Home modifications for aging in place — grab bars, ramps, stairlifts, bathroom renovations — can cost thousands of dollars. For many seniors on fixed incomes, this creates a real barrier to the safety improvements they need. Fortunately, a range of grant programs, low-interest loans, and other financial assistance options exist specifically for this purpose. This guide outlines the main sources of help and how to access them.
Federal Programs
Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
Medicaid, the federal-state health insurance program for low-income individuals, includes Home and Community-Based Services waivers that in many states cover home modifications. Coverage and eligibility varies significantly by state — some states cover grab bars and ramps; others cover more extensive modifications. Contact your state Medicaid office or a local elder law attorney to understand what is available in your state.
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program
For homeowners in rural areas, the USDA’s Section 504 Home Repair Program provides grants (for homeowners 62 and older, up to $10,000) and low-interest loans (1% interest rate) for home repairs and modifications. Eligibility is income-based. Apply through your local USDA Rural Development office.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for significant home modification grants through the VA. The Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant can provide up to $100,896 (2023 figures, adjusted annually) for major modifications. The Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant provides up to $20,215. The Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grant helps veterans living temporarily in a family member’s home. Contact your regional VA office or a Veterans Service Organization for eligibility information.
State Programs
Most states have at least one home modification assistance program for seniors, administered through the state’s department of aging or housing. Programs vary widely — some provide direct grants, others provide no-interest or deferred loans. Common state program names include “Senior Home Repair Grants,” “Independent Living Program,” and “Weatherization Assistance Program” (which sometimes covers safety modifications).
The best way to find state programs is through your local Area Agency on Aging. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to be connected with your local AAA, which maintains current information on available local and state programs.
Local and Nonprofit Programs
Rebuilding Together: A national nonprofit with local affiliates that provides free home repair and modification services to low-income homeowners, including seniors. Services include safety modifications, accessibility improvements, and energy efficiency updates. Find your local affiliate at rebuildingtogether.org.
Community Action Agencies: Local nonprofits in every state that administer a range of low-income assistance programs, including sometimes home modification assistance. Find yours at communityactionpartnership.com.
Habitat for Humanity Home Repair Programs: Many local Habitat affiliates run home repair and modification programs in addition to new home construction. Contact your local Habitat affiliate.
Local Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Many cities and counties administer CDBG funds that can be used for home modification assistance for low-income residents. Contact your city or county housing department.
Tax Benefits
Some home modifications may qualify as medical expense deductions for federal income tax purposes. Modifications that are primarily for medical reasons — grab bars, ramps, widened doorways for wheelchair access — and that do not increase the home’s market value may be deductible. Consult a tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Insurance and Medicare
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover home modifications. However, some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) include supplemental benefits that cover home safety modifications. If you have Medicare Advantage, review your plan’s Summary of Benefits or call your plan’s member services to ask specifically about home modification coverage. Long-term care insurance policies sometimes include home modification benefits — review your policy or contact your insurer.