What is Aging in Place?
Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and County Council passed legislation to provide a $4 million grant to Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities in 2024, and another $4 million grant in 2025. The Aging in Place Program is a Direction Home initiative designed to help older adults remain in their homes, navigate the digital world, and provide basic needs. The County is utilizing state funds from the Department of Aging and federal American Rescue Plan Act funds for the grant. Summit County residents not eligible for Medicaid that own their homes or rent aged 60 and up may apply for the program. They will be assessed based on need by Direction Home.
Updates- What is still available in Fall 2024? Who do I call?
Home Care- Demand has exceeded 2024 funding for home care services. Only waitlisted applications are accepted at this time. More funding will become available in 2025.
Home Modifications- Demand has exceeded 2024 funding for minor home modifications. Only waitlisted applications are accepted at this time. More funding will become available in 2025.
Chore Services- There is still funding available for those interested in chore services in 2024. Additionally, more funding will become available in 2025.
Digital Inclusion- Demand has exceeded funding for 2024 devices and internet. Only waitlisted applications are accepted at this time. More funding will become available in 2025.
To apply or join the waitlist for home care, home modification, chore services, or digital inclusion* call our Resource Center at 877-770-5558.
*If you are only interested in the digital inclusion program such as a tablet or internet, call 330-776-4001 to bypass the screening process.
What can Aging in Place help with?
Please read above for availability. The County’s grant will support three primary areas of need for older adults:
1. Care Coordination- A program that links older adults with a licensed professional (Registered Nurse or Licensed Social Worker) that creates and manages a community care and service plan providing supports such as: home delivered meals, emergency response systems, adult day service, and home care.
2. Digital Inclusion- Focuses on access to the internet through tablets and mifi/hotspots, as well as the ability to navigate online and digital tools, resources, and support through formal training and one-on-one consultations.
3. Chore Services/Minor Home Modifications- This offering will connect homeowners and renters with resources that will help create and/or keep a clean and safe living environment by completing small jobs such as furnace repair or one-time gutter cleaning.
Direction Home will collaborate with its large network of providers, as well as Executive Shapiro’s Department of Community Development, to serve County residents eligible for services.