Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#104)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Offer multifamily housing owners the option to implement accessibility and repair upgrades to support older adults and individuals with disabilities in rental units. Establish a rehabilitation or retrofit program for accessibility upgrades in multifamily housing, modeled after the Residential Emergency Services to Offer (Home) Repairs to the Elderly (RESTORE) program.
Justification
Providing a retrofit program would enhance the safety and accessibility of rental units, allowing older adults and people with disabilities to age in place comfortably. By focusing on existing housing this approach ensures that critical upgrades can be made efficiently and cost-effectively.
Full Proposal
Provide an option for multifamily housing owners to implement accessibility and repair upgrades to benefit older adults and individuals with disabilities in rental units.
- Create a rehabilitation or retrofit program for accessibility upgrades in multifamily housing modeled after the RESTORE program.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as long-term. This proposal is likely more appropriately focused on the Access to Home program than on the RESTORE program. Retrofit programs are currently being implemented to improve housing accessibility throughout the state. DOH and state agency partners could continue to assess the redesign and expansion of programs like Access to Home. Any additional resources or funding allocations would be subject to the annual budget process and available resources.