fits mobility, space, budget and long-term needs.

Table of Contents

Evaluating user needs and home constraints

Before you can decide between a roll-in shower and a transfer bench, you need to step back and do a thorough assessment. The best bathing solution is the one that fits the user’s specific abilities, the caregiver’s workflow, and the physical constraints of the home. This isn’t just about picking a product; it’s about designing a safe and functional space for daily life.

Profiling the User’s Needs
Every person’s situation is unique. Start by creating a detailed profile of the user’s abilities and challenges. This profile will be your guide.

Mobility and Wheelchair Type. Does the user have a manual or power wheelchair? Power chairs are typically heavier, wider, and have a larger turning radius, demanding more space. A manual chair user might have the upper body strength to assist in transfers, which could make a bench a viable option.
Transfer Ability. This is a critical factor. Can the user transfer independently? Do they need standby assistance, one-person physical help, or a two-person lift? A person who can perform a standing pivot or a sliding board transfer might manage well with a transfer bench. Someone who needs to be fully lifted or must bathe while seated in a shower commode chair requires a roll-in shower.
Physical Strength and Balance. Assess upper body strength for pushing, pulling, and stabilizing during a transfer. Good core strength and balance are essential for safely using a transfer bench. If balance is unreliable, a zero-threshold roll-in shower eliminates the risky step of moving over a tub wall.
Sensory and Cognitive Factors. Consider any sensory limitations. For someone with low vision, the clear, open space of a roll-in shower can be less confusing than navigating a bench. Cognitive concerns, like memory or difficulty with sequencing tasks, also play a role. A simpler, more direct bathing process, like rolling straight into a shower, can reduce confusion and anxiety.

Conducting a Home Site Survey
Next, grab a tape measure, a notepad, and your phone’s camera. Documenting your current bathroom layout is non-negotiable. Take photos from every angle and get precise measurements.

Doorway and Path. Measure the clear width of the bathroom doorway with the door fully open. This is the space from the door jamb to the edge of the door. A minimum of 32 inches is often cited, but 36 inches provides more comfortable access for larger chairs. Also, note the path from the bedroom to the bathroom. Is it straight or does it involve tight turns?
Bathroom Footprint. Measure the bathroom’s interior wall-to-wall length and width. This determines the maximum space available for a new shower or for maneuvering around a bench. A standard roll-in shower requires a minimum clear space of 30 by 60 inches, but more is always better.
Turning Radius. Find an open area and measure the space your wheelchair needs to make a 360-degree turn. For most chairs, this is a 60-inch diameter circle. Does your bathroom have this much clear floor space? If not, a major remodel might be necessary for a roll-in shower.
Existing Fixtures and Heights. Measure your current tub or shower stall. Note the height of any thresholds or curbs. Even a half-inch lip can be an insurmountable barrier. Also, measure the distance from the shower area to the toilet and sink, as this affects transfer paths and caregiver access. Check the ceiling height, which can impact the installation of certain fixtures or prefabricated shower units.

Caregiver Workflow and Long-Term Planning
If a caregiver is involved, their needs are just as important. A transfer bench can sometimes position the user awkwardly, making it difficult for a caregiver to provide assistance without straining. A roll-in shower provides 360-degree access, allowing a caregiver to position themselves safely and effectively. Think about the future, too. A transfer bench may be a good solution today, but will it still work if mobility declines in five years? A roll-in shower is a more permanent investment in aging-in-place and aligns with universal design principles, which can also improve your home’s resale value.

Decision Triggers at a Glance
To simplify your choice, here are some clear indicators.

A roll-in shower is likely the best choice if the user relies on a wheelchair full-time, cannot bear weight or safely transfer over a tub wall, requires a shower commode chair for bathing, or needs assistance from one or more caregivers inside the shower space.
A transfer bench may be a suitable option if the user can transfer independently or with minimal help, the bathroom footprint is too small for a remodel, you are renting, or you need a lower-cost and less permanent solution. For a deeper look at different bench styles, this article on shower benches versus transfer systems offers helpful comparisons.

Finally, gather your notes, measurements, and photos. The next crucial step is to consult with a clinical professional, such as an occupational or physical therapist. They can perform a comprehensive mobility assessment and provide an expert recommendation tailored to the user’s functional abilities. Their input is invaluable in making a decision that truly enhances safety and independence.

Roll-in shower features benefits and tradeoffs

After assessing your personal needs and the physical constraints of your home, the next step is to explore the specific solutions available. A roll-in shower represents the gold standard for wheelchair accessibility, offering a level of independence that other options often can’t match. But what exactly is it, and what does installing one entail? Let’s break down the features, benefits, and practical trade-offs of this design.

