Support Systems to Age in Place

Aging in place means staying in your home safely, comfortably, and independently for as long as possible. This guide explains practical services, devices, and simple next steps to help you do that—without worry or confusion.
Elderly man seeing outside the window

Quick help

  • Speak to a care planner: Get a free 15-minute consultation to review your needs and budget.
  • Check coverage: See if Medicare, Medicaid, or your Area Agency on Aging can help pay for services.
  • Start now: Request trusted, background-checked providers for home tasks, transportation, and safety devices.

Home Maintenance, Transportation, and Chore Services

What we can arrange

  • Home tasks: Repairs, deep cleaning, decluttering, painting, remodeling.
  • Yard and weather: Lawn care, leaf raking, snow shoveling, gutter cleaning.
  • Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, grocery trips, pharmacy pick-ups, social visits.

Payment and coverage

  • Medicaid or your local Area Agency on Aging may offer free or low-cost services if you qualify.
  • Private-pay options are available if you do not qualify for assistance.
  • Availability and rules vary by state and county.

How we protect you

  • Your life resource planning team vets providers. We run background checks, verify licenses, provide training, and supervise work.
  • We help you compare quotes and avoid scams or “no-show” problems.

Simple next steps

Tell us what you need help with this week (examples: snow removal, bathroom repair, ride to doctor).
We confirm coverage options and pricing.
You choose from approved providers. We schedule and confirm.

Assistive Technology: What It Means

Assistive technology includes tools and services that help you live more easily and safely at home. It can be a device, a change to your home, or simple training that makes day-to-day life easier.

Types of Assistive Technology and Services

A. Devices for daily living (not covered by Medicare)

Helpful items that improve comfort and safety:
  • Home modifications: Grab bars, stair lifts, bath lifts, chair and toilet lifts, non-slip flooring.
  • Mobility and safety: Ramps, handrails, lighting upgrades, medical alert systems.
  • Comfort and independence: Reachers, button hooks, easy-grip utensils, dressing aids, shoe horns, sensory aids.
  • Digital help: Computer or smartphone training, large-button phones, voice assistants.
Elderly woman using a reacher in a safe, modified home with grab bars and stair lift.
Doctor helping elderly woman with walker and oxygen equipment covered by Medicare.

B. Medicare-covered Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Medicare generally pays 80% for approved DME with a doctor’s order, after your deductible. Coverage depends on medical need and using a Medicare-enrolled supplier.
Examples include:
  • Oxygen equipment
  • Canes, walkers, and crutches
  • Wheelchairs and power scooters (note: scooters often have higher out-of-pocket costs)
How to qualify
  • Get a prescription from your healthcare provider.
  • Use a Medicare-enrolled supplier.
  • Ask about prior authorization and rental versus purchase.

C. Personal items that make life easier

  • Therapy tools, joint supports, and braces
  • Bathing and hygiene aids (shower chairs, handheld sprayers)
  • Dining and kitchen aids (easy-grip utensils, jar openers)
  • Clothing with easy fasteners and adaptive designs
Elderly woman using adaptive utensils and jar opener for independent living.
Elderly woman in accessible home with smart lighting and minimal stairs.

D. Adapting your living environment

  • Home layouts that reduce stairs and fall risks
  • Environmental controls (smart thermostats, voice-activated lights)
  • In-home support: Training on devices, exercise and recreation programs, customized transportation options

E. Guidance and advice

  • Books and caregiver guides: Meal planning, activities, music therapy, social engagement
  • Local help: Dial 211 or contact your Area Agency on Aging for counseling and resources
  • Private consultants for personalized plans
Caregiver and elderly woman reading a caregiving guide together at home.
Elderly homeowner reviewing accessibility renovation plans with contractor.

F. Home modification options

  • Do-it-yourself with help from family/friends (for small projects)
  • Hire a licensed contractor for safety-critical work
  • Use full-service companies specializing in accessibility and home mobility solutions Funding ideas
  • Medicaid waivers, Veterans benefits, nonprofit grants, utility company programs, and tax credits (where available)
  • Ask for a home safety assessment to target the most important changes first

G. Medical alert, monitoring, and prevention devices

  • Emergency alert buttons and fall detection (necklace or wrist)
  • 24/7 vital sign monitoring and wellness check-ins
  • Video doorbells and home cameras (privacy options available)
  • GPS trackers for wandering risks What to look for
  • Easy-to-press buttons, loud speakers, long battery life
  • Caregiver notifications by text or app
  • Trial period, clear monthly costs, and cancellation policy
Elderly woman using fall alert necklace and monitoring app with caregiver.

FAQs

Is Medicare the same as Medicaid?
No. Medicare is federal health insurance (primarily for age 65+). Medicaid is a state-run program based on income and assets. Some home services are only covered by Medicaid waivers.
How do I avoid scams?
Use providers vetted by your life resource planning team. Ask for written estimates, proof of insurance, and references. Do not pay in full upfront.
What if I live alone?
Set up a daily check-in call or text, install a medical alert device, and add motion-sensor lighting. We can help you start all three in one visit.
How soon can services start?
Many home tasks and rides can start within a few days. DME and larger home modifications may take longer due to orders and permits.
Are there free or low-cost rides?
Yes, often through your Area Agency on Aging, Medicaid transportation benefits, local volunteer groups, or senior center shuttles.