Seniors now have more time to sign up for a program that could get them up to $6,000 in home upgrades. 

The safety upgrade money is through the Enhanced Home Care for the Elderly program, and can be used to purchase things that can make senior’s lives better.  

Through the program, eligible seniors can access up to $6,000 in:

• Home modifications, such as a no-slip ramp or shower grab bar.
• Fall detection or door opening detection alerts.
• Medical monitoring devices that track vitals, blood pressure or glucose.
• Accessible smart home devices, such as vacuums, thermostats, or doorbells.
• Other high-impact interventions that support independence.

A Senior Resource Alliance official, which is Central Florida’s Area Agency on Aging, says they are finding seniors are hesitant to apply for this money because of many scams. But, this state-funded program is a partnership through several agencies to help seniors live independently in their own homes. 

“We know that evidence tells us that seniors do so much better when they live in community, when they live surrounded by what is familiar to them, around their loved ones, around community, around family,” said Karla Radka, president and CEO of Senior Resource Alliance.

The deadline to apply has now been pushed back to Dec. 31. To be eligible for the program, you must be 60 years old or older and either be enrolled in Florida Medicaid or be at risk of nursing home placement. This applies to those living in Orange, Osceola, Seminole or Brevard counties.