Lowe's launches aging-in-place solutions
Lowe’s has launched a multi-year commitment to become the leading retail destination for aging-in-place and life-change solutions.
Through the new Lowe’s Livable Home program, the retailer will offer expertise, services and affordable products, with a range of styles and budgets to meet any ability by creating a one-stop destination for universal design options.
Included in the new program is an online and in-store collaboration in customer education with AARP, the largest non-profit organization dedicated to serving people 50 years and older and their families for more than six decades.
According to Lowe’s, its commitment comes at a critical time as preparing homes for all of life’s changes is one of the largest unseen issues in America. Less than 1% of U.S. homes have particular features needed to support aging in the home, according to AARP, while 77% of people aged 50 years and older would like to stay in their current home as long as possible.
Additionally, 8 in 10 adults aged 50 years or older want to stay where they live, but many people lack the expertise or resources to adapt to their home.
“Nearly every family in America at some point, including my own, faces the important and often intimidating responsibility of preparing a home for life’s changes,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “Lowe’s Livable Home is uniquely positioned to help address the customers' desire for a one-stop destination with trusted resources and affordable solutions they need throughout every step of the journey. It’s a commitment to our customers who turn to Lowe’s to make their homes better no matter what changes they face in life.”
Part of the new program is Lowes.com/LivableHome, which includes a virtual library of articles and videos. AARP will help create educational online content on the site focusing on taking age-friendly design action. AARP is also assisting in the training of Lowe’s associates.
Lowe’s is rolling out new signage in select stores nationwide through next year. The in-store enhancements are underway now in nearly 500 stores and nearly 50 metro areas and are expected to continue expanding throughout 2022
“People are living longer, and they want to live their best lives at every age,” said AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins. “Ageless homes that work for older adults are good for people of all ages, but most houses weren’t built to support our needs long-term. The best way to continue living in the home you love is to make healthy aging improvements today that will benefit you tomorrow.”
In select locations, Lowe’s said that its independent service providers network of professionals will also provide assessments, installation and ongoing customer service support for installations and remodeling ranging from low-threshold shower installation to more simple installations of grab bars and temporary or permanent stair lifts and ramps.