As of: September 2026 · for Germany and Austria

Accessible, low-barrier, age-friendly: the differences

The terms sound similar but do not mean the same thing. Only „accessible“ and „wheelchair accessible“ are defined by standards with fixed dimensions; all other terms describe a bathroom that removes the most important obstacles.

Here is a comparison of the six terms, the standardised dimensions, and which of these count for funding in Germany and Austria.

Julien El-Bahy, bazuba headquartersProfessionally reviewed by Julien El-Bahy, bazuba headquartersAs of: 24 September 2026 · Dimensions according to DIN 18040-2
bazuba Verständnis Barrierefreiheit

In short

Only 'accessible' and 'wheelchair accessible' are standardised: in Germany according to DIN 18040-2, in Austria according to ÖNORM B 1600. Terms such as low-barrier, age-friendly, senior-friendly and disability-friendly are not protected.

Accessible1.20 × 1.20 mClear floor space in front of shower, toilet and washbasin according to DIN 18040-2Comparison of dimensions
Wheelchair accessible1.50 × 1.50 mClear floor space, plus 90 cm wide doors and a washbasin with wheelchair access underneathAdditional requirements
Low-barrier and age-friendlyNo standardThe most important obstacles removed, especially entry to the bath or showerAll six terms

For funding: The care fund in Germany does not require a bathroom to meet standards, KfW in Germany has its own minimum requirements, and in Austria each federal state decides individually what is eligible for funding. Funding at a glance

Status: 24 September 2026. Professionally reviewed by Julien El-Bahy (bazuba headquarters). Dimensions are a summary; the wording of the standard is decisive.

Six terms compared

In everyday language, these words are often used interchangeably. For planning, quotations, and funding applications, it pays to be precise:

TermStandardisedWhat it means in the bathroom
AccessibleDIN 18040-2 / ÖNORM B 1600yesThe bathroom can be used independently and without particular difficulty: level-access shower, manoeuvring space of 1.20 × 1.20 m, 80 cm wide door.
Wheelchair accessibleAdditional "R" in DIN 18040-2yesThe strictest level: 1.50 × 1.50 m manoeuvring space, 90 cm wide door, accessible washbasin and a free space next to the toilet for transferring.
Accessiblealso "barrier-reduced"NoThe main obstacles have been removed, but some standard values are not met, for example because the room is too small. This is the most common case in existing properties.
Senior-friendlyNoDesigned for older people: safe entry, non-slip surfaces, grab rails, good lighting. Usually low-barrier, rarely fully accessible.
Age-friendlyNoPractically means the same as senior-friendly. In Germany, KfW calls its loan "Age-appropriate Conversion" and sets its own minimum standards for this.
Disability-friendlyNoTailored to a specific impairment, such as visual impairment or wheelchair use. Not a standardised term; the professional terms now are accessible or wheelchair accessible.

Which measures a bathroom really needs as you age can be found in the guide Bathroom suitable for seniors.

Accessible or wheelchair accessible: the standard dimensions

DIN 18040-2 regulates accessible housing in Germany. It distinguishes two levels: accessible use and unrestricted wheelchair use (marked „R“). For bathrooms, this means:

AreaAccessibleWheelchair accessible (R)
Movement areain front of shower, toilet and washbasin1.20 × 1.20 m1.50 × 1.50 m
Doorclear widthat least 80 cm, not opening inwardsat least 90 cm, not opening inwards
Showerlevel access, drop no more than 2 cm, area 1.20 × 1.20 mlevel access, area 1.50 × 1.50 m, folding seat and grab rails
toiletManeuvering space in front, distance to wall at least 20 cmSeat height 46 to 48 cm, 90 cm wide and 70 cm deep free space next to it, folding support rails
WashbasinLegroom underneath, usable while seatedAccessible underneath, top edge no higher than 80 cm

Summary of the most important values; the standard text is binding. Maneuvering spaces may overlap. In Austria, ÖNORM B 1600 regulates accessible construction, with a minimum turning circle of 150 cm in sanitary rooms as a basic requirement.

And in an existing bathroom?

Many bathrooms in existing flats are simply too small for the full standard dimensions. That is no reason to forgo a renovation: A low-barrier bathroom with a level-access shower or bath door, non-slip surfaces and grab rails eliminates the most common accident risks, even if the manoeuvring space is only 0.90 × 1.20 m. These are exactly the minimum standards required by KfW in Germany.

Make your bathroom accessible without major construction work?Bathtub door in 1 day, shower instead of bathtub in 2 to 3 days. Free inspection in Germany and Austria.

Which term counts for funding?

