AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
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.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
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.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Unsafe homes left many older adults at risk of falls and fire hazards. The group upgraded 20 homes with grab bars, stair railings, smoke detectors and motion-sensor lighting, while also adding adaptive showerheads and replacing unsafe outlets. These changes improved safety and independence for residents. One recipient said that the grab bars installed after his stroke made him feel secure and mobile again. Another home received railings after a fall, preventing future accidents and ensuring peace of mind for the family.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Tucson, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona addressed gaps in home safety knowledge for older adults who want to age in place but lack clear guidance. Through its ELDER Alliance Livable Communities Action Team, the group hosted a community education event focused on the HomeFit Guide, linking residents to usable information about safer home features and local resources. Participants received adaptive items that support daily safety, including lighting, and learned how small changes can reduce risks at home. The work built on an existing age-friendly housing vision and strengthened collaboration with local leaders and partners. New presentation materials are now ready for repeat use in community spaces, supporting continued education and informing housing discussions.
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.
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 Virginia State Office
901 E Byrd Street
Suite 1005
Richmond, VA 23219
United States