Aging with Dignity: Housing Choices for Delaware’s Older Population

Across the U.S., housing shortages are impacting millions of Americans. From coast to coast, residents are facing high interest rates and low housing supply – making it nearly impossible to find affordable housing. Delaware is no exception. Residents of the First State are facing a staggering 19,000-unit affordable housing shortage with no end in sight.

From existing homeowners to first-time buyers, the lack of economical housing can be felt by all. However, older Delawareans experience the challenge in unique ways. According to AARP research, older residents overwhelmingly want to live independently as they age – in their homes and communities. They want to remain in the place where they have established roots, raised families and contributed to the local economy.

But as their needs change, staying in the family home may not be ideal. It may be too big or require too much upkeep and maintenance. However, without reasonable housing choices, too many older Delawareans are forced to stay where they are, becoming house rich and cash poor. This could even force some into more costly and less desirable nursing home care.

As the older adult population rapidly increases, the need for more economical and accessible housing choices will soar. According to the U.S. Census, about 267,000 Delawareans are over the age of 65. That’s about 21% of the state’s population.

That’s why AARP Delaware supported Senate Bill 87, which will add housing choices by empowering homeowners to create an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on their property.

An ADU is a small, cottage-like structure or addition to the existing home, providing flexible living arrangements for families in many ways, including:

1. Older homeowners can create an ADU on their property to move into and rent the larger house – or the opposite. They can also offer the ADU or larger house to children or
grandchildren so the family can live together, but with their own, separate spaces.

 2. Family caregivers can offer mom, dad or other loved ones a place to call their own
where they can maintain their independence while also receiving any help they may
need such as transportation, meal preparation or medication management.

 3. Older residents can rent an ADU from another homeowner so they can stay in the
community they know.

 Bottom line: ADUs help families save time and money. They help older Delawareans stay in their homes and communities where they want to be. And they help family caregivers manage the big responsibilities that come with assisting older parents, spouses and other loved ones.

 Our current housing framework must be updated to serve Delaware families today and in the future. Providing single-lot homeowners across the state with the opportunity to create an ADU on their property is a step in the right direction to increase affordable housing options and availability.

 

On behalf of more than 192,000 AARP members statewide, AARP Delaware thanks lawmakers for passing SB 87 and begin creating housing choices for older Delawareans and their families. We look forward to Governor Meyer signing the bill into law.