100+ lives transformed through our Aging in Place program!
Launched in 2017, our Aging in Place program was designed to affordably improve the safety, accessibility, and other minor repairs in the homes of income-qualified adults aged 62 or better. Every Aging in Place project improves a home and empowers individuals to maintain their independence with dignity.
Please contact our Homeowner Services Coordinator with any questions at 320-762-4255.
What is Aging in Place?
Aging in Place is a program that partners with people age 62 or older to make improvements to the safety, accessibility, or energy efficiency of the home.
Aging in Place is a movement to not only enable people to age safely in their homes but also to create an environment where older adults can continue to learn and contribute, develop relationships with people of all ages, maintain a healthy lifestyle, live independently and receive healthcare and support services that are community-based. At the end of the day, a livable community for older adults is a livable community for everyone.
What kind of work will be done?
A free assessment of the home will be completed by a Certified Aging in Place Specialist to recommend improvements to the home. An Occupational Therapist will also provide a free functional assessment for each homeowner to understand how each person completes daily living activities, evaluate potential risks, and recommend modifications to help them remain at home. Together, the homeowners and Habitat staff will decide on work to be completed, keeping in mind budget considerations.
The program focuses on making improvements to the safety, accessibility, or other minor repairs in homes. Whether installing grab bars, railings, shower chairs, stair gates, ramps, lever door handles, raised toilets or moving laundry to the main floor, converting existing tubs into walk-in showers, installing tub-cut outs, or widening doorways, each Aging in Place project is tailored to the unique needs of the homeowners, who also make final decisions on the work to be done.
(Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see examples of projects.)
Who does the work?
Our Certified Aging in Place Specialist and construction team will coordinate the work with trained volunteers and/or local companies.
What is the cost?
Our Aging in Place program is a hand-up not a hand out. Repayment is determined on a sliding scale based on homeowner income to ensure affordability. Aging in Place projects have a maximum cost of $7,500.
