Saint Paul, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Small but critical home safety issues left many older adults at risk of falls and struggling with daily tasks. North East Seniors for Better Living launched an in-home repair and safety inspection program by hiring a dedicated staff member to address urgent needs. Visits focused on fixing broken items, identifying fall hazards and talking through other challenges such as transportation, food access or chore help. In one case, a resident regained safe access to his garage after storm damage was cleared. By pairing repairs with personal check-ins, the program helped older adults remain safer at home and created an ongoing way to connect residents with broader support.

Cincinnati, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Falls are a leading reason older adults lose confidence at home and seek emergency care, often due to hazards that go unnoticed until injury occurs. Colerain Township Department of Fire & EMS expanded its fall prevention program through in-home safety assessments and practical modifications. Firefighter-paramedics installed grab bars in key locations and reviewed fall risks, medications and care needs. One resident said that without the grab bars, they believed they would have returned to the hospital after repeated falls and that the changes helped them regain independence. By focusing on prevention inside the home, the project strengthened long-term support for aging in place with greater safety.

Pinellas Park, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: This project will install grab bars in the homes of residents age 50 or older. These residents have frequently used the local EMS response system and are considered at high risk of falling.