How to Get Help with Home Repairs for Seniors

Many seniors want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. However, as we age, our homes might not be as safe or accessible as they once were. Simple tasks can become difficult, and the risk of falls increases. The good news is that there’s help available to make your home safer and more comfortable, allowing you to live independently for longer.

The Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program (OAHMP) is a federal program designed to help seniors age in place safely. It provides funding for low-cost, high-impact home modifications to reduce the risk of falling, improve safety, and increase accessibility. This article will explain what the OAHMP is, who is eligible, and how you can apply for this valuable assistance.

What is the Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program?

The Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program (OAHMP) is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Its main goal is to help low-income older adults live safely and independently in their own homes by providing necessary modifications.

Instead of funding major renovations, the program focuses on practical, low-cost improvements that make a big difference in daily life. This helps seniors avoid moving into nursing homes or other assisted care facilities, which can be expensive and disruptive. The program uses the expertise of Occupational Therapists to ensure that the modifications are tailored to the specific needs of each individual.

Who is Eligible for the Program?

To receive help from the OAHMP, you generally need to meet a few key requirements. While the specific details can vary by location, here are the typical eligibility criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 62 years old.
• Income: You must be a low-income homeowner. Income limits vary by location, so you will need to check with the local agency that manages the program in your area. For example, some programs require you to be eligible for fuel assistance.
• Residency: You must live in an area served by an agency that has received an OAHMP grant. The program is not available everywhere, so you’ll need to check for local providers.
• Homeownership: The program is for people who own and live in their primary residence. Renters may also be eligible but will need to get written permission from their landlord to have the modifications done.

What Types of Modifications Are Offered?

The program focuses on low-cost, high-impact modifications that improve safety and accessibility. It does not cover major structural repairs, new roofs, or fixing code violations. The total value of the work is often capped, for example, at around $5,000 per home.

Common modifications include:

• Bathroom Safety: Grab bars, shower chairs, raised toilet seats, non-slip strips for tubs and showers, handheld shower heads, walk-in tubs, and comfort-height toilets.
• Entry & Mobility Support: Handrails for stairs and hallways, temporary and permanent ramps, threshold ramps, stair lifts, bed or seating mobility bars, and vertical platform lifts.
• Lighting Improvements: Motion-activated lights for pathways, brighter bulbs to reduce glare, illuminated light switches, nightlights, and additional lighting in key areas such as kitchens and entryways.
• Accessibility Enhancements: Lever-style door handles, swing-away door hinges, widened doorways for wheelchair access, removal of thresholds, easy-to-use faucets, and accessible cabinet hardware.
• Flooring & Surface Modifications: Low-pile carpeting, slip-resistant flooring, removal of tripping hazards, and flooring transitions suitable for walkers and wheelchairs.
• Kitchen Adaptations: Lowered countertops, pull-out shelves, anti-scald devices for sinks, and accessible appliance controls.
• Smart Home Devices and Technology: Voice-activated assistants, smart thermostats, doorbell cameras, automated lighting controls, and medical alert systems.
• Safety Devices: Installation or replacement of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

These modifications are chosen to support independence and reduce the risk of falls and accidents, enabling seniors to live safely in their own homes. Installation or replacement of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

How to Apply for an OAHMP Grant

If you think you might be eligible for the Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program, here’s how to get started:

1. Find a Local Provider:
   The first step is to connect with an organization in your area that participates in the OAHMP program. These are usually local government agencies, public housing authorities, or nonprofit organizations approved by HUD. You can find one near you by using Eldercare Locator website or by calling 1-800-677-1116 to speak with a representative. 
2. Gather Your Information: When you contact the agency, be prepared to provide information about your age, income, and living situation. Having documents like a fuel assistance eligibility letter can be helpful if the local program requires it.
3. Follow the Application Steps: The agency will guide you through their specific application process. Be prepared to complete a survey and schedule an in-home assessment. The entire process, from application to completion of the work, can take several months, so it’s a good idea to apply as soon as you can.
4. Gather Your Information: When you contact the agency, be prepared to provide information about your age, income, and living situation. Having documents like a fuel assistance eligibility letter can be helpful if the local program requires it.
5. Follow the Application Steps: The agency will guide you through their specific application process. Be prepared to complete a survey and schedule an in-home assessment. The entire process, from application to completion of the work, can take several months, so it’s a good idea to apply as soon as you can.

How Does the Program Work?

The process is designed to be straightforward and focused on your specific needs. It involves an assessment, professional recommendations, and coordination with contractors to get the work done.

1. Contact the Program: The first step is to get in touch with the local agency that administers the OAHMP in your area. This is often an Area Agency on Aging or a community action organization. You can usually contact them by phone or email.
2. Initial Screening: You will likely complete a survey over the phone or online. This helps the agency prioritize applicants based on need and safety concerns.
3. In-Home Assessment: If you appear eligible, the program coordinator will schedule an in-home visit. This visit will include a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) and the program coordinator.
4. Work Order: The OT will evaluate your home and your ability to perform daily activities. Based on this assessment, they will recommend specific modifications. The coordinator will then create a work order and send it to an approved contractor.
5. Inspection: Once the contractor has completed the work, the coordinator will inspect it to make sure it meets the required standards.

Relief Recap

Taking these steps can help you or your loved one live more safely and comfortably at home. Don’t delay—reach out today to start the process and get the support you need.