For more information on our Aging in Place Program

please contact Brianna Gruenberg at 218-359-0814 or brianna@lakeagassizhabitat.org.

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 have a need for adequate housing – some factors considered include:
  • The functional areas of the home are in disrepair or unsafe and Habitat’s scope of work can benefit the homeowner.
  • The homeowner is unable to physically and/or financially complete the work.
• You own and live in your home full-time (rental properties are not eligible for this program)
• Your home is in Clay County, MN, or Cass County, ND and you have lived there for at least one year.
• Your income falls below 80% of the median income for Cass and Clay County for household size.
• Have the ability to repay the loan.
• Provide proof of current homeowners insurance.
• If there is a mortgage, current on payments.
• Applicant (and all adult household members) must consent to criminal background and sex offender registry checks.
• Willingness to partner with Habitat.

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 through the pictures to see examples of the projects we can help with)

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 218-359-0814 to request an application or click below to download and print the application.