Dealing with broken, damaged or fallen trees on the property can be extremely challenging. Homeowners often face the difficult task of finding and paying for professional (and highly expensive) tree removal services, especially after a severe storm. Removing these trees is crucial to prevent pest infestation, stop root disintegration, and improve the aesthetics of their lawns. Several programs provide free or subsidized tree removal for seniors aged 65 and older.
Benefits of tree removal grants and services
Professional tree removal services may occupy a niche in the home improvement sector, but they are incredibly valuable for elderly people in society. There are several positive aspects of these services.
1. Enhanced accessibility
The debris of broken trees often takes up a lot of space, which blocks the entrance and exit spaces in properties. This is why, clearing the debris out helps to improve the accessibility of a given lawn and the overall property owned or lived in by elders. If the debris occupies roads or pavements, removing them makes movement easier for the residents of a given location. Moreover, those who use mobility aids can greatly benefit from the removal of tree debris from their lawns or other spaces.
2. Improved lawn/surrounding aesthetics
It goes without saying that withered or broken-down trees do not make for great viewing in a lawn or other open spaces. Clearing the debris automatically boosts the aesthetic appeal of the space and makes the surroundings more accessible for seniors.
3. Reduced possibility of pest infestation
Insects and pests tend to thrive in the moist portions of broken-down trees and roots. If left unaddressed, these zones are likely to turn into fully infested areas with the potential for disease outbreaks. Further, older adults with compromised immune system may be susceptible to pest or bacteria-related diseases.
Government grants and free tree removal programs ensure that these benefits do not come at the cost of economic strain on the elderly.
Tree removal programs
1. Tree removal assistance by non-profit organizations
Seniors seeking tree removal services can look toward non-profit organizations as a potential resource. Non-profit companies dedicated to helping seniors maintain their homes operate across the country and may provide tree removal services either free of cost or at highly reasonable rates. This is crucial for seniors, many of whom may struggle to afford them on limited income. Financial assistance from such organizations can be a lifeline for many seniors who want to maintain their homes and living spaces periodically.
One such program is the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), which provides a host of assistance services to the elderly, including home and lawn maintenance for seniors. The AAA program employs tree experts who offer professional tree removal services at reasonable prices, making it easier for seniors to access the help they need.
The initial consultation with AAA’s arborist is absolutely free of charge. AAA’s service providers are dedicated to providing top-quality care for seniors’ lawns, plants, shrubs, and trees, with a focus on enhancing their lifespan, beauty, and overall value to the home.
2. Homeowner’s insurance policy
While this may not be a “completely free” option, it is undeniably valuable and can be a viable option in times of need. Many insurance providers offer coverage for damaged trees. This means that they can cover the expenses associated with hiring professional services to help older homeowners clear their properties of fallen trees and debris. This is just one of the many compelling reasons why individuals should invest in comprehensive homeowner’s insurance policies to safeguard their homes and overall property.
3. Community volunteer program
Local community groups in a town or city conduct periodic drives to assist seniors with home and property maintenance. These services are invaluable for the elderly, many of whom may not even be able to physically move tree branches and debris from their lawns. Community volunteer programs help seniors in multiple ways.
- Post-retirement assistance initiatives
These teams involve a group of volunteers dedicated to assisting retirees in their community with tree removal and similar other tasks. - Local student partnerships
School and college students often partake in initiatives that help seniors with property maintenance. The involvement of young students doing invaluable work for the welfare of the elderly promotes intergenerational connections and reinforces the power of the community. - Intergenerational volunteer programs
Similar to the previous one, this program brings individuals from various age groups and economic backgrounds together to assist the older adults in their community. Unlike student partnerships, these programs do not involve the presence of an institution to lead efforts in tree removal initiatives for seniors over 65.
4. Free services by local utility companies
Utility companies may provide free or subsidized tree removal services in certain situations. These companies have the resources to methodically remove trees that can potentially damage their power lines and other utility infrastructure.
For example, a power company may offer free tree-trimming services to elderly individuals to prevent power outages caused directly by overgrown trees. This initiative provides seniors with the opportunity to have professional help remove damaged trees or debris without having to invest a significant amount of time, money, and effort.
