Thursday, April 11, 2024
AgeGuide is honoring Fair Housing Month by focusing on homeless older adults. Housing is an issue not only in our region but across the country. Did you know, for example, that there’s not a single county in the U.S. where people can afford a 2-bedroom apartment on minimum wage? For older adults on fixed incomes and with complex medical issues, this is especially challenging.
Of all people experiencing homelessness in the 2023 Homeless Assessment Report in the United States, 138,089 were over the age of 55. The 2023 report showed overall that older Americans were, in many places, becoming the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population.
How You Can Advocate for Homeless Older Adults
Advocating for older adults during Fair Housing Month can take various forms, ranging from raising awareness to actively engaging in policy advocacy. Here are some ways you can advocate for older adults during and beyond Fair Housing Month:
- Support Aging in Place: Many older adults prefer to age in place, remaining in their homes and communities as they grow older. Advocacy efforts can focus on supporting aging in place initiatives, such as affordable home modifications, community support services, and policies that enable older adults to remain in their homes safely and comfortably as they age.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about fair housing laws and regulations, as well as the specific housing challenges faced by older adults. Educate your community, friends, and family about the importance of fair housing for older adults and the rights they are entitled to.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Write letters to policymakers, attend public meetings, and advocate for legislative changes that promote fair housing for older adults. Support policies that enhance housing affordability, accessibility, and protection against discrimination based on age.
- Current Advocacy Issues to Support Aging in Place:
- SB 3436/HB 5267: Increases funding for the Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled Program (AABD), which provides monetary assistance to low-income Illinois residents who are elderly, blind, or disabled
- HB 4750: Property Taxes- Improves notification to property taxpayers about tax assistance programs available to secure exemptions or deferrals.
Resources
Fair Housing Guide for Seniors
Fair Housing Guide for Seniors: Housing Rights and Avoiding Housing Scams
Emergency and Transitional Housing Program
Illinois Supportive Housing Providers
