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Livability Initiative (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
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.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Evansville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Missing handrails or grab bars made routine movement at home unsafe for many older adults and in some cases kept them from leaving their houses. Community One addressed this risk through its Neighbors Helping Neighbors Program by installing handrails and grab bars in local homes and purchasing materials for future projects. Volunteer-led installations focused on practical fixes at entryways, stairs and bathrooms. One resident said that without a handrail, leaving her home felt dangerous, but after installation she felt relief and could move safely. The work reduced fall risk, supported aging in place and built a trained volunteer base for ongoing support.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
Simsbury, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many residents needed clear guidance on how to remain safe and independent in their homes as they aged, and local leaders saw a gap in accessible information about home modifications and assistive technology. The town's Aging and Disability Commission subcommittee hosted three events that offered practical advice from experts, hands-on demonstrations through the Smart Home on Wheels and direct access to service providers at an Aging-in-Place Expo that drew more than 250 attendees. Residents received the AARP HomeFit Guide and connected with builders, attorneys, transportation providers and others who could help them plan changes that support aging in place. Strong feedback prompted nearby towns to inquire about replicating the model. The subcommittee now plans to make the Expo a yearly event to sustain these connections and help more residents prepare for long-term independence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Hundreds of elementary school students cross busy Lynhaven Avenue each day on their way to school in Richmond's Bellemeade neighborhood. Walk audits and other community engagement efforts have shown speeding and distracted driving are a common issue on the street. To slow down traffic and improve safety, Sports Backers commissioned local artists to create pavement murals at two intersections. Project organizers hope murals catch the attention of motorists, encouraging them to pay attention to the road and slow down.
Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The Greater Richmond Age Wave Coalition hoped to beautify the Green Park neighborhood and foster relationships between neighbors. To do this, the nonprofit worked to provide community gardening opportunities to residents. To allow older adults to grow produce at home, the nonprofit built 25 garden boxes. Additionally, they created an outdoor courtyard space with raised garden beds at Highland Park Apartments. The Coalition hired local youth to construct and deliver the self-water boxes. The Coalition also held two community gardening events. To help people participate, they offset a portion of public transportation fares for attendees. The Age Wave Coalition's gardening efforts operate under the talent-sharing model, which connects experienced gardeners with people interested learning more about growing fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs.
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