Wayland, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: This project will support aging in place through home safety trainings for older adults. The Council will also install grab bars in several homes and attendees will receive motion-sensing night lights.

Ayer, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space improvements to increase highspeed internet

Description: Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts addressed persistent barriers that made it hard for older adults to access medical care, including long travel distances, limited public transit and the loss of nearby hospital services. For many residents, telehealth appointments were offered but felt out of reach without reliable technology, private space and hands-on support. The project equipped libraries and other community centers to serve as telehealth access hubs. It provided equipment, private rooms and staff trained to guide older adults through appointments and scheduling. Training modules were designed with older adults in mind to reduce anxiety and build confidence using digital tools. Five sites are now operating as telehealth hubs, creating new, trusted access points for care. Early success has prompted plans to expand to additional locations and strengthened advocacy for broader telehealth policy changes that could improve long-term access to care.