Connecting Seniors to Resources: The Power of Local Support

This week’s Barrier-Free Bulletin highlights a simple but powerful truth: aging in place isn’t just about grab bars and ramps—it’s about connection. The City of Tualatin is proving this by organizing Senior Resource Fairs that bring together service providers, assistive tech vendors, and support organizations to meet with older adults and their caregivers directly.

It’s a community-centered model that helps seniors access the tools, knowledge, and relationships they need to remain safe, supported, and independent in their own homes.

Tualatin’s Aging-in-Place Initiative Brings Resources Directly to Seniors

A new Tualatin Life feature showcases the city’s Aging in Place initiative, built around Senior Resource Fairs designed to connect older residents and caregivers with local service providers.

The fairs feature a range of topics and vendors—from home safety and mobility devices to estate planning, in-home care, and assistive technology. It's a practical, face-to-face way for residents to get answers, explore options, and make meaningful progress toward aging safely and comfortably at home.

This approach shows how local government and community partners can come together to reduce barriers and increase independence—no remodeling required.

Read the full article here

Senior Resource Fairs & Community-Based Outreach

Rather than expecting seniors to find services on their own, resource fairs flip the model—bringing services to them.

?? One-stop access to providers of home care, safety assessments, legal planning, and health services ?? Free consultations and information to help older adults plan proactively ?? Community engagement that strengthens trust and increases access to support

Events like these are often low-cost or free, and cities or nonprofits can organize them with the help of local partners. It’s one of the most effective ways to support aging in place at scale.

Why Outreach Matters: Making Accessibility More Accessible

Even the best tools, services, and funding don’t matter if the people who need them don’t know where to start. That’s where community engagement comes in:

?? In-person events build trust—especially important for seniors who may not be tech-savvy or may be overwhelmed by online options. ?? Fairs make comparison easier—families can ask questions and compare options side-by-side. ?? Caregivers benefit too—resource fairs help family and professional caregivers find support systems they didn’t know existed.

Aging in place works best when it’s supported by real people, practical information, and face-to-face conversations.

The City of Tualatin is showing how local leadership and creative outreach can create an aging-in-place ecosystem that supports the whole person—not just their home layout.

Whether you’re a city official, a nonprofit leader, or a professional working with seniors, this model offers a simple but powerful takeaway: meet people where they are—and bring the resources with you.

Want help creating or supporting a program like this in your own community? Reach out to [email protected].