AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Pinole, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: The PAL Program responded to a clear need among older adults who wanted safer homes but lacked guidance on accessibility upgrades and the permitting process. The city hosted a universal design workshop that gave residents practical strategies for improving safety, avoiding contractor scams and planning long-term home modifications. Participants received tools such as a home assessment guide to identify low-cost changes that support mobility and fall prevention. Recordings of the workshops and online resources will remain available, creating a lasting hub for safety and accessibility information. A memorable moment came when a presenter showed how modern grab bars and bathroom fixtures can blend with existing decor, easing concerns about clinical-looking designs. The project built momentum for a multi-workshop series and laid the groundwork for future training, volunteer ambassadors and expanded support that will help older adults remain safely in their homes.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Livingston, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: This project will consist of five home safety events. Topics include common home hazards and prevention strategies, crucial home repairs for safety and accessibility, and cost-effective maintenance solutions.
Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many affordable homes lacked accessibility features, making aging in place difficult for older adults and people with disabilities. To address this, Livability Initiative implemented 57 modifications across five homes. It also trained staff using the AARP HomeFit Guide. Laminated checklists and digital tools were provided to standardize assessments and ensure replicable processes. These changes improved safety and usability while raising awareness of accessible housing. One volunteer said, "Hearing that there are so many low-cost solutions, I'm inspired to make changes to my own home and implement these simple ideas."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Cincinnati, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, often resulting in hospitalizations and loss of independence. Many homes lacked basic safety features, leaving residents at risk. Colerain Township expanded its fall prevention program by assessing homes and installing 30 grab bars, with firefighter-paramedics trained for safe installation. These changes reduced fall risk and eased strain on emergency services, with early data showing fewer 911 calls. Residents called the grab bars "life changing," one writing, "The grab bars have been a blessing... I was able to relax and not be worried about him falling."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cincinnati, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Transportation barriers limit independence for older adults in southwestern Ohio. To improve access, COA launched the Passenger Portal, enabling online trip booking and management. The rollout included tutorial videos, a direct mail campaign to 35,000 residents and five outreach events. Early adoption brought 61 registered users and 187 free rides. One caller shared how the service let her brother join Thanksgiving dinner, calling it a "sense of independence" that strengthened family ties. The portal now offers a lasting tool for autonomy and efficiency in specialized transportation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Ohio State Office
17 S. High Street
Suite 800
Columbus, OH 43215
United States