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When mobility starts to change, one of the biggest questions people face is how best to stay safe, comfortable, and independent at home.
For many, the first thought is moving into a care home – but before you take that step, it’s worth understanding the true cost difference between adapting your home and moving out of it.
At Age Care Bathrooms, we help thousands of older adults remain independent by transforming their bathrooms into safe, accessible spaces – often at a fraction of the cost of long-term care.
The cost of a new accessible bathroom
Every bathroom we design is tailored to the individual, but here’s a guide to typical prices for a full professional installation:
- Walk-In Bath installation: starting from £7,500
- Walk-In Shower installation: starting from £8,500
- Full Wet Room installation: starting from £13,500
These prices include a full design consultation, professional installation by DBS-checked specialists, and a 12-month aftercare package for complete peace of mind.
It’s a one-time investment that instantly improves safety, comfort, and quality of life – and helps you stay in the home you love for many more years.
How that compares to care home costs
According to recent research from Age UK and Which?, the average cost of a residential care home in the UK is around £1,100 per week – and this figure rises to £1,400–£1,800 per week if nursing care is required.
That means the typical cost of living in a care home is:
| Care Type | Average Weekly Cost | Annual Cost (Approx.) |
| Standard Residential Care | £1,100 | £57,200 |
| Nursing Care Home | £1,500 | £78,000 |
In other words, the cost of a single year in a care home could easily pay for four to six brand-new accessible bathrooms – or allow you to adapt your home, enjoy full independence, and still have money left over.
Independence that pays for itself
Installing an accessible bathroom isn’t just about safety – it’s about preserving independence, dignity, and choice.
With a walk-in shower or bath, you can:
- Continue living safely in your own home.
- Avoid the disruption and emotional cost of moving.
- Retain control over your environment and routine.
- Future-proof your home for years to come.
When you compare this to the ongoing monthly fees of a care home – which never stop – the long-term financial benefit of adapting your home becomes even clearer.
Real stories, real savings
Many of our customers come to us after exploring care home options and realising how much more affordable (and dignified) it is to stay at home with the right adaptations.
“After my fall, I thought I’d have to move into assisted living. Age Care Bathrooms transformed my old bath into a beautiful walk-in shower, and now I can bathe safely again — no carers needed.”
– Mrs. R, Staffordshire
It’s life-changing peace of mind – without the care home price tag.
Flexible ways to pay
We understand that affordability is important, which is why we offer flexible payment options including Buy Now, Pay Later finance and help checking if you qualify for 0% VAT relief due to disability or long-term illness.
That means you can spread the cost of your installation or even save up to 20% VAT if you’re eligible – making independence even more achievable.
A simple comparison
| Option | Typical Cost | Duration | Independence | Long-Term Value |
| Walk-In Bath | From £7,500 | One-off | Full | Lasts 10+ years |
| Walk-In Shower | From £8,500 | One-off | Full | Lasts 10+ years |
| Wet Room | From £13,500 | One-off | Full | Adds property value |
| Care Home | £1,100–£1,800/week | Ongoing | Limited | Costs repeat monthly |
Why most people choose to adapt, not relocate
Most people don’t want to leave their home – they just want to feel safe in it.
By choosing an accessible bathroom, you’re not just saving money – you’re protecting your independence and improving your quality of life for years to come.
At Age Care Bathrooms, our team of friendly specialists are here to make that process easy. From free design consultations to professional installation and aftercare, we’ll handle everything.
The takeaway
A care home may cost £57,000+ per year.
A walk-in bathroom may cost just £7,500–£13,500 – and could give you another decade or more in your own home.
For most people, it’s not just the more affordable choice – it’s the one that truly feels like home.
Ready to compare your options?
Book your free home design consultation today and see how we can make your bathroom safe, accessible and future-proof – so you can stay right where you belong.
Book Your Free Home Visit →
🚿 Independence Starts at Home
The right bathroom design can mean fewer barriers, more comfort, and greater control over your day. Age Care Bathrooms works with you to make that possible.
📞 Call 0800 999 8994
or
💬 Contact us today
to create a bathroom that works for you—not against you.