State Profile: Michigan
Welcome to the Michigan State Profile Page! This page features a sample of survey and research results from a comprehensive review of state and local home modification activities across the country. It has a special focus on the aging population and the efforts of State Units on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, and Native American aging service programs that are funded by the Older Americans Act Title VI Grants for Indian Tribal Organizations.
Check back as new updates will be posted periodically! Have any changes or additions? Please contact homemods@usc.edu
SPOTLIGHT ON STATE LEVEL HOME MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES
This section shares information that demonstrates the need for home modification in this state and highlights some of the state's important home modification efforts, policies, and funding sources.
This report by the USC Fall Prevention Center of Excellence and ADvancing States reports on a national survey
Michigan Aging and Adult Services Agency (State Unit on Aging)
State Units on Aging (SUAs) are designated state-level agencies that develop and administer state plans that advocate for and provide assistance, including home modifications or repairs, to older residents, their families, and adults with physical disabilities. SUAs administer funds, including Older Americans Act funds, which may be used to support home modification or repair services through local Area Agencies on Aging and other state and local entities.
1
Home Injury Control and Home Repair
The Michigan State Unit on Aging has established home repair and home modification/home injury control as approved services under the Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III-B.
2
Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program is funded by the Federal Department of Energy (DOE) and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and is administered by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS). The program provides energy conservation and related health & safety services for eligible low-income households at no cost to the resident. MDHHS contracts with local weatherization operators at Community Action Agencies across the state. Each agency provides services to a designated area, ensuring that all counties in Michigan can benefit from this energy-saving program.
3
Children’s Waiver Program
The Children’s Medicaid Waiver Program provides community-based services for children who are under age 18 who have a documented developmental disability and need medical or behavioral services at home. Supports include environmental accessibility adaptations.
4
Habilitation Supports Waiver
The Habilitation Supports Waiver (HSW) provides services that are enhancements or additions to Medicaid State Plan coverage for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities aged 0 or older who meet an institutional level of care. It can include environmental modifications for individuals.
SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL HOME MODIFICATION EFFORTS
This section shares information that demonstrates the need for home modification in this state and highlights some of the state's important home modification efforts, policies, and funding sources.
This Data Brief highlights key findings from the 2019 National Survey of Area Agencies on Aging on how Area Agencies on Aging are providing and funding home modification and repair activities. It was developed by the USC Fall Prevention Center of Excellence in partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging as part of the Administration for Community Living project, “Promoting Aging in Place by Enhancing Access to Home Modifications.”
1
Senior Safety Team
Midland County’s Senior Services offers a Senior Safety Service for older adults residing in the county. A volunteer team helps older adults maintain their homes by making them safe and secure. Services are free but donations are requested. A handyman team may provide the following services: securing exterior doors, windows and screens; repairing lights and improving exterior areas of the home to ensure safety; addressing slip hazards inside the home; ensuring secure stairs and handrails; and installing grab bars and raised toilet seats.
2
Handyman program
The Bay County Department on Aging offers a Handyman Program that includes “light” home repairs. A fee is determined based on income and recipients are responsible for the cost of all materials. Home repairs requiring a permit or a licensed professional are not eligible.
3
Home Safety Assessments
WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging has a Home Safety Assessments program that examines safety issues inside and outside of the house for individuals in the community. The assessments are conducted by a home safety specialist and a report is provided with recommended modifications. The Information and Referral staff identifies resources to assist with any home modifications or repairs.
4
Minor Home Repair Service
The Minor Home Repair Service of the Gratiot County Commission on Aging provides a home maintenance service focused on extending the life of an owner-occupied home and helping to maintain minimum health and safety standards. Clients pay for the materials. Services may include: minor roof repair, window repair, correct faulty plumbing, repair stairs, install or repair railings, and building wheelchair ramps as needed.