Area of Expertise: Aging and Older Adults

Supportive housing providers are encountering a significant demographic shift as the population of older adults, particularly those aged 50 and above with histories of homelessness, continues to grow. This “graying” of the tenant base presents unique challenges and necessitates adapted approaches to care. Aging adults who have experienced homelessness often face complex health issues, including chronic illnesses and geriatric conditions, significantly earlier than the general population. Additionally, older adults in supportive housing often face distinct mental health needs and potential accessibility barriers. The average life expectancy is notably lower, which further highlights the unique challenges that this group faces.

In response to these needs, this toolkit is designed to equip service and housing providers in New York with best practices solicited from providers across the state.

New York City is facing a homelessness crisis, with more than 140,000 people experiencing homelessness, including many in migrant shelters. Supportive housing is an evidence-based best practice that has been proven to reduce homelessness and interactions with crisis systems while helping individuals and communities to thrive.

This landscape assessment discusses challenges and gaps in addressing the needs of New Yorkers with high acuity health needs. It also presents recommendations for effective interventions and promising models.

To proactively think through realistic solutions in closing the gap in the supportive housing need for older adults in New Jersey, CSH developed an Advocacy Agenda in collaboration with stakeholders representing local and state, nonprofit and government perspectives.

The following four workgroups met throughout 2021 to brainstorm ideas to guide the state in the critical coordination, funding and policy changes needed to expand supportive housing for the ageing population. The influx of federal and state dollars, the unique Medicaid proposals for the state’s 1115 waiver, and Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) set new standards within the national conversation. This is the moment for New Jersey to think big on supporting aging residents who need a combination of affordable housing and services to stay in their community and age in place. This Advocacy Agenda is the road map to guide New Jersey in this effort.

Workgroups that developed the Advocacy Agenda

• Maintaining Capital Funding
• Expanding Service Dollars / Eligibility 
• Strengthening the Workforce 
• Addressing Not In My Backyard (NIMBYism)

The number of older adults in New Jersey is steadily growing, yet the demand for affordable, accessible housing and services far outpaces the supply. Our report, “Assessing New Jersey’s Need for Supportive Housing for an Aging Population,” examines how many additional units of supportive housing the state currently needs to meet the demand. It also highlights the demographics of those in need of supportive housing, and the specific needs of each population.