Hardly any funding body requires a bathroom that fully meets the standard. What matters is what the respective body itself stipulates:

SubsidyRequirements
Care fundGermanyNo standard-compliant bathroom. The renovation must facilitate or enable home care, for example, replacing a bathtub with a shower. Grant in Germany up to €4,180 from care level 1. How the application process works
KfW Loan 159GermanyOwn technical minimum requirements for 'age-friendly', less strict than DIN 18040-2, for example, 0.90 × 1.20 m movement area and a maximum shower recess of 2 cm. Grant 455-B is currently suspended. KfW funding in detail
Tax bonusGermanyNo proof of accessibility required: 20% of labour costs, up to €1,200 per year. What can be deducted
Regional fundingAustriaEach federal state decides independently whether it supports 'age-friendly' or 'accessible for disabled people'. In Vienna, from the age of 60, 50% up to €7,500, accessible for disabled people 75% up to €11,250. Vienna funding in detail

As of September 2026, the relevant funding agencies apply. How care levels in Germany and care stages in Austria are classified can be found at Care grades in Germany and Care levels in Austria.

Opposite of accessible and other terms

There is no specific antonym. Common terms are „not accessible“ or „with barriers“; in the bathroom, this usually means: high bath rim, shower tray with a step, narrow door, too little space in front of the toilet.

Other words for accessible are „accessible“ or „unrestricted use“. Instead of „disabled-friendly“, the preferred terms today are „accessible“ or, if referring to wheelchair use, „wheelchair accessible“. „Age-friendly“ and „senior-friendly“ mean the same, while „multi-generational bathroom“ refers to a bathroom suitable for all ages.

Low-barrier renovation without tearing out the bathroom

For most people, the goal is not the standard, but a bathroom where they can stay safe. Often, a simple modification to the bathtub is enough:

  • A bathtub door makes entry lower, the bathtub remains. Usually installed in one day, from around €2,900.
  • With Tub out, shower in a level-access shower replaces the bathtub, in 2 to 3 days, from around €4,500.
  • The Anti-slip finish for bathtubs or shower trays available from around €450, together with coating or bathtub door from around €150.
  • If you want to renovate the entire bathroom, the page barrier-free bathroom shows all solutions.

Prices are guide values and may vary slightly depending on the bathroom and provider. The fixed price is provided after the free inspection. In a rented flat, the renovation requires the landlord’s approval; more information at Bathroom renovation in a rented flat.

Frequently asked questions about accessible and age-friendly bathrooms

Accessible is standardised: In Germany, DIN 18040-2 specifies fixed dimensions, such as 1.20 × 1.20 m manoeuvring space and a level-access shower. Low-barrier is not a standardised term and means that the main obstacles have been removed, even if some standard values are not met.

Wheelchair accessible is the stricter level of DIN 18040-2. Instead of 1.20 × 1.20 m, it requires 1.50 × 1.50 m manoeuvring space, the door must be 90 instead of 80 cm wide, the washbasin must be accessible underneath, and there must be a free space of 90 × 70 cm next to the toilet for transferring.

Not exactly. Disabled-friendly is not a standardised term and refers to a bathroom tailored to a specific impairment. The correct technical terms today are accessible or, if a wheelchair is used, wheelchair accessible.

Age-friendly and senior-friendly mean a bathroom that can be used safely even with reduced strength and mobility: low entry, non-slip surfaces, grab rails, good lighting. The term is not standardised, but KfW in Germany has its own minimum requirements for its loans.

There is no specific antonym. The terms „not accessible“ or „with barriers“ are used. In the bathroom, these typically mean a high bath rim, a shower tray with a step, a narrow door or too little space in front of the toilet.

Usually not. The care fund in Germany pays up to €4,180 if the renovation makes care easier, but does not require compliance with the standard. KfW in Germany has its own, less strict minimum requirements. In Austria, each federal state determines what is eligible for funding.

In Austria, ÖNORM B 1600 regulates accessible construction. In sanitary rooms, a free turning circle of 150 cm is the basic requirement. The specific values required for funding are determined by each federal state.

Fully compliant with the standard is often not possible, as there is not enough space for the manoeuvring areas. Low-barrier is almost always possible: A bathtub door or a level-access shower instead of a bath, non-slip surfaces and grab rails eliminate the most common accident risks, usually in 1 to 3 days and without demolition.

Continue to solutions and funding

Bathroom suitable for seniors

What a bathroom needs as you age: dimensions, costs and funding.

Barrier-free bathroom

Bath door, level-access shower and slip resistance, without major construction work.

