As a part of the Fair Housing Act (FHAct), senior citizens receive protection from discrimination in regards to housing. As a way to make sure that they receive fair treatment, HUD offers senior housing programs and HUD housing assistance designated to meet the needs of senior citizens.
What is Housing for Older Persons?
The HUD FHAct defines “housing for older persons” as HUD apartments, HUD approved condos, HUD homes or suitable non-HUD affiliated dwellings. They include:
- Homes specifically designed for and occupied by elder persons as determined by HUD and administered by federal, state or local government programs.
- Houses with at least one person who is 55 or older in at least 80 percent of the occupied units that adhere to a policy that demonstrates intent to house persons who are 55 or older.
Senior Housing Programs
In finding the right housing for older persons, HUD offices oversee various housing programs:
- Rental assistance: If you want to find a HUD home or apartment that offers low rent, HUD offers assistance in finding these dwellings.
- Housing Choice vouchers: This HUD program is not just meant for seniors but comes in handy when helping those with low incomes afford privately-owned rental housing.
- Units for individuals with disabilities: This program assists seniors and the disabled to find units suitable for their needs.
Finding assistance for senior citizens is not always easy to do alone. So if you’re in need of assistance, contact HUD to find the help you need.
