Bathing allows people to maintain acceptable health, and social standards of cleanliness. Most young, able bodied adults find bathing to be routine. But bathing can become more hazardous and time consuming as they get older or if they develop mobility problems. 

One of the problems is adjusting faucets so as to not get scalded. Temperature limiting devices can be used or use a larger hot water tank with a lower temperature. 

Loss of reach ability can be helped by installing stick on plastic soap dishes and shelfs at lower heights.

Another serious concern is drowning. Young children left unattended and seniors that fall are most susceptible to drowning. But it can happen to anyone of any age, especially for those prone to seizures or black outs.

Falls in the bathroom account for most injuries due to the bathroom often being a confined space with hard slippery surfaces. Within the bathroom, entering and exiting the bathtub is most problematic. The balancing while stepping over the edge, the hard surfaces and the sharp protruding fixtures can be a dangerous combination. There are special step in tubs designed for the most mobility challenged, but they are used mostly in higher care senior's housing and medical facilities. For home use, sturdy grab bars can be installed. Some clamp on easily to metal tubs. Others fasten to studs in the walls. It is also prudent to use a cloth mat with a slip resistant rubber backing outside the tub and another mat inside the tub. If children or seniors have trouble remembering to use a mat, install a permanent style mat like hospitals and hotels sometimes use. Another useful device that can be of good assistance to seniors is a bath seat which can be acquired at many of the larger drug stores. There are also assistive devices to help keep small children upright while bathing.