A roll-in shower, also known as a curbless or zero-entry shower, is designed without a curb or threshold at the entrance. The bathroom floor flows seamlessly into the shower stall, allowing a wheelchair user to roll directly in without needing to navigate any barriers. This design is built around a few core features that work together to ensure safety and functionality. The most critical is the floor, which is carefully sloped toward a drain to contain water. This slope is subtle, usually about a quarter-inch drop per foot, so it doesn’t impede wheelchair movement. Drains are either low-profile circular models or, more commonly in modern designs, linear drains that run along one edge of the shower. These linear drains are very effective at catching water across a wider area.

Inside, you’ll typically find a wall-mounted, fold-down seat. While it seems counterintuitive to have a seat in a shower you can roll into, it’s a vital feature. It provides a stable surface to transfer onto from the wheelchair, allowing for more thorough bathing and giving the user a break from sitting in a wet shower chair. A handheld showerhead on a long, flexible hose is another non-negotiable element. It allows a seated user or a caregiver to direct the water precisely where it’s needed. Finally, all controls, including thermostatic valves that prevent scalding, are placed at a lower, accessible height, as recommended by ADA guidelines. You can find detailed specifications in guides like the one from the U.S. Access Board.

The size and layout of a roll-in shower are crucial for usability. The ADA recommends a minimum interior size of 30 inches by 60 inches to provide adequate space for a wheelchair user to maneuver. This size accommodates both a forward approach, where the user might remain in a shower-safe wheelchair, and a parallel approach, which is necessary for transferring to a fold-down bench. The depth and width must account for the wheelchair’s turning radius and provide enough clearance for a caregiver to assist if needed. Always verify local building codes and ADA standards, as they provide the baseline for safe and functional design.

Achieving a curbless entry involves significant construction. Unlike a standard shower pan that sits on top of the subfloor, a roll-in shower floor must be flush with the rest of the bathroom. In a retrofit, this often means cutting into the floor joists to lower the shower area, a complex structural change that requires a skilled contractor. The entire area must then be meticulously waterproofed before the final sloped mortar bed and tile are installed. For new construction, this can be planned from the start, making it simpler. Safety is paramount, so the flooring material must be slip-resistant. Small tiles with more grout lines naturally provide better grip, and many modern tiles come with a high dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) rating specifically for wet areas. Grab bars are essential and should be installed strategically on the back and side walls to support movement and transfers.

The primary benefit of a roll-in shower is the unparalleled independence it offers. It’s a long-term solution that adapts to changing mobility needs, making it a cornerstone of aging-in-place design. However, the trade-offs are significant. The cost is the most substantial barrier; a professional installation can be expensive, often running into several thousand dollars due to the labor-intensive structural work. You can get a sense of current pricing from resources like Angi. The remodel is also disruptive and can sometimes require reconfiguring the entire bathroom layout, potentially sacrificing storage space like a linen closet or vanity.

When planning your project, think carefully about the details. A fold-down seat offers more flexibility than a fixed, built-in bench. Pay close attention to the drain’s capacity and placement to prevent water from escaping into the main bathroom area. Most importantly, ensure the final design is based on the specific dimensions of the user’s wheelchair. Before committing, consult with a licensed contractor who has proven experience with accessible, curbless showers. Bringing an occupational therapist into the planning process is also a wise investment, as they can provide invaluable input to ensure the design truly meets the user’s functional needs for safe, independent bathing.

Transfer bench options benefits and tradeoffs

While a full roll-in shower offers the highest level of independence, a transfer bench is a powerful and affordable tool that makes an existing bathtub or shower stall accessible. It acts as a bridge, creating a safe, seated path from a wheelchair into the bathing area without requiring a user to step over a high tub wall or navigate a shower curb. This solution is particularly valuable when a major renovation isn’t feasible due to budget, rental agreements, or temporary needs.

Understanding the Types of Transfer Benches

Not all transfer benches are the same. The right choice depends on your bathroom layout and specific transfer needs.

