Articles
Safe, Stylish, and Smart Living for 55+ Communities
For older adults, the design details you can’t see—the finish of the tile, the texture underfoot, the seamless shower threshold—matter just as much as the ones you can.
Every day in the U.S., 10,000 people turn 65, and the number of older adults will more than double over the next several decades to top 88 million people and represent over 20 percent of the population by 2050. – AARP International
This single stat drives billions in construction and design decisions across the country each year. And for developers of 55+ communities, it’s more than a trend—it’s a call to rethink what home looks like when safety, wellness, and beauty all need to coexist.
A beautiful home with a bathroom that turns into a hazard zone every time it gets wet is a nonstarter. Slippery floors don’t just pose a risk; they send a message that the space wasn’t thoughtfully designed.
At Hamilton Parker, we work closely with architects, designers, and developers to make sure that materials don’t just meet code—they meet the expectations of buyers who want to live well longer. With decades of experience in product selection and a constantly evolving tile catalog, we’re helping shape communities that are both functional and desirable.
Why Anti-Slip Tile Isn’t Optional
Slips and falls remain one of the leading causes of injury for adults over 55, particularly in the bathroom. According to the CDC, over 3 million older adults are treated in emergency rooms every year due to fall injuries, and more than 80% of these occur in the bathroom.
Choosing the right flooring materials is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the design phase of any 55+ community project.
What to Look for in Slip-Resistant Tile
Every floor tile should have a COF rating—this measures the slip resistance of the tile. For residential bathrooms, look for a minimum wet COF of 0.42, as recommended by the ANSI standard A137.1.
Matte Finishes Over Polished Surfaces
Glossy tiles may look sleek, but they’re slippery when wet. Matte finishes offer texture and grip while maintaining modern aesthetics. Many matte-finished porcelain tiles now mimic the look of wood, stone, and even concrete for elevated design.
Small Format or Mosaic for Wet Areas
Shower floors should always use tile smaller than 3×3 inches. This allows for more grout lines, meaning more traction. Mosaic tiles not only provide safety but also offer design flexibility with a variety of textures and colors. Designing for older adults doesn’t mean compromising on style. Textured finishes that replicate natural stone and wood. Large-format planks that minimize grout and maximize visual space. Coordinating trims and mosaics for seamless, custom-look installations. We also keep popular products in stock, reducing lead times and helping projects stay on schedule.
Product spotlight:
Landmark Charme Evo pairs the timeless look of marble with the durability of porcelain. Its soft matte finish provides slip resistance, making it an excellent choice for 55+ communities where safety is a priority. Coordinating mosaics ensures seamless transitions from living areas to showers.
Atlas Concorde Memory Oak combines the warmth of natural wood with the strength of porcelain. Its textured matte surface offers excellent slip resistance, ideal for 55+ communities focused on safe, comfortable living. Available in a range of rich, authentic tones, Memory Oak brings inviting character to bathrooms, kitchens, and main living spaces.
Jasba Loop Anti-Slip Penny Mosaic is purpose-built for wet areas where safety matters most. Its small-format, textured surface delivers reliable slip resistance, making it perfect for shower floors in 55+ communities. Available in modern, versatile colors, this mosaic pairs easily with larger tiles to create a cohesive, secure, and stylish space.
Pro tip: Pair matte, wood-look planks with a mosaic shower floor in a coordinating tone. This creates a warm, cohesive bathroom design that feels high-end and safe.
Where Hamilton Parker Can Help
As a material partner, we offer more than just a product. Our team collaborates early in the design process to:
- Recommend ADA-compliant materials
- Source anti-slip tile with the right COF ratings
- Suggest coordinating floor and wall packages
- Provide showroom support for specifiers and homebuyers
FAQ About 55+ Communities and Tile Selection
What defines a 55+ community?
These are residential developments designed for adults aged 55 and older, often with amenities and features that support active aging, accessibility, and community living.
What types of flooring are best for bathrooms in 55+ communities?
Porcelain tile with a matte or textured finish is ideal. Look for smaller formats or mosaics in wet areas to maximize grip and safety.
What is the best tile for a shower floor in aging-in-place designs?
A mosaic tile (usually 2″x2″ or smaller) with a high wet COF rating and matte finish. Coordinated mosaics are often available for larger floor tiles to keep the look consistent.
Does Hamilton Parker offer anti-slip tile options in stock?
Yes. We stock a wide selection of anti-slip porcelain tiles, many with coordinating wall and mosaic options, ready for pickup or delivery.
Can I get help choosing the right product for my project?
Absolutely. Our team of design consultants can recommend options tailored to your space, aesthetic, and safety needs. Please schedule a consultation or visit one of our showrooms to get started.
Safe Doesn’t Mean Boring
There’s no reason safety features should stand in the way of great design. Designing with care shows your buyers that you’re thinking about their future. Whether it’s preventing slips in the shower or ensuring a cohesive look across living spaces, thoughtful tile selection speaks volumes.
