Green Valley, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Many older adults lacked resources to make their homes safer for aging in place, increasing fall risks and limiting independence. Valley Assistance Services responded with HomeFit education and safety demonstrations at community events, expanded outreach through classes at libraries and its office. They also distributed easy-to-read guides and home safety kits. Participants requested extra kits for neighbors, amplifying impact. The effort raised awareness and created lasting access to tools that help prevent falls. "It was very easy to read and full of great information," said one participant.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

West Reading, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Reading Hospital addressed a common gap in care for older adults returning home after a fall or injury, when safety risks are often identified too late during discharge. The project strengthened referral pathways that connected high-risk patients to coordinated in-home support, including visits from an occupational therapist, a registered nurse and a handyman. Hospital staff across multiple departments were trained to identify eligible patients earlier and make timely referrals. For participants who enrolled, the visits helped address home hazards and improve confidence. The effort improved continuity from hospital to home and embedded fall prevention support into discharge planning.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Jacksonville, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: The Arc Jacksonville focused on reducing fall risk and safety hazards that can quickly undermine independence for older adults with intellectual and developmental differences. As vision changes and mobility challenges made familiar homes feel unpredictable, caregivers and staff needed practical ways to adapt living spaces. The project delivered five hands-on trainings for direct support professionals, family caregivers, managers and residents, combining walk-through home assessments with guidance from the HomeFit guide and a low-vision session led by an occupational therapist. Equipment was added to improve lighting, visibility and stability in several homes. One resident with significant vision loss regained confidence moving through his home and returned to daily routines. Staff now carry repeatable assessment skills into ongoing training, strengthening the long-term capacity of community homes to support older adults safely and with dignity.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.