Portable Tub Transfer Benches
This is the most common type. It features two legs that rest inside the bathtub and two legs that stand on the bathroom floor, straddling the tub wall. The user sits on the portion of the bench outside the tub, swings their legs over the wall, and scoots across the seat to get under the showerhead. They are highly portable and require no installation.
Shower Transfer Benches
Designed for showers with a low curb or curbless entry, these benches are wider than a standard shower chair. They provide a larger seating area, allowing a user to sit down near the entrance and then slide over into the water stream. All four legs typically remain inside the shower stall.
Bench-to-Shower Combination Systems
These are more advanced systems that often include sliding or swiveling seats. The user transfers to the seat outside the shower, and then the seat itself glides or rotates into the bathing area. These systems, like those detailed in this comparison of benches and transfer systems, significantly reduce the physical effort and friction involved in scooting, making them a great option for users with limited strength or sensitive skin.
Custom Fixed Benches
A permanent solution, these benches are built directly into the shower stall and are typically finished with tile to match the surrounding walls. While not portable, they offer maximum stability and can be designed to the exact height and depth specifications of the primary user.

Seat Dimensions and Weight Capacity

Sizing for Safety
A proper fit is non-negotiable for safety. Most standard transfer bench seats are between 24 and 32 inches wide to provide ample room for the transfer. Seat depth is equally important; look for a depth of at least 18 to 20 inches to ensure full thigh support and stability. Always check the weight capacity. Standard models typically support 300 to 400 pounds, but bariatric models are widely available and rated for 500, 600, or even more pounds. Choosing a bench rated well above the user’s weight adds a crucial margin of safety.

Essential Safety Features and Accessories

Modern transfer benches come with a variety of features designed to enhance safety and comfort.

Adjustable Legs and Non-Slip Feet
Independently adjustable legs are a must. They allow you to level the bench, ensuring one side can be slightly lower in the tub while the other side is higher on the bathroom floor. Large, rubber, suction-cup style feet provide the best grip on wet surfaces.
Armrests and Backrests
A backrest provides support and prevents the user from leaning back too far. An armrest on the exterior side offers a stable point to push off from during transfers. Many models have reversible backrests and armrests to accommodate left or right-sided entries.
Drainage and Transfer Cutouts
Small holes across the seat surface allow water to drain away, preventing pooling. Some benches also feature a larger “perineal cutout,” which allows for easier access for personal cleaning.

Use Cases and Important Limitations

When a Transfer Bench Works Best
A transfer bench is an excellent solution for individuals who have enough upper body strength to lift and shift their weight and can lift their legs over the tub wall, with or without assistance. It’s a go-to choice for post-surgery recovery, for use in rental properties where modifications are forbidden, or as a cost-effective alternative to a full remodel. It allows for safe, seated bathing and reduces the risk of falls associated with stepping into a tub.

When a Transfer Bench is NOT Advisable
This solution is not for everyone. A transfer bench may be unsafe if the user lacks the trunk control or upper body strength to safely scoot across the seat. It is also not ideal if the bathroom is too small to allow for a safe wheelchair approach and pivot. Critically, consider caregiver ergonomics. If a caregiver must consistently perform heavy lifting or twist their body to assist with the transfer, it creates a high risk of injury for both parties. In these cases, a roll-in shower is a much safer long-term solution.

Installation, Care, and Fit Guidance

Setup for Success
Most portable benches require minimal, tool-free assembly. The key to a safe setup is proper height adjustment. The bench seat should be set to be level with or slightly higher than the wheelchair seat cushion to make the lateral transfer easier. Place the bench so that the user can comfortably reach the shower controls and a securely mounted grab bar. A vertical grab bar on the entry side and a horizontal grab bar on the back wall provide stable handholds for pulling and stabilization.

A Real-World Example
For a tub setup, position the bench so two legs are firmly inside the tub and two are on the floor. The user approaches parallel to the tub, locks their wheelchair brakes, and transfers onto the dry part of the bench. They then lift their legs, one at a time, over the tub wall. Using the armrest and a grab bar, they scoot fully into the tub. A handheld showerhead is essential, as the fixed showerhead will likely be out of reach. To minimize caregiver strain, a caregiver can assist by blocking the user’s knees with their own and guiding the hips across, rather than lifting the user’s full body weight.

Maintenance
Preventing mildew is key. Wipe the bench down after use and clean it weekly with a bathroom cleaner. Regularly check that the leg adjustment pins are secure and that the rubber feet have not cracked or hardened over time.

Practical comparison decision matrix cost and funding options

Making the right choice between a roll-in shower and a transfer bench involves more than just personal preference. It’s a decision that balances independence, safety, your home’s layout, and your budget. Let’s break down the practical details to help you find the best fit for your life.

Side-by-Side Comparison

To get a clear picture, here’s how these two options stack up against each other across key factors.

