High housing costs have become a burden to millions of Americans. More and more older adults who have fixed or low incomes are having a hard time making ends meet.

If you find yourself without enough money to cover your other needs after paying rent, you may want to learn more about low-cost housing for older adults.

The Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program is one option that can help you afford to age well at home and stay independent. The program combines lower-cost housing options with support services.

What is Section 202  supportive housing for older adults? 

Section 202 provides safe, comfortable, and affordable housing for older adults with low income. These housing options may cost less, but they come with more. Section 202 housing includes support services that can make it easier for you to live on your own for longer and with a better quality of life.

Today, the program helps older adults with rent at properties across the country. If you are approved for Section 202 housing, you pay a fixed price for rent that is equal to 30% of your adjusted income. The remaining costs are paid for by the government.

What are some features of Section 202 housing?

Aside from the lower cost, Section 202 housing also has features and support services that focus on the health, safety, and social well-being of its older residents. These vary across properties but may include:

  • Adaptability features: Section 202 housing is built to be safe and accessible for older adults with differing physical abilities. Features may include ramps, grab bars, wider doorways, and nonslip surfaces to help reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
  • Social engagement: Section 202 does not just build housing; it creates communities. These properties encourage social interaction with common spaces, congregate dining, and recreational activities that can bring you and other residents together.
  • Transportation services: Many Section 202 housing developments provide transportation services that can help you get to and from doctor appointments, the grocery store, and other places.
  • Housecleaning services: Since physical ability or health issues can make household chores challenging for older adults, you may be able to get cleaning services at some Section 202 properties.
  • Health and wellness programs: Some Section 202 communities offer meal programs, on-site fitness centers, access to community resources, and other services to promote healthy aging.

Section 202 housing is often located close to medical care, public transportation, shopping centers, parks, and social services. Having easy access to these resources can empower older adults to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Where can I learn more about housing assistance?

Get more information on Section 202 housing—including how to apply—with our easy-to-use online tool. Just visit BenefitsCheckUp.org and enter your ZIP code to get started. While you are there, browse for other money-saving programs that can help you pay for medications, food, transportation, and more.