Robert Romano outlines free home-safety assessment and fall-prevention services for Pleasant Hill seniors

Robert Romano, a senior specialist with Mills Diablo, told the Pleasant Hill City Commission on Aging at its April 9 meeting that his organization operates a countywide home-safety assessment and fall-prevention program for residents aged 60 and older.

"It is for older adults 60 years and older throughout the county," Romano said, describing a free service funded through various sources. Romano said the program conducts an initial intake by phone or web request, deploys a contracted occupational therapist to assess the home, and—based on that assessment—arranges contractor installation of recommended modifications or provides non‑installed assistive devices.

The services Romano listed include installation of grab bars and stair-rail improvements, smoke alarms and fire blankets, shower chairs, toilet-seat risers and other devices intended to reduce fall risk. He said the typical turnaround from request to completion is about four to six weeks, with follow-up contacts at roughly two weeks and three months to check whether recommended changes are working.

The commission asked about referral sources and cost. Romano said health organizations and care managers (for example, Kaiser and other local providers) refer clients to the program and that eligible participants pay no direct fee: "It's completely free," he said. He clarified eligibility: homeowners may receive contractor-installed modifications; renters may receive and be assessed for devices but cannot have contractor-installed modifications performed without landlord agreement.

Romano also described complementary programs offered or supported by his organization, including a Matter of Balance class (a multi-week workbook and balance/education series) and an exercise class called On the Move, often taught by a physical therapist. He encouraged commissioners to help promote workshops and said outreach materials and checklists are available for distribution at senior centers and community events.

Members said they would follow up with Romano about coordinating class schedules and workshop locations at local senior centers. The commission noted falls are a leading cause of emergency-room visits for older residents and said the program's services would fit the board’s focus on safety and prevention.

The commission requested hard-copy flyers and a web link for sign-ups so the city can promote the program through its senior-center table and upcoming events.