Author Information
Yi-Jie Zhao, National Taipei University of Technology, TaiwanTung-Ming Lee, National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan
Abstract
As Taiwan officially transitioned into a super-aged society by the end of 2025—with the population aged 65 and above exceeding 20%—ensuring home environmental safety has become a core issue for implementing “aging in place.” This study aims to investigate the functional roles and spatial constraints of support systems used by older adults in bathroom environments, where accidental falls are most prevalent. Through situational observations, expert consultations, and semi-structured interviews with older adults, the research identified significant “support gaps” in existing layouts, revealing that in the absence of professional grab bars, older adults frequently rely on washbasins and door frames for compensatory support during sit-to-stand and transfer movements. These improvised methods, dictated by environmental deficiencies, pose a high risk of injury. To mitigate these risks, the study established three core design dimensions: structural safety, behavior-oriented configuration, and de-institutionalized aesthetics. The findings emphasize that bathroom safety must evolve from the mere addition of individual grab bars toward a “systemic functional integration” of spatial equipment. Specifically, by seamlessly integrating grab bar functions into furniture elements, the design effectively eliminates the clinical feel of medical devices, thereby increasing the psychological acceptance and willingness of older adults to utilize these supports. By implementing “continuous support trajectories” and “invisible assistive concepts,” the proposed guidelines provide an empirical framework for designing safer, more dignified, and inclusive living environments. Ultimately, this research seeks to enhance independence and confidence, supporting older adults in living safely and with dignity within their familiar home environments.
Paper Information
Conference: AGen2026Stream: Built Environment
This paper is part of the AGen2026 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Zhao Y., & Lee T. (2026) Designing for Bathroom Safety: Understanding Older Adults’ Support Behaviors and Grab Bar Needs ISSN: 2432-4183 The Asian Conference on Aging & Gerontology 2026: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 125-137) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2432-4183.2026.10
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2432-4183.2026.10
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