Abstract: The present invention provides a proximity-triggered handrail cueing system with automatic attention capture for providing visual and auditory cues that automatically and involuntarily (subconsciously) attract attention to the handrail. The system includes a hand railing (i.e. handrail or grab bar) constructed from translucent or transparent plastic tubing, a series of lights mounted inside the railing, along the longitudinal axis, one or more auditory speakers built into the railing or railing brackets, and a proximity detector (e.g. photoelectric sensor) and controller that activates the lights and speakers whenever a person approaches the railing. The speakers can be used to issue a verbal prompt to hold the handrail.