Feature	Roll-In Shower	Transfer Bench
Independence Level	High. Allows users to wheel directly into the shower space, often without any assistance. Promotes self-sufficiency.	Moderate to High. Requires upper body strength to lift legs over the tub or shower curb. Some users may need caregiver assistance for the transfer.
Safety	Excellent. Eliminates the need to navigate a curb or tub wall, significantly reducing the risk of slips and falls during transfers.	Good. Provides a stable, seated surface for transfers, which is much safer than standing. However, the transfer itself still presents a risk point.
Footprint & Space	Large. Requires a significant amount of bathroom space, typically a minimum of 60 x 30 inches for the shower itself, plus clearance for maneuvering a wheelchair.	Small to Moderate. The bench itself takes up space inside and outside the tub, but it doesn’t require a full bathroom remodel. Fits in most standard bathrooms.
Installation Complexity	High. A major construction project involving demolition, plumbing, waterproofing, tiling, and potentially moving walls. Requires professional contractors.	Low. Most portable models require minimal, tool-free assembly. Fixed benches may need professional installation but it’s a minor job compared to a remodel.
Maintenance Needs	Moderate. Requires regular cleaning of the floor, drain, and walls to prevent mildew. The curbless design means ensuring the drain remains clear is critical to prevent water overflow.	Low. Simple to wipe down and clean. Portable models can be easily removed for deep cleaning of the bench and the tub/shower area.
Durability	Very High. Built as a permanent fixture of the home, designed to last for decades with proper installation and materials.	Good. High-quality benches are durable, but plastic and metal parts can wear out over years of use and may need replacement.
Resale Value Impact	Positive. A well-designed, accessible bathroom is a significant selling point and can increase home value, appealing to a broader market of buyers.	Neutral. As a portable piece of equipment, it’s typically taken with the user when they move and does not affect the home’s value.

Typical Costs and What Drives Price Differences

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial. Costs can vary widely based on your location, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the job. Always get multiple local quotes.

Portable Transfer Benches
These are the most affordable option, typically ranging from $75 to $300. Prices increase for models with more features like padded seats, higher weight capacities, or sliding mechanisms.

DIY Tub-to-Shower Conversion Kits
For those on a tight budget with some DIY skills, kits that create a cutout in an existing fiberglass or acrylic tub can cost between $300 and $1,000. This doesn’t create a true roll-in shower but can lower the barrier for stepping over.

Full Roll-In Shower Conversion
This is a significant investment. According to current data from home service sites, a standard conversion can range from $4,000 to $10,000. This includes demolition of the old tub/shower, plumbing adjustments, a new shower pan, waterproofing, tile, fixtures, and grab bars.

High-End Custom Remodeling
For a complete luxury accessible bathroom, costs can easily exceed $15,000 to $25,000+. This could include expanding the bathroom, installing heated floors, high-end tile and fixtures, custom glass enclosures, and integrated lighting.

Regulatory and Code Considerations

While you might be modifying your private home, understanding codes is essential for safety and legality.

ADA Standards
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards are legally required for public and commercial buildings, not private residences. However, they are the gold standard for accessibility design. Following ADA guidelines for things like grab bar placement, turning radius, and seat height is highly recommended to ensure maximum safety and functionality.

Local Building Codes
Any major renovation, especially one involving plumbing and structural changes, must comply with local building codes. This is non-negotiable. You will likely need to pull permits for plumbing and electrical work. A licensed contractor will handle this process. Failure to comply can result in fines and safety hazards.

Funding and Assistance Pathways in the USA

The cost of a major remodel can be daunting, but several programs may offer financial assistance. You’ll need to research what’s available in your state and what you qualify for.

Medicaid Waivers. Many states offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can cover costs for “environmental accessibility modifications.” Contact your state’s Medicaid office to learn about specific programs like Money Follows the Person.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Grants. The VA offers several grants for disabled veterans, including the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Home Adaptation (SHA), and Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants. These are specifically designed to fund home modifications.
Nonprofits and Community Organizations. Groups like Rebuilding Together, the National Council on Independent Living, and local Area Agencies on Aging often have programs or can connect you with resources to help fund or complete accessibility projects.
State Assistive Technology Programs. Every state has an AT program that can provide information on low-interest loans or other financial aid for purchasing assistive technology and making home modifications.
Medicare and Private Insurance. This is a frequent point of confusion. Original Medicare (Part A and B) generally does not cover home modifications like roll-in showers, as they are not considered “durable medical equipment.” However, a transfer bench may be covered under Part B as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) if a doctor deems it medically necessary and prescribes it. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer supplemental benefits that cover home modifications, but you must verify with your specific plan. Private insurance policies vary widely, so you must contact your provider directly to ask about coverage.

