As older adults look for ways to stay independent and comfortable in the homes they love, the Sewickley Valley YMCA is proud to offer an additional independent-aid resource: Safe at Home. This free service provides certified home safety assessments for seniors in Allegheny and Beaver counties, helping reduce fall risks and increase confidence at home.
We sat down with Kara Russo, Community Resource Coordinator and Senior Home Safety Specialist, to learn more about the program and how it supports aging in place.
Q: What is Safe at Home, and who is it for?
Kara: Safe at Home is a free, in-home safety assessment designed for older adults who want to remain independent in their own homes. Many people want to stay where they feel most comfortable, but they may not realize how small changes—like better lighting or securing loose rugs—can make a big difference.
Q: What happens during a home safety assessment?
Kara: The YMCA has several Senior Home Safety Specialists who perform these assessments. During the visit, the specialist walks through the home with the resident and completes a certified checklist that looks at lighting, flooring, steps, bathrooms, grab bar placement, and general fall risks. It’s very interactive and tailored to the individual’s daily routines—how they move through the space, what they reach for, and what feels difficult or unsafe.
Q: Is YMCA staff certified to complete these assessments?
Kara: Yes. Several YMCA employees are certified through Age Safe America, which establishes national best practices for senior home safety. This ensures every assessment is thorough, reliable, and aligned with proven fall-prevention guidelines.
Q: What happens after the walk-through?
Kara: After the assessment, the specialist reviews recommendations with the resident and any caregiver who may be present. Some improvements are simple—like adding night lights or securing loose rugs. Others may involve installing grab bars or stair railings.
Q: Are any of the recommended safety items eligible for grant assistance?
Kara: Some recommended items may qualify for outside grant assistance, depending on the need. The YMCA does not provide or administer these grants, but we help residents understand where opportunities might be available. If any recommended improvements require professional installation, our team can also help connect residents with trusted, qualified contractors. The YMCA can also provide basic in-home safety items—such as night lights, non-slip rugs, or grab bars—supported by available program funding.
Q: Why is this program so important for older adults?
Kara: Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults, and most of them happen at home. A few small changes can significantly reduce those risks. What means the most is seeing how relieved people feel after the assessment—just knowing they have guidance, support, and a clear plan. It brings peace of mind not only to the individual, but also to family members and caregivers.
Q: Do families or caregivers participate in the visit?
Kara: Absolutely. Many families join the assessment, and it’s incredibly helpful. They often notice things the older adult doesn’t, and vice versa. We want the home to support everyone involved in caregiving and daily routines.
Q: How can someone schedule a Safe at Home assessment?
Kara: Anyone interested in a Safe at Home assessment can call 412-741-9622 ext. 131 or email SeniorCentral@sewickleyymca.org. We’ll set up a convenient time for the visit, and the assessment usually takes about an hour.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?
Kara: I love getting to know people and hearing their stories. Every home visit is different, and every person has unique needs. It’s an honor to help someone stay safely in the place they love. Knowing that a small change could prevent a fall—or simply bring more peace of mind—is incredibly rewarding.
Learn More
The Safe at Home program is part of the YMCA’s commitment to supporting older adults and caregivers across our community. If you or a loved one could benefit from a home safety assessment, contact us.