Accessibility is essential for the bathroom to be usable for most people. There should be at least one full bath on the first level of a home that is accessible to people who are unable to climb stairs. The bathroom should be large enough to accommodate two people (5 feet x 5 feet), and it should be large enough to maneuver a wheelchair or a walker.

The door to the bathroom should open outward, in case someone falls against it inside and a helper must get in. Also, a door that opens inward interferes with needed maneuvering space for a person using a wheelchair. The doorway should be wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, a walker or other assistive device. A lever handle door knob will be easier than the traditional knob for most people to use.

Eliminate the risk of tripping by making certain all door thresholds are flush. If there is a pocket or sliding door, the lower track should be recessed into the floor.