A home that supports the way you live

There is no single way to grow older—and no single picture of what ageing at home should look like. Each person has their own routines, interests and priorities.

International Day of Older Persons on 1 October is an opportunity to look beyond assumptions about ageing and recognise each person’s individual experiences, priorities and contribution. It also reminds us that older people should be active participants in decisions about where and how they live. This year’s theme, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives”, also invites us to consider how our homes can continue to support longer lives with choice and independence.

“Old enough to decide what care and support I want.”

Part of the UN Human Rights #OldEnoughTo campaign for International Day of Older Persons 2026. Learn more about the campaign.

Small accessibility changes are not about defining someone by their age or assuming they need help. They are about choice: noticing what could feel easier or more comfortable, then deciding what works for you.

This article explores how to assess your home around the life you want to lead. It covers easier movement through everyday spaces, added comfort in the bathroom and toilet, and ways to address small steps or changes in level—so your home can continue supporting you, and the way you want to live.

Start with what matters to you

Before considering changes around your home, think about how you use each space. Accessibility is personal, so the most useful changes are those that respond to your needs.

As you move through a typical day, ask yourself:

• Are there activities that feel less comfortable or convenient than they used to?
• Is there anywhere you feel less steady or confident?
• Do you avoid a particular step, room or task?
• Would a small change make something you enjoy easier to continue?
• Are there everyday items that could be placed within easier reach?

You may also find it helpful to walk through your home with a loved one or occupational therapist. A fresh perspective can help identify practical options, but the decisions should remain centred on what matters to you.

Making movement around the home easier

Many useful accessibility changes can be found along the routes between rooms, not only within the rooms themselves.

Healthdirect, the Victorian Government’s Better Health Channel and SA Health recommend practical measures such as:

• Improving lighting, particularly around stairs and frequently used routes
• Keeping walkways clear of clutter and electrical cords
• Securing or removing loose rugs
• Addressing slippery or uneven surfaces
• Making steps and changes in level easier to see
• Keeping outdoor paths clear, even and well lit

Begin with the areas you move through most often. Once you’ve considered how these routes could work better for you, look more closely at the parts of daily life where additional support could help you maintain your independence. The following sections explore practical Q-assist options for bathing, toileting and navigating steps or changes in level.

	Supporting confidence and comfort in the bath and shower Bathing can feel enjoyable—not like something to get through. Consider whether standing throughout a shower, stepping over a hob or bath edge, or lowering yourself into the bath is making the experience harder than it needs to be. Practical options may include placing toiletries within easy reach, improving slip resistance and adding suitable seated support. A shower chair can provide a comfortable place to sit, while a transfer chair or bath board may reduce the need to balance while stepping over an edge. The right option depends on your bathroom layout, available space and how you want to bathe. Q-assist’s guides to choosing a shower chair and selecting an aid for a shower over a bath explain the different choices and features to consider. An occupational therapist can also help identify an option suited to your needs and bathroom. Explore bathroom aids
Making toileting more comfortable and accessible Toileting is a private part of everyday life, so being able to manage it comfortably and independently matters. Common difficulties can include lowering yourself onto the toilet, standing back up, maintaining balance or reaching the bathroom—particularly overnight. Limited space around the toilet can also make movement or assistance more difficult. Begin by identifying which part of the routine is causing difficulty. A different seat height may reduce the effort required to sit and stand, while a supportive frame around the toilet may help with stability. Many changes can be made without renovating or permanently altering the bathroom. Q-assist’s guide to choosing the right toilet aid explains the available options and the practical factors to consider. Explore toilet aids
	Making entrances, exits and steps easier to navigate A step or raised threshold should not decide whether you can enjoy the garden, visit someone you care about or confidently head out for the day. If you use a wheelchair, mobility scooter or walking frame, a suitable ramp can provide a safe, comfortable way to move between home and the places that matter to you. A portable ramp can offer added flexibility, travelling with you for visits, holidays and other activities. It may also be a practical option if you rent your home, need temporary access or would prefer not to make a permanent change. Start with where you want to go and what easier access would allow you to keep doing. As every location is different, Q-assist’s guide to choosing the right wheelchair ramp explains the available options and how to identify one suited to your access point and mobility aid. Explore mobility ramps

Small changes that support life your way

Your home does not need to change all at once. What matters is noticing where something is getting in the way and choosing adjustments that support the way you want to live.

Making changes proactively allows you to consider the options, seek advice where needed and choose what works best for you.

International Day of Older Persons is a timely reminder that growing older should not mean giving up choice or independence. With thoughtful changes, your home can continue to support the routines, relationships and activities that make it yours.