News

A lifelong Cincinnati resident and 1964 graduate of Central High School, Connie, 80, has lived in her Northside home since 1998.

It’s an old home – 165 years old – acquired in a divorce. She enjoys sitting on her front porch, talking with neighbors as they walk by.

But, following knee replacement surgery in January 2026, some of the old home’s charming features became troublesome for Connie, namely the steep staircase and master bathroom.

Living on a fixed income, Connie thought about her options and decided she didn’t want to go into debt to make changes or renovate. She could pull herself up the stairs, one step at a time and use a stool to get into and out of the bathtub, if necessary.

“You’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do,” she explained.

Then a friend suggested she contact Council on Aging (COA) to see what help might be available. When Connie called, she spoke with staff in COA’s STEPS to Stability program.

STEPS to Stability was created by Council on Aging to help meet short-term or one-time needs for older adults who want to live independently at home for as long as possible.

At the time of Connie’s call, COA had funding, allocated by Hamilton County Commissioners, to make home repairs and safety modifications for Hamilton County older adults who didn’t meet eligibility criteria for other available programs.

Through STEPS to Stability, Connie received a walk-in shower, grab bars and a raised toilet seat for her bathroom, increasing her confidence, independence and safety. She also qualified to have handrails installed on each side of her steep staircase.

Connie was also having difficulty with the transportation service through her insurance company. She doesn’t drive and relies on her insurance provider to get rides to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store and for other errands. But, the service requires several days advance notice to schedule a ride – which isn’t ideal in urgent situations.

COA staff told Connie about home52 Transportation, which provides same-day and advanced scheduled transportation for riders who need specialized transportation services – such as older adults and individuals with disabilities.  

Connie qualified for grant-funded rides that can help her get where she needs to go, when she wants to go, at no cost.

Earlier this summer, Connie and Council on Aging staff were interviewed for a WCET story about senior housing in Greater Cincinnati. The story will air in early October as part of Season 3 of the station’s Brick by Brick program.