Prince William Area Agency on Aging and AARP to Host ‘Safe & Sound’ Event on Aging in Place

AARP surveys consistently show that older adults want to remain in their homes as long as possible. To help make that a reality, the Prince William Area Agency on Aging and Prince William AARP are hosting "Safe & Sound: Home Modifications for Aging in Place," a free community event offering valuable tips and resources to support aging at home. 

The event will take place on Friday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at VFW Post 1503, located at 14631 Minnieville Road. The program will kick off with a one-hour workshop highlighting practical home modifications that can enhance safety and comfort, ensuring residents can stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible. 

"We know that most older adults want to remain in their homes for as long as possible, but that often requires making adjustments to ensure safety and accessibility," said Joshua Lee, Acting Director of the Prince William Area Agency on Aging. "The Safe & Sound workshop is an invaluable opportunity for our residents to learn practical modifications and connect with experts who can help them navigate this process. By making simple changes today, we can empower older adults to maintain their independence, stay engaged in their communities and enjoy a higher quality of life for years to come." 

Simple home modifications can make a significant difference in creating a safe living environment. Experts will share insights on solutions such as: 

• Installing no-step entrances and ramps 

• Lowering kitchen appliances, such as microwaves, to countertop level 

• Adding motion-sensor or timer-controlled lighting 

• Upgrading to walk-in showers and installing grab bars 

“We want to help people learn the modifications they can make in their home to stay comfortably and safely as long as possible,” said AARP Associate State Director for Community Outreach Amber Nightingale. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with experts from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Virginia State Veterans Program, AARP’s Veterans & Military Families Program and Project Mend-a-House to learn about available services and resources. 

Additionally, exhibitors from the National Association of Black Military Women, Prince William County’s Neighborhood Housing Rehabilitation Program, Virginia Housing, OmniRide and Legal Services of Northern Virginia will be on hand to provide valuable information. 

Participants will receive a free copy of AARP’s HomeFit Guide, which offers practical steps for applying the tips shared at the event. Those who register in advance by calling 877-926-8300 or online at "Safe & Sound: Home Modifications for Aging in Place" will be entered into a drawing for a $100 Lowe’s gift card. 

The Prince William Area Agency on Aging is dedicated to maintaining independence and enhancing the quality of life for older adults and their families by advocating, educating, coordinating and implementing essential programs and services. To learn more, visit pwcva.gov/aaa. 

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working on behalf of people aged 50 and older and their families. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/.

To register for this free workshop, visit events.aarp.org/HF0321.