Seniors in Maine Find Safer Homes with Small Fixes
Maine’s governor has recently added $2 million to a program that helps older residents keep living in their own homes by fixing small but vital safety issues.
How It Works
- Simple fixes: handrails, grab bars, better lighting.
- Low cost: each repair costs less than $3 000, a fraction of an emergency hospital stay.
- High impact: stops falls and promotes health.
In a state where one in four people are over 65, most seniors still live in houses built long before they needed extra safety. With no affordable new housing options, staying at home is often the only choice.
The “Comfortably Home” Story
- Founded: Ten years ago by a local nonprofit in Bath.
- Model expansion: In 2017, the state’s housing agency launched a grant program partnering with local authorities and nonprofits.
- Results: Over 8 600 repairs for 1 400 homeowners across 232 communities.
These quick installations immediately improve quality of life. Participants report feeling safer and more independent. One woman shared that a new rail on her stairs made it possible to leave the house without worry.
Proven Outcomes
| Metric | Drop |
|---|---|
| Falls | 24 – 89 % |
| Hospital visits | 15 – 76 % |
Given the average inpatient stay costs $18 658, each repair saves families and public services substantial money.
Legislative Support
In March, the state senate highlighted the program’s success after its tenth year and praised it as a model for other areas.
Next Steps
Bath Housing aims to secure steady funding, serve more families, and bring the program to underserved communities.
In a state where aging in place is both personal and public, this new funding and proven approach give older Mainers a better chance to stay safe in homes that feel like home.