Decision Tools and Next Steps

To simplify your choice, use this checklist to rank your priorities.

Decision Matrix – Rank what’s most important to you (1 = Highest, 4 = Lowest)

Safety First. My top priority is minimizing fall risk above all else.
Budget Constraints. I have a fixed, limited budget for this project.
Future Needs. I am planning for a potential decline in mobility and want a permanent solution.
Minimal Disruption. I cannot handle a long, messy construction project right now.

If safety and future needs are your top priorities and budget allows, a roll-in shower is likely the best long-term solution. If budget and minimal disruption are key, a transfer bench is an excellent and immediate choice.

Frequently Asked Questions common concerns answered

Which is safer for an independent wheelchair user, a roll-in shower or a transfer bench?
Safety depends entirely on the individual’s strength, balance, and transfer ability. For a user who can confidently and independently perform a seated transfer, a transfer bench can be very safe. It provides a stable, seated surface to bridge the gap over a tub wall or shower curb, minimizing the risk of a fall. For a user who cannot safely transfer, needs to bathe in a shower commode chair, or has poor balance, a roll-in shower is significantly safer as it eliminates the transfer step altogether.

Can I convert my existing tub to a roll-in shower, and what does that involve?
Yes, this is a common and transformative renovation. The process is extensive and involves several key steps. First, the existing bathtub and surrounding tile must be completely demolished and removed. Next, a plumber will need to relocate the drain and adjust the water supply lines for the new shower controls and head. The most critical step is creating a new shower pan with a gentle, consistent slope toward the drain to ensure water doesn’t pool or escape into the bathroom. This is followed by waterproofing the entire area, installing new tile or a solid-surface surround, and finally, installing fixtures and grab bars. It is a complex job that requires professional expertise in plumbing, carpentry, and tiling.

What are simple, interim solutions I can use while planning a full remodel?
You can significantly improve safety while you plan and save for a larger project. Start with a high-quality, portable transfer bench that extends over the side of your existing tub. Pair this with a long-hose, handheld showerhead to allow for seated bathing. Install non-slip mats or adhesive strips both inside and outside the tub. Finally, consider professionally installed, wall-mounted grab bars; even if you remodel later, their placement can inform the final design.

How do I determine the correct grab bar placement and height for transfers?
While ADA guidelines suggest a height of 33 to 36 inches from the floor, this is a starting point, not a universal rule. The ideal placement is highly personal. An occupational therapist is the best professional to help with this. They will assess the user’s height, reach, weight, and specific transfer technique to map out the precise location and orientation (horizontal, vertical, or angled) for each grab bar to provide maximum leverage and support where it’s needed most.

Are there drain and floor slope issues to worry about with curbless showers?
Absolutely. Proper water management is the most critical aspect of a successful roll-in shower. The floor must have a carefully calculated slope, typically a minimum of a 1/4-inch drop per foot, to guide all water toward the drain. A linear or “trench” drain installed along one wall is often more effective at catching water than a standard center drain. Improper slope or a poorly installed waterproof membrane can lead to water damage, mold, and a slippery, unsafe floor. This is not a DIY project; hire an experienced contractor who guarantees their waterproofing work.

How do I choose between a fixed shower seat and a fold-down one?
The choice depends on who uses the shower and your space constraints. A wall-mounted, fold-down seat is versatile. It provides a secure place to sit when needed but can be folded up to create space for someone who prefers to stand or for rolling a shower commode chair into the stall. A built-in, fixed bench is incredibly sturdy and can be an aesthetic feature, but it permanently reduces the shower’s open floor space. If multiple people with different needs will use the shower, a fold-down seat is usually the more practical option.

What maintenance is needed to keep a roll-in shower or transfer bench safe and sanitary?
Regular maintenance is crucial. For a roll-in shower, frequently clean the floor and walls to prevent soap scum buildup, which can become slippery. Check the grout and caulking around seams quarterly for any cracks or gaps where water could seep in, and reseal as needed. For a transfer bench, regularly inspect the rubber tips on the legs for wear and tear, as worn tips can slide. Ensure all adjustment pins are securely locked before each use and sanitize the seat surface regularly. For both setups, periodically check that all grab bars are securely fastened to the wall.

