Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program

Background
The Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP) is administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through its Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. The program aims to assist experienced nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and public housing authorities in providing home modifications that enhance safety and accessibility for low-income seniors.

The overarching goal is to enable elderly individuals to 'age in place' by making their homes safer and more functional, thereby reducing the risk of falls and improving their overall quality of life.

Grant Details
The OAHMP focuses on delivering low-cost, high-impact home modifications tailored to the needs of low-income seniors aged 62 and older. Services include the installation of grab bars, railings, lever-handled doorknobs, adaptive equipment such as temporary ramps, tub/shower transfer benches, handheld shower heads, raised toilet seats, risers for chairs and sofas, and non-slip strips for tubs/showers or stairs.

The program emphasizes a person-centered approach where licensed Occupational Therapists (OTs) assess clients' needs and ensure that modifications align with their personal goals. At least one-third of the funding will be allocated to projects serving rural communities. Awardees are encouraged to avoid delays in project implementation by focusing on maintenance-level modifications that do not require extensive environmental reviews.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include experienced nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and public housing authorities. Applicants must serve low-income seniors who are homeowners or renters aged 62 or older. Previous OAHMP grant recipients from FY 2023 or those who received funding announced on April 9, 2024, are not eligible to apply under this program.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for the grant will be defined in accordance with the specific project timelines established by HUD but generally encompasses a multi-month timeframe necessary for project completion.

Grant Value
The maximum award amount has increased to $2,000,000 from $1,250,000 with a minimum award amount set at $1,000,000.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be performed in communities across the United States with a focus on areas serving low-income seniors.