Waiting for housing assistance: characteristics and narrative accounts of low-income older persons. Issue 2 (4th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carder, Paula C.; Kohon, Jacklyn; Limburg, Aubrey; Becker, Emily
• Is Part Of: Housing and society. Volume 45:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 63
• Page End: 80
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04
• Subjects: Waiting list -- housing instability -- older adults -- health -- subsidized housing -- food access; Housing -- Periodicals; Housing -- Study and teaching; Housing -- Periodicals; Housing -- Study and teaching; Housing; Housing -- Study and teaching; Periodicals; 363.5
• DOI: 10.1080/08882746.2018.1488212
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0888-2746

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The availability of publicly subsidized rental assistance does not meet demand, making waiting lists a reality for many individuals who apply for assistance. However, information about waitlisted applicants has rarely been collected as a means of understanding the demand for rental assistance in the United States (US). Publicly financed rental assistance provides an important economic resource to nearly 2 million persons aged 65 and older. Because older persons are more likely than younger persons to experience chronic health conditions and disability, it is important to also understand how health influences applicants' perceived housing needs. The aims of this study were to describe the housing and health characteristics of older adults who applied for rental assistance. A mailed survey was completed by 267 waitlisted applicants aged 55 and older, and 29 of these respondents participated in a qualitative, in-depth interview. Survey results indicate that many applicants have poor health, experience housing instability, and lack social supports. Qualitative findings provide context regarding applicants' reasons for applying for rental assistance, and the relationship between health and housing. Insights learned from these individuals can inform housing program and policy planning and future research using a largely overlooked population.