Housing is a major problem for many older adults in the U.S. The fact that most of them are already out of work makes it hard for them to land worthwhile accommodation. A lot of the time, it happens that either the elderly cannot afford good houses or the available accommodations are not designed with their needs in mind.
That is why the department of housing and urban development came up with an assistance program in the form of senior housing. Moving to senior housing in Parkland, FL grants you access to affordable accommodations built to cater to the needs of the elderly. Let us take a keen look at these amazing properties and find out whether you qualify for rent subsidies.
Defining Senior Housing
As you can already guess, senior housing is a term used to describe a residential neighborhood or community specifically designated to house and accommodate older adults. The residence is designed in a way that meets the needs and requirements of the elderly.
Senior housing is a constitutional requirement implemented per the provisions of the Housing of Older Persons Act as well as the Fair Housing Act. Essentially, it is a housing solution meant for occupants that are at least 62 years and beyond.
The residents of the senior housing community might not be entirely older adults but the constitution demands that 80% of all the housing units must accommodate persons aged 55 years and above. Not only do these provisions apply to government houses but also to private establishments that offer senior housing. The government undertakes to subsidize the rent of all older adults residing in the senior housing units. It caps their total rent at exactly 30% of what they get as monthly income.
How does Senior Housing Differ from Assisted Senior Living?
The two terms sound almost similar, making it easy for people to believe they have a similar meaning. However, that is not the case. To begin with, assisted senior living refers to a specialized living arrangement where older adults or disabled elderly people receive assistance with their daily needs from trained caregivers.
On the other hand, senior housing is an accommodation unit set aside for older adults with limited financial capabilities. A huge chunk of assisted living centers may be categorized under senior living but not every senior housing unit falls under assisted living.
Senior Housing Qualifications
There are strict and specific standards that you must meet to qualify for senior housing. The qualification also depends on the type of property you are applying for as well as the prevailing local rules. Most importantly, your eligibility for senior housing depends on your income situation and age.
For instance, houses meant for retirees aged above 62 years will stick to that requirement. Properties with an age limit of 55+ demand that at least one of the family members should fall within this range. Such houses can accommodate other family members and even children as long as one of them is an older adult. Apart from satisfying the age requirement, your income will be verified to ensure you deserve housing assistance. FacebookTwitterLinkedInEmail