Bathroom conversion with the care fund

Up to €4,180 in Germany: step-by-step application, with template.

bazuba — all locations
4.8 / 5
473 real customer reviews
Sources: Google (292) Herold (181)

„On the recommendation of a friend, we got in touch with bazuba Rostock for our bathroom renovation. Since it’s a rental apartment, there were quite a few things to consider with the landlord/owner’s approval, but we were able to implement many individual wishes at our own expense. The initial contact was very pleasant, and first, an assessment was made, and of course, the initial ideas and wishes for the project were recorded. The basic task was to transform the over 20-year-old tiled bathroom with an old bathtub into a modern seamless bathroom with a walk-in rain shower. The company’s showroom had quite a few displays, where we could get our first personal impressions. Then we put together the rest from the catalogs, and we also relied on the advice and recommendations of the boss there, who contributed some great ideas. Then we received an offer with a 3D visualization of the finished bathroom. This allowed us to work very well together with the owner and bazuba on the details and arrive at a final result. The correspondence between bazuba and the owner also went very smoothly, and we were very well informed about delivery times, construction times, and the entire process up to the finished bathroom. We helped set up the construction site by covering the floor and cabinets, and the company’s employees were very friendly and informative about the work steps. We hardly had to ask anything because every morning we were informed about what would happen that day until quitting time. The announced construction time was even undercut by 2 days because everything really fit together, and the trades worked hand in hand. The handover and the finished result, including explanations of all the components, care instructions, and warranties, worked wonderfully and were presented to us very transparently. All in all, we are very satisfied with the result, and for the small space available, it almost feels like being in a good hotel when you step into the shower in the morning 😉 I can definitely recommend bazuba Rostock and am happy to show some before-and-after pictures. It’s not decorated or furnished yet, but it’s about the raw result."

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Marco S.
Rostock · Google

„Complete renovation of bathroom and WC — After weeks of searching online for a company that could take on our project (complete renovation of bathroom and WC), we came across bazuba. Although all customer reviews pointed to an outstanding company, we still felt the need to visit the company location in Guntramsdorf in person first. But from that moment on, it was clear to us that only this company was suitable for our project. The exceptionally warm, competent, polite, friendly, and patient team immediately convinced us. From then on, everything went very quickly. We arranged an inspection appointment with Mr. Weninger. The inspection, consultation, measuring, and addressing special requests all took place in a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The gentleman was very patient and really took a lot of time for us, only leaving once even the smallest detail was clarified. After the very detailed offer and placing the order, the renovation work began punctually on the agreed date. From here on, I have to keep it short, otherwise I would need two more pages. ALL involved, whether subcontractors or the truly outstanding bazuba specialists, carried out their tasks so competently, punctually, cleanly, almost dust-free, quickly, friendly, politely, courteously, professionally, precisely, and expertly that words almost fail me. The continuous support and (after)care of my project are also worth highlighting. After completing the very extensive work, I now have two real gems (bathroom and WC), and I find myself spending much more time there than really necessary. The conclusion of a highly satisfied and enthusiastic customer: the best 10-star company I have ever dealt with. I have recommended and will always recommend bazuba."

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werner.lissa
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Everything just fits perfectly! :o) — We had our roughly 50-year-old bathroom and the equally old toilet renovated by bazuba, and also had the shower in the second bathroom modernized. From the very first (phone) contact, we had a good feeling. Bathroom planner Raffael came to our home and went through the various measures with us, advising us well and being very patient. We were also able to discuss the price well with him, and in the end, he made us an offer that we were very happy with. We had also obtained quotes from competitors, which were significantly more expensive — we’re talking +50% and more. The implementation then went perfectly. First came the dismantling team, then the electricians, the plasterers/floor layers, and finally the assembly team. Overall, the work took almost three weeks, but that was agreed upon in advance and was therefore fine. All workers always arrived as scheduled, were very friendly, explained a lot to us, and did a great job. We were also very grateful that they pointed out some possible/necessary improvements to us. Spontaneous change requests on our part were received and implemented kindly. At the same time, planner Raffael and project manager Anel were always reachable for us and responded quickly to our questions. The result speaks for itself: from old-fashioned, dark rooms with very worn installations, we now have friendly, modern wet rooms that you enjoy entering again. The planning concept was implemented 100% in reality and at what we believe is a really fair price. No hassle with the craftsmen, quite the opposite — it was a pleasure, and we can warmly recommend the entire bazuba team."

