Hello. Cork is also a very good insulator so if you are trying to use the thermal mass in your floor for passive heating/cooling then it is probably not the best choice. A direct fix bamboo (not floating) will work and there is a way to fix higher density timbers to a slab using battens and screed that will also maintain a thermal connection; this is not the cheapest way to build up a floor but it works well and gives you the benefit of the concrete slab that will you will invest heavily in (good in the long term)

unless you have a very big bathroom the actual laying of the tiles could be the smallest cost of the whole renovation (what is the size of the space?)...there's also the removal of the old finish (and any old asbestos) and preparation of the new surfaces and waterproofing and any new fixtures and tile glue and trims and grout...ask the tiler what is included for the price

I haven't tried the new cork products, but love its eco credentials as its completely sustainable. I rented a house with a cork floor and it was really lovely! I loved how it was a little springy underfoot which was great on the legs and back, when you dropped stuff it didn't break as easily (I have horrible modern terracotta tiles and now have no glass cups left!) it had a lovely warmth about it and was really easy to clean. It wasn't cold in the winter mornings either and would warm up in the afternoon sun. I have fond memories of my eldest learning to walk on the cork. He wouldn't even cry when he fell as it was so springy. And it was NOT a new cork floor. I think cork is underrated and deserves a comeback!

Definitely matte tiles. And as said above, all tiles have a slip rating. it doesn't matter how old or young you are and what medical surgery you are having, the slip rating should be taken into consideration. Plus ease of access to shower, with out steps. And a big enough shower recess for chair. i have three friends that have recently had full knee replacements, one was a double knee replacement in the one surgery. They are all in their fifties with existing bathrooms. So it doesn't matter what age you are, the answer is to have a correct bathroom set up. So I hope you achieve that before surgery.