By Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan 

As Taiwan’s population ages, creating safe and supportive environments for the elderly has become an urgent priority. Recognizing this need, Tzu Chi Foundation launched the An-Mei Elderly Care Initiative in 2020. Over three to five years, the program aims to transform homes into safer spaces for seniors by installing features like grab bars, ramps, anti-slip flooring, and improved lighting. Beyond safety, it fosters dignity, independence, and community connections for elderly residents. 

A Community-Centered Launch 

 

At 8 a.m. on March 13, 2021, volunteers split into eight groups to begin home visits and safety assessments. | Photo by Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan | 2021/03/13

The initiative began its first project on March 13, 2021, in Yagou Neighborhood, Hemei Township. Nearly 50 Tzu Chi volunteers, alongside local leaders and community members, conducted safety assessments for 30 households. 

Community leader and former Tzu Chi commissioner, Li-Chun Wang, expressed her gratitude: “Seeing Tzu Chi volunteers walking through our community feels like a new beginning. Their philosophy is my spiritual nourishment, guiding me to humbly care for my neighbors as family.” 

Local volunteer Pi-Chu Tsai, who maintains six community parks, praised Tzu Chi’s efforts: “Their kindness is unmatched. I’m inspired to walk with them and support this meaningful work.” 

Local community volunteer Pi-Chu Tsai, wearing an orange vest, introduces the small park she maintains and expresses gratitude for Tzu Chi's help in supporting the residents. | Photo by Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan | 2021/03/13

Stories of Resilience and Compassion 

During the visits, volunteers encountered elderly couples facing profound challenges. 

One couple, both in their nineties, struggled with mobility. The husband, battling throat cancer, relied on his wife, who suffers from hip issues. Despite their son and grandchildren living with them, financial constraints prevented necessary home modifications. Tzu Chi stepped in, pledging immediate aid and follow-up care. 

Another couple’s story highlighted the harsh realities of caregiving. The husband, paralyzed after a fall, depended on his diabetic wife for 24-hour care. Volunteers identified urgent needs, such as installing additional grab bars in their bathroom to prevent further accidents. 

“Tzu Chi’s help eased our burden,” the wife shared. “We never expected such care and kindness.” 

Volunteers assess the grandmother’s mobility and measure the style and size of grab bars needed. | Photo by Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan | 2021/03/13

Uniting Hearts for a Safer Future 

One of the initiative’s most heartwarming aspects was the participation of families as volunteer teams. Parents brought children, couples worked side by side, and neighbors collaborated to enhance the community. 

Walking through vibrant parks and rice fields, volunteers brought warmth and safety to every corner, demonstrating that small acts of kindness could spark lasting change. 

“Joining this effort with my children taught them the importance of helping others,” shared one parent volunteer. “We felt the strength of unity and love as a community.” 

The elderly couple, both in their nineties, have limited mobility. Volunteers offered gentle comfort and compassion, provided emergency financial aid, and initiated follow-up care. | Photo by Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan | 2021/03/13 

Preventive Charity in Action 

The An-Mei Elderly Care Initiative goes beyond physical modifications—it embodies Tzu Chi’s philosophy of preventive charity, addressing problems before they escalate into crises. 

Volunteer Hsiu-Chao Lin reflected, “This initiative isn’t just about repairs. It’s about bringing peace of mind to families and ensuring that seniors live with dignity.” 

Tzu Chi volunteer Hsiu-Chao Lin shares a special case. After discussions, it was decided to open a case for follow-up, with repairs to be completed before closing the file. | Photo by Yen-Ni Wu | Taiwan | 2021/03/13 

By fostering safer homes and stronger communities, Tzu Chi’s vision of compassion takes tangible form. The initiative reminds us that even small, thoughtful actions can illuminate lives and build a more caring society.