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Harry B.
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Everything just fits perfectly! :o) We had bazuba renovate our roughly 50-year-old bathroom and the equally old toilet, and also modernize the shower in the second bathroom. From the very first (phone) contact, we had a good feeling. Bathroom planner Raffael came to our home and went through the various steps with us, giving us good advice and showing a lot of patience. We were also able to talk openly about the price, and in the end he gave us an offer we were very happy with. We had also gotten quotes from competitors, which were noticeably more expensive—we’re talking +50% or more. The implementation then went perfectly. First came the demolition team, then the electricians, the plasterers/floor layers, and finally the installation team. Overall, the work took almost three weeks, but that was agreed on beforehand and so was fine. All the workers always arrived as scheduled, were very friendly, explained a lot to us, and did a great job. We were also very grateful that they pointed out some possible/necessary improvements. Our spontaneous change requests were welcomed and carried out. At the same time, planner Raffael and project manager Anel were always reachable and responded quickly to our questions. The result speaks for itself: from old-fashioned, dark rooms with very worn installations, we now have bright, modern wet rooms that you enjoy entering again. The planning concept was implemented 100% in reality and at what we think is a really fair price. No trouble with the craftsmen at all—in fact, it was a pleasure, and we can warmly recommend the entire bazuba team."

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Hans G.
Guntramsdorf · Google

„Due to water damage in 2023 and subsequent repair work by a specialist company, we were then looking for a company to get our bathroom back in shape. This turned out to be not so easy; local companies either declined due to lack of time or didn’t show up despite appointments. Through internet research, we came across bazuba in Karlsruhe. We quickly had a first appointment with Mr. Glutsch. He arrived on time at our place, listened to our ideas about remodeling the bathroom, and shared his professional knowledge and comments. He took measurements, made notes, and promised to prepare an offer, which arrived in the shortest time. Due to several work appointments with bazuba, he already told us in advance that the work would be delayed and we should expect a date in March/April. But that didn’t matter to us in the end, since thanks to the preliminary work of the renovation company, we could still use our 30-year-old bathroom. When choosing the ceramics and the walk-in shower, we were with Mr. Glutsch at C.Ufer in KA (top advice!). In April, the work started on our partially renovated bathroom. After about 2 weeks, we could fully use our new bathroom; for the shower enclosure, we had to make do with a temporary solution, which was replaced after 5 weeks by a glass partition from Kermi. All in all, we were very impressed by the support and advice from bazuba (special thanks to Mr. Glutsch). A big compliment to the two skilled workers responsible for the work!! Without a doubt, 5 stars for bazuba."

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Peter G.
Karlsruhe · Google

„Good decision! — We chose BAZUBA because of a report on an online portal... and we have no regrets! Our wishes were discussed and planned in the showroom with an incredible amount of patience. Even changes and special requests before the renovation started were implemented quickly and easily. The entire construction team also deserves mention – everyone was without exception polite and friendly. I especially want to mention Mr. Robert, who brightened every one of our site visits with his good mood. In hindsight, we can now list the following reasons why we recommend BAZUBA to everyone: 1.) The price – All other quotes were about 25% higher than BAZUBA’s. 2.) The team – As already mentioned, patience and friendliness are top priorities here. 3.) The planning – None of our wishes were considered impossible. Even special requests were gladly fulfilled. 4.) The working time – A conventional renovation would have taken at least 4 weeks and the whole house would have been dusty. BAZUBA finished on schedule in 2 weeks. 5.) The quality – Nothing wobbles, nothing is scratched. The bathtub looks like new. The walls are flawless. Every joint fits perfectly. 6.) The look – We chose a seamless bathroom. Compared to tiles, our bathroom now feels much friendlier and warmer. 7.) The warranty! All in all, we are satisfied customers and would have our bathroom renovated by BAZUBA again anytime."

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Christopher
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Perfect! Absolutely recommend. — Tub out and shower in! From start to finish, we can only give the highest praise. The consultant, Mr. Raffael Weninger, gave us excellent advice at home. He took our needs into account and came up with a perfect plan for us with his great ideas. The craftsmen also deserve the highest praise. They were extremely careful to avoid dust and dirt, which is not easy with this kind of work. The first two days, two careful installers took on their responsible tasks. After all, all newly laid water pipes and drains have to be completely sealed. The third and fourth days belonged to the quick gentlemen Jànos and Gàbor, who were able to complete this partial renovation on time — without taking a break! It must be said that all "our" four craftsmen are extremely friendly and hardworking. Otherwise, our project would not have been completed perfectly in this relatively short time. On the third day, the company owner visited us, checked on the progress, and asked about our satisfaction so far. That builds trust. Now we enjoy our new shower pleasure every day! We gladly recommend this company with its great employees. Warm regards! Christian & Sylvia Karner"

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Christian K.
Guntramsdorf · Herold

Make your bathroom accessible?

We will inspect your bathroom free of charge, advise you on what is possible, and provide a fixed price after the visit. Prefer to call? Free from Germany at 0800 90 44 2000, from Austria on 0800 66 55 36.

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