Congregate Housing for the Low and Moderate Income Elderly-A Needed Federal State Partnership

Abstract

The doubling of the 85+ cohorts by the year 2000, and the further sim~lar growth of the 75+ cohorts is causing a major health care crisis. Up to 40 percent of the elderly institutionalized may be inappropriately placed; a more effective approach, and options for home-based care are needed. Congregate housing is one major option for low and moderate income elderly, particularly for those living in Federal or locally-subsidized housing. The current, successful Congregate Housing Services Program should be amended and expanded into a new Federalhate PARTNERSHIP for congregate housing.Alternatives to institutional placement for senior citizens is a major policy issue for this decade. As we are seeing, there is tremendous growth taking place in the senior population, particularly those 75+. The 75+ cohorts are growing at an annual rate of about t h r e e per-While the author is a Senior HUD staff person, this paper does not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of HUD nor of the Federal Government.Jerold S. Nachison, A.I.C.P., M.Sc., M.A., is currently Desk Officer for the Congregate Services Program in HUD, and works on the Section 202 program.