AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
UUH Outreach Program (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
Older adults in Philadelphia faced home safety hazards that threatened independence and increased fall risk. To address this, the program hosted three workshops led by health professionals, teaching practical strategies for aging in place. Participants received tailored products like shower chairs and collapsible tubs, installed to improve safety. Eighteen older adults now live more confidently at home, and many reported immediate habit changes. One client said that these improvements made her routine safer and more comfortable, and the project fostered increased safety and independence.
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
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.
Portland, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults in Portland faced fall risks and lacked access to affordable home safety solutions, especially those with language barriers. ReFIT responded by hosting six outreach events, sharing multilingual HomeFit Guides and safety items, and installing 22 grab bars plus other modifications like ramps and railings. These changes help residents age in place with confidence and dignity. "I feel so much safer now... I just didn't know who to ask about getting this done," said one client, reflecting the project's lasting impact on independence and peace of mind.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wayland, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many older adults wanted to age in place safely but lacked guidance on home modifications to prevent falls. The Council hosted three workshops on aging in place and home safety, recorded sessions for cable TV and distributed 100 motion-sensing night light sets. It also installed grab bars in five homes through a pilot program. These efforts increased awareness, reduced fall risks and gave older adults confidence to remain in their homes, prompting plans for future workshops and ongoing educational programming.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Philadelphia, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: Older adults in Philadelphia needed a welcoming space to connect and access technology. The organization converted unused office space into the Golden Age Cafe, a vibrant lounge offering coffee, baked goods and free Wi-Fi. Volunteers led the redesign and now manage the cafe, which hosts programs and combats isolation. "The cafe has a warm inviting atmosphere... a place to meet and relax," said a volunteer. The permanent space enhances Vernon Park and creates new revenue streams for sustainability.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Philadelphia, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience
Description: This project allowed Mt. Airy Community Development Corporation to intentionally recruit local older adults to take part in its PhillyiHub entrepreneurship program. Project organizers recruited a cohort of older adult entrepreneurs and held a series of virtual workshops to help them develop their businesses. Workshop topics include financing, business operations, marketing and branding. The six-week program provides one-on-one assistance with business growth planning and gives business owners a chance to network with each other. Project organizers say the older adults were engaged and open participants.
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 Pennsylvania State Office
30 North 3rd Street
Suite 920
Harrisburg, PA 17101
United States