How should our family weigh the cost of a remodel versus the goal of long-term independence?
View this decision as an investment in quality of life and future care. A transfer bench is a low-cost, immediate solution that can work well for years. A full roll-in shower remodel is a significant upfront expense. However, if it enables a person to bathe independently and safely for an additional five, ten, or more years in their own home, it can delay or prevent the much higher recurring costs of in-home assistance or a move to an assisted living facility. The financial return is measured in preserved dignity, autonomy, and the savings from avoiding more intensive care later on.

Conclusion clear recommendations and next steps

After weighing the options, the path forward becomes a matter of aligning your specific needs with the right solution. A roll-in shower is the superior choice for wheelchair users who require a barrier-free environment, either because they cannot safely transfer over a tub wall or because they must use a shower commode chair. It represents the gold standard for long-term independence and safety, especially for those with progressive conditions or significant mobility limitations. If your budget and bathroom space allow for this renovation, it is an investment in future autonomy that also simplifies the workflow for caregivers.

On the other hand, a transfer bench is an excellent, often more practical solution when a full remodel is not feasible. It is the go-to choice for individuals who have sufficient upper body strength and balance to safely perform a seated transfer from a wheelchair to the bench. It provides a secure and stable bathing experience within an existing tub or shower stall and is ideal for smaller bathrooms, rental properties, or situations where budget is a primary constraint.

Making the right choice is a process. To move from planning to a safe, accessible reality, here is a checklist of actionable next steps.

Measure and Document.
Start by taking detailed measurements of your bathroom. Note the dimensions of the current tub or shower, doorway width, and the clear floor space available for a wheelchair’s turning radius. Take photos from multiple angles to share with professionals.
Consult an Occupational Therapist (OT).
This is the most critical step. An OT can perform a functional assessment to evaluate your specific transfer abilities, strength, and balance. They will provide a clinical recommendation for the safest setup, including ideal grab bar placement and seat height.
Gather Quotes from Vetted Contractors.
Seek out contractors with specific experience in accessible, universal design, and ADA-compliant construction. Get at least three detailed quotes that break down costs for demolition, plumbing, tiling, and fixtures. Ask for references and photos of their previous accessibility projects.
Check Funding and Insurance.
Investigate potential funding sources. Check with your private insurance, Medicare Advantage plan, or Medicaid waiver program. Also, look into grants from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or local non-profits focused on aging-in-place and disability modifications.
Choose Your Materials Wisely.
Select non-slip flooring for the shower and the main bathroom area. Small, textured tiles with more grout lines often provide better grip. Choose fixtures like handheld showerheads with long hoses and easy-to-operate, lever-style faucet handles.
Verify Drainage and Slope.
If you’re installing a roll-in shower, discuss the floor slope and drain type with your contractor in detail. A properly engineered slope is essential to prevent water from pooling or escaping into the rest of the bathroom.
Install Grab Bars Strategically.
Work with your OT and contractor to determine the precise location and orientation of grab bars. They must be anchored securely into wall studs to support your full body weight during transfers.
Schedule Transfer Training.
Once the new setup is installed, schedule a follow-up session with your OT. They can provide hands-on training to ensure you and any caregivers can use the new equipment safely and efficiently.
Set a Maintenance Plan.
Regularly check that grab bars are secure, the transfer bench is stable, and non-slip surfaces are clean and free of soap scum buildup, which can make them slick.

If a full renovation is months away, you can implement short-term solutions now. A high-quality, padded transfer bench can be installed in an existing tub in under an hour. Adding a handheld showerhead and some strategically placed, suction-cup grab bars (for stabilization, not full weight support) can significantly improve safety in the interim. You can also “pilot” a layout before committing. Use painter’s tape on the floor to mark the footprint of a proposed roll-in shower to see how it impacts movement and accessibility in the room.

This process is about creating a space that supports your well-being. By documenting your needs, seeking expert assessments, and partnering with a knowledgeable contractor, you are taking control of your environment. This isn’t just a construction project; it’s an act of empowerment. Moving forward with a clear plan transforms your bathroom from a source of anxiety into a sanctuary of safety, dignity, and independence.

References

Legal Disclaimers & Brand Notices

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider, such as an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Physical Therapist (PT). Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health professional regarding any medical condition, functional limitation, or before making any home modifications or purchasing assistive devices based on mobility needs. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.

All product names, logos, and brands mentioned in this article are the property of their respective owners. Their use does not imply endorsement or affiliation.

Roll-In Showers vs. Transfer Benches: Designing an Accessible Bathroom

Evaluating user needs and home constraints

Roll-in shower features benefits and tradeoffs

Transfer bench options benefits and tradeoffs