Between 1996-1998 100,000 Section 8 subsidized housing units were lost resulting in the displacement of thousands vulnerable people nationally. This decrease in units is expected to continue. It is also estimated that 1.5 million people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in the US are aged 62 and above. The National Alliance of HUD (NAHT) is a grassroots nonprofit organization working with elders, the disabled and others to maintain their housing. By collaborating with other non-profit groups and creating linkages with government agencies NAHT is succeeding in preserving Section 8 housing. In addition to linkages with other groups, preserving housing is accomplished through organizing and educating tenant groups. The presentation will explore the repercussions of the decline in housing in health care delivery and services for the homeless. It will discuss realistic strategies for averting dislocation of elders, the disabled and other vulnerable populations.
During the session participants will discuss the reasons for the decline in subsidized housing. They will articulate methods to address this decline. Participants will also analyze the consequences on the health of elders and the disabled and on healthcare delivery. The will have the ability to apply this information to their work.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Identify an increasing source of homeless for elders and the disabled 2. Apply this knowledge in the prevention of homelessness 3. Assess the repercussions of increases in homeless elders and the disabled on healthcare delivery During this session, faculty will discuss the decline in federally subsidized housing for the elderly and disabled, describe the implications for services to the homeless and provide information on methods to address this decline
Keywords: Disability, Homelessness
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Alliance of HUD tenants is a nonproft organization serving tenants in subsidized housing across the nation. The cost of the majority of services are covered by grants. Tenant organizations pay minimal yearly dues
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.