Please contact Denise, 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 65 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.
Am I eligible?
You may qualify for the program if you meet the following criteria:
- You are 65, or older or someone who lives in your home full-time is age 65 or older, or you are a homeowner with a disability
- You own and live in your home full-time (rental properties are not eligible for this program)
- Your home is in Douglas County, MN, and have lived there for at least one year
- Your income falls below 80% of the median income for Douglas County
- Provide proof of insurance on the home
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. Example projects include installing handrails, ramps, comfort height toilets, lever door handles, and stair gates. Many projects focus on improving the safety of bathrooms by adding sliding shower seats, fitting tub cut-outs to make entry easier, and installing grab bars.
(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.
How do I apply?
Call our office at 320-762-4255 to request an application or click below to download and print the application.
Example projects:
Aging in Place Resources
AARP created the HomeFit Guide to help people of any age, life stage or physical ability live safely and comfortably in their home or apartment. The guide provides tips for making each room of the home more safe. AARP HomeFit Guide Link
