Howard County is investing in its elderly residents with a fresh injection of funds aimed at maintaining their independence. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced a $1.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) bestowed upon the county's Office on Aging and Independence (OAI), as detailed by Howard County's press release. The Older Adult Home Modification Program (OAHMP) is the benefactor, an initiative designed to help low-income seniors make necessary changes to their homes, fostering greater safety and accessibility.
Calvin Ball expressed gratitude, according to the county's press release, saying, "We are grateful to HUD for this vital funding that support our continued efforts to develop an age-friendly, livable community, where our 50+ population can confidently, comfortably, safely and independently live and age in place." Carmel Roques, Maryland's Secretary of Aging, praised the commitment to aging-in-place efforts, a view echoed by Calvin Ball in the wake of the announcement.
The grant's ultimate goal is not only to keep older adults safe at home but also to cut healthcare costs. HUD's investment stands out for its expected high return: "Studies have shown that every $3,000 spent on home accessibility modifications can yield more than $20,000 in healthcare savings," according to Jackie Scott, Director of DCRS, as cited by the county's press release. The program is poised to not only make life easier and safer for the elderly but is also an economic move aimed at reducing overall healthcare spending.
To ensure the modifications are completed, the OAI is collaborating with local nonprofits such as Rebuilding Together Howard County. This partnership underlines the community's joint effort in this pursuit. Residents in need of home modifications can request an OAHMP home safety consultation through the provided email or by calling their office directly.
