AARP Factsheets

These factsheets, prepared in partnership with AARP's Public Policy Institute, describe some of the housing challenges facing America's aging population and present solutions to those problems. For a summary of the issues presented in these factsheets, view the related Insight on the Issues publication. For more details on the topics described below, visit the HousingPolicy.org policy guide, Meet the Housing Needs of Older Adults.

	Adult Foster Care Many people who need long-term services and supports (LTSS) would like more options for receiving services in small residential settings. Adult foster care offers a more intimate, homelike alternative to institutional care. As states attempt to "balance" LTSS to offer consumers a broader array of services, they need toconsider how to develop, regulate, and fund an array of home and community-based services, including adult foster care. Read the Factsheet

	Cohousing for Older Adults Though relatively new on the residential landscape, cohousing is emerging as an appealing living arrangement for aging adults. Both the physical design and the practice of caring for neighbors as they age make this form of "collaborative housing" appropriate for some adults who wish to age in place among friends and neighbors. Read the Factsheet

	Connecting Existing Homes with Social Services Many older adults do not need around-the-clock assistance, but could safely and comfortably remain in their own home with access to some supports. Arrangements that coordinate the delivery of social services to existing homes respond to many older adults’ preference to “age in place.” Read the Factsheet

	Expanding Implementation of Universal Design and Visitability Features in the Housing Stock As adults age and their physical abilities change, they may face environmental impediments in their home that make living independently a challenge. Universal design and visitability features can improve residential safety and usability for older adults and people with disabilities. Read the Factsheet

	Home Modifications to Promote Independent Living Many adults wish to remain in their home as they grow older. Most existing homes, however, have structural barriers that can make it difficult for older adults andpeople with physical limitations to address their daily needs without assistance. Home modifications can increase safety, accessibility, and independence for older adults in their own homes. Read the Factsheet

	Housing Policy Solutions to Support Aging in Place Older adults make up the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population, and as they retire and live longer on fixed incomes, the demand for quality, affordable, accessible housing in close proximity to services and other amenities will only increase. Public policy should support a variety of housing options for older adults, including those that allow them the choice to age in their homes and communities. Read the Factsheet

	Linking Transportation and Housing Solutions for Older Adults Safe, affordable, and accessible transportation choices are critical for older adults who wish to remain independent. Through transportation program improvements and improved coordination of housing, transportation, and land-use policy, communities can help ensure that older adults have good transportation access to needed services and amenities. Read the Factsheet

	Supportive Housing Supportive housing developments make it possible for older adults to access the social and health services they need while remaining in a residential setting. Read the Factsheet

	Weatherization "Weatherization" refers to a collection of improvements that increase the energy efficiency of existing homes, lower utility bills, and create a more comfortable and healthy living environment. The passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 dramatically expanded overall funding of the Weatherization Assistance Program, extending the benefits of energy efficiency to an increasing number of households. Read the Factsheet