AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Pinellas Park Fire Department (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
Older residents in Pinellas Park faced high fall risks at home, often relying on emergency services after accidents. To improve safety, the fire department installed grab bars in homes of residents age 50-plus identified as high-risk. The project strengthened community ties and raised awareness about home safety, helping older adults feel more secure and confident. Participants expressed gratitude, saying the changes made them feel safer at home.
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
Washburn, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults in Washburn faced safety risks at home due to limited knowledge and resources for modifications. The library hosted an educational event that exceeded expectations, drawing 35 participants age 50-plus. Attendees received HomeFit bags with items like grab bars and motion-sensor lights and had access to an occupational therapist for personalized guidance. Participants reported feeling safer and more confident about aging in place, with one noting that the items provided were things much needed and that they "added an extra level of safety to my home!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Fort Davis, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Mobile Comunidad worked to address safety risks faced by older adults in a rural county with high poverty and limited support for aging in place. Volunteers delivered home safety kits that included lighting, anti-slip tools and other items that made daily tasks easier. Meeting residents in person allowed volunteers to explain how each item could help. Recipients mentioned how useful the kits were and expressed sincere gratitude. The project showed that small improvements can prompt safer living conditions, increased awareness among local leaders and stronger interest in expanding home safety efforts across the county.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
St. Petersburg, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The Dream Center works with low-income families throughout Pinellas County, focusing on improving safety and livability for older adults in their homes. This project made home repairs and accessibility modifications to 25 houses, including widening doors and installing grab bars, chair lifts, wheelchair ramps, handrails and toilet seat lifts. Project organizers say these repairs shielded families from facing potentially expensive fines for code violations. The Dream Center also provided food assistance and hygiene items to older adults. Today the Center continues to provide home modification assistance through its Adopt A Block program.
Pinellas County, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The Florida Dream Center helps older adults in Pinellas County age in place, relying on federal grants and other funding sources to assist with home repairs and modifications. However, this funding is typically limited, meaning the nonprofit can only improve homes belonging to residents over the age of 62. To serve a larger subset of older adults, the Florida Dream Center created a program for residents between the ages of 50 to 61. Modifications include installing grab bars and handrails, replacing flooring, fixing holes in exterior walls, painting, rewiring exterior lights and mitigating rodents and other pests. By tapping a wide volunteer network to help make repairs, the Center has since expanded the services it offers to older homeowners.
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 Florida State Office
360 N. Central Avenue
Suite 1750
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
United States
Phone: 866-595-7678
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]