By Mei-chen Wu | Taiwan 

Falls are a leading cause of injury among the elderly, often turning their homes into dangerous places. Recognizing this risk, Tzu Chi launched the An-Mei Elderly Care Initiative in 2020 to improve home safety for seniors. By installing grab bars, ramps, better lighting, and other modifications, the program empowers elderly residents to live with greater independence and dignity. 

Through this initiative, Tzu Chi has touched countless lives, transforming simple modifications into profound acts of care. 

Each home in Tzu Chi's An-Mei Elderly Care Initiative receives personalized care. The work is done with both precision and sincere dedication, creating beautiful results. | Photo by Jen-Chieh Lin | Taiwan 

Securing Homes, Protecting Lives 

For Ms. Wu, a 74-year-old widow with limited mobility, the initiative came at a critical time. Just days after losing her husband, volunteers visited her home to install grab bars tailored to her needs. “Walking feels unstable for me, and I’m always afraid of falling,” she shared. 

Volunteer Huang-Jui Chen carefully measured and installed the bars, ensuring they met her specific requirements. Afterward, Ms. Wu expressed her gratitude: “It’s so much easier now. This makes me feel safer. Thank you so much!” 

Before installing grab bars, volunteers carefully consult with the users to understand their habits and plan the positions for optimal safety. | Photo by Mei-Chen Wu | Taiwan 

Similarly, Mr. Liu, who lives alone and has limited use of his right hand due to an accident, received a specialized grab bar that accommodates his left-handed movements. Despite his challenges, he declined further assistance, saying, “Let this help go to someone who needs it more. I’ve seen others struggle much more than I do, and I’m just grateful I can still live independently.” 

Thoughtful and Personalized Care 

Each home in the An-Mei Initiative receives careful attention to detail. For Ms. Chang, an 83-year-old with knee surgeries, grab bars were installed at a height suited to her taller frame. Impressed by the precision and care, she said, “It’s so practical and beautifully done! Thank you for even cleaning up afterward.” 

Volunteers also educate families about home safety, ensuring that modifications address both immediate and long-term needs. This holistic approach fosters peace of mind for seniors and their caregivers alike. 

A Community Effort 

On January 22, 2021, Tzu Chi Social Worker Chih-Ming Chen (right) met with Shu-Nu Hsiao (second left) and the volunteer team to discuss safety assessment and implementation details. | Photo by Mei-Zhen Wu | Taiwan | 2021/01/22 

The success of the initiative is rooted in community collaboration. Local leaders, such as Yuanshan Village’s Shu-Nu Hsiao, play a pivotal role in identifying households in need. “People kept calling me, saying, ‘The bars are beautifully installed, and the volunteers even cleaned thoroughly. Thank you!’ But I told them, ‘Thank Tzu Chi volunteers, not me!’” she shared. 

Volunteers meticulously document safety assessments and repairs through Tzu Chi’s Home Safety Platform, ensuring transparency and efficiency in every project. 

On January 13, 2021, Tzu Chi Social Worker Chih-Ming Chen briefed the volunteer team at the Shuanghe Office in New Taipei City, emphasizing the importance of proper installation and inspection. | Photo by Mei-Zhen Wu | Taiwan | 2021/01/13 

Small Changes, Big Impact 

The An-Mei Elderly Care Initiative has transformed lives by turning homes into safer, more comfortable spaces. For elderly residents, these small changes are monumental—they restore confidence, reduce anxiety, and foster stronger bonds within communities. 

By spreading kindness and collaboration, Tzu Chi proves that even the simplest actions can lead to profound improvements. The initiative continues to bring safety and compassion to homes, nurturing a world where every senior can live with dignity and independence.