Local Government Restructuring Lab

The project focuses on facilitating aging-in-place for older adults in Tompkins County through home modifications. It emphasizes the necessity of adapting homes to meet the physical limitations of aging residents, enhancing their ability to live independently and safely. The project employs a cost-benefit analysis, demonstrating that the benefits of home modifications, such as improved livability and health outcomes, outweigh the associated costs. Key challenges include labor shortages and a lack of awareness among older adults about the need and availability of home modification services. The report proposes solutions like toolkits for guidance, flexible funding options, and partnership programs to address labor shortages.

Shunyi Hu, Jiahe Liang, Man Sze Li, and Chloe Long. “Home modifications for better aging-in-place in Tompkins County”  Fall 2023. ( Issue Brief | Toolkit )