AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Town of Bowdoinham (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ Lifelong housing and accessibility
└ Lifelong housing and accessibility
Facing a shortage of accessible housing, the town created a plain-language guide to promote Universal Design-an approach that makes homes safer and easier for all ages. The 12-page brochure explains practical ideas for remodeling and new construction, from lever-style door handles to first-floor accessible baths. Older residents shared stories and feedback during development, ensuring relevance. Distributed at community events and local businesses, the guide is shaping housing conversations and influencing future plans. One resident noted it offers "simple and often inexpensive ways" to make homes welcoming for everyone.
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
North Conway, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: The Gibson Center and its partners hosted a Safe and Smart Home Expo to help older adults explore practical ways to age in place. The event featured the "Smart Home on Wheels" as well as demonstrations of adaptive devices, safety checklists and universal design concepts. Hundreds of visitors learned about affordable technology, with one exhibitor noting, "Visitors were excited to hear how affordable and easy to use smart plugs are." The expo sparked ongoing conversations about livable housing and inspired plans for future demonstrations.
Washington, DC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Iona Senior Services needed to transform its Aging Solo series from in-person classes to Zoom instruction. The popular series provides information, strategies and a supportive community to older adults who don't have a family support network. Iona offered the virtual classes for six weeks and -- to reach a larger audience -- recorded them for future sharing. The new online format allowed Iona to reach individuals who would not have been able to participate in person, and course leaders modified the curriculum to recognize the pandemic's impact on older adults. To expand the initiative's reach, project organizers also created and distributed an electronic discussion guide for use by faith communities, aging-in-place villages and other organizations.
Omaha, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Older adults in Omaha need housing that supports independence and accessibility. The Sustainable Small House project demonstrates how ADA-compliant, energy-efficient homes can meet these needs. The house was relocated to the UNO campus and prepared for features like a swing-away sink, voice-controlled shower and wheelchair-level washer/dryer. Once complete, it will host public tours to showcase smart, accessible design. "The SSH can provide a significant solution to the residential sector," said project leaders.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Bowdoinham, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The Town of Bowdoinham provided elevated planters to six residents who, because of disabilities, could not maintain traditional, in-the-ground gardens. Members of the local Masons Lodge constructed the raised beds and delivered soil to each recipient. To showcase the planters, the Town hosted a community meal featuring local produce, which included a presentation about the benefits of raised beds. In addition, the Town founded a garden club, which meets monthly.
Richmond, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Richmond's Main Street offered no seating, making uphill walks difficult for older adults and limiting social interaction. After preparing the site, Lifelong Richmond installed seven benches with volunteer support, creating safe resting spots near shops and the library. The benches quickly became gathering places for errands and events, reducing isolation and encouraging outdoor activity. Residents praised the change during the town's holiday celebration, and officials plan to add more benches to expand access.
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 Maine State Office
53 Baxter Boulevard
Suite 202
Portland, ME 04101
United States