Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity is Helping Older Adults Keep Their Independence

This is the 16th home Habitat for Humanity has repaired this year for an aging homeowner.

PROCTOR, Minn. – The Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity Age in Place program is geared to help aging homeowners maintain their independence.

The program takes away the stress of preserving homes for older adults with repair needs.

Project repairs can range from installing new handrails to re-leveling a porch.

The nonprofit believes the Age in Place program helps keep elderly folks in their homes even when maintenance can be tough.

“We know people don’t want to move out. You want to stay where you are comfortable or where your family has grown up,” said WLSHFH Community Engagement Associate Madeline Kvale.

Habitat for Humanity Board member Cheri Olson, who also happens to be a dedicated volunteer, says it excites her to hear the success stories.

She also thinks leaving a home can often be more expensive than staying and fixing the repairs.

“One lady could have friends over before she didn’t feel her steps were safe for people to come over. She could have people for coffee,” said Olson.

“If they are not already in a nursing home, the cost that they save are ridiculous on what they save in medical costs,” Olson continues.

The organization typically works with local churches to find candidates to be recipients of their services.

An application must be filled out to qualify.

Habitat for Humanity uses corporate sponsorships to fund the cost of materials, but they also recommend a small donation between 50 to 300 from recipients to cover any remaining costs.

Habitat for Humanity is still searching for more volunteers for an age in place project this Thursday.

Interested volunteers can meet at United Lutheran Church in Proctor at 8 am.