More of Scotland's most vulnerable people are to be given support to live independently in their own homes and achieve the best possible quality of life.
More people affected by disability, ill health, traumatic injury or immobility will now benefit from simplified access to equipment and adaptations to assist them in everyday activities.
New guidance being developed will streamline equipment and adaptations services across Scotland and help ensure a joined up approach between health, education, housing and social care services.
Public Health Minister, Shona Robison, launched a consultation on what should be included in the new guidance. It asks for views on a range of proposals, including:
Ms Robison said:
"We know that even making a small adaptation to someone's home - such as installing a grab-rail or a removable ramp - can make a big difference to their quality of life, including being able to live in their own home.
"That is why services must be designed and delivered around the needs of the people who use them, their carers and communities, so that as their needs change, so does the service provision.
"This guidance will ensure that the people who benefit from equipment and adaptations, and their carers, are placed at the centre of provision, increasing people's capacity to take control of their own lives.
"This consultation is an important part of the process in making sure that this guidance will do just that."