Housing Assistance for Seniors in Ohio

Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel

In the state of Ohio, around 4.3 million residents are above 50 years equating to 37.3% which is above the average of the entire U.S. The state’s median age is 39.5 years which is slightly high than the overall U.S. median age of 38.5 years. Even with the state having the highest rates of the elderly and median age, the median age has risen at a slower rate between 2010-2018 at 1.50% ranked 40^th in the country in the same period the national average is 2.70%.

The Life expectancy of Ohio is 78 and it’s ranked 39^th nationally. The median Household income for seniors above 65 years is $40,297 ranked 35^th in the country which has an average of $43,735. The population of seniors above 55 years who are in the labor force is 31.7% ranked 31^st in the country.

Ohio is the most affordable state to retire because it boasts a housing index of 88.40. The average price of a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom apartment is $578 and $746 respectively, compared to the national average of $746 and $1027 respectively.

Housing Options

Independent Living Facilities offer seniors a chance to live independently in apartments or homes that are designed for their needs. These communities often have amenities such as on-site dining, transportation, and social activities. Cost for independent living facilities in Ohio range between $761 to $5,379 a month.

Assisted Living Facilities offer seniors more support than independent living communities. They typically have staff who can help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.  Assisted living facilities cost per month ranges between $1,385 to $9,780 according to location.

Memory Care Facilities are designed for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These communities have staff who are specially trained to care for people with memory loss. The average cost per year is $69,086.

Nursing Homes provide 24-hour care for seniors who need help with medical needs. These facilities often have nurses and other medical professionals on staff.  The cost for a semi-private and private room in a nursing home is around $6,798 and $7,604 a month respectively.

Respite Care helps in relieving the burden on caregivers who take care of seniors. The annual average cost is around $75,942.

The average cost for hospice care in Ohio is $5,000 per month. However, the actual cost will vary depending on the patient’s needs and the type of hospice care they receive.

Adult Daycare is available for seniors who need supervised facilities for an average cost of $1,224 a month.

In-Home Care: Seniors who stay in their own homes and need assistance can get home healthcare services at an average cost of $4,004 a month.

State Housing Assistance

Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) offers various programs and initiatives to assist with affordable housing in Ohio. They provide resources for homebuyers, renters, and developers, including down payment assistance, low-interest mortgage loans, and affordable rental options.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides federal funding to local governments and nonprofit organizations in Ohio to support a range of community development activities, including affordable housing initiatives. These funds can be used for housing rehabilitation, infrastructure improvements, and other community development projects.

Ohio Veterans Bonus Program provides financial assistance to honorably discharged veterans who served in the armed forces during specified periods of conflict. The program offers one-time bonuses to eligible veterans to support their housing needs and overall well-being.

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) Housing Initiatives offers housing assistance programs specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities in Ohio. These programs provide housing options, support services, and rental subsidies to help individuals live independently or in community-based settings.

Rental Assistance

Ohio Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, is administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in Ohio. It provides rental assistance vouchers to eligible low-income individuals and families, allowing them to find suitable housing in the private rental market.

Ohio Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is a federally funded program that provides rental and utility assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aims to prevent evictions and ensure housing stability for those affected by the economic impact of the pandemic.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to low-income households, including seniors, to help offset their home energy costs. This assistance can be used to pay heating and cooling bills, making it easier for seniors to maintain a comfortable living environment.

Ohio Development Services Agency’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) offers additional energy bill payment assistance for seniors and other low-income households in Ohio. This program helps eligible individuals and families manage their energy costs during the winter heating season.

Ohio Department of Aging offers various programs and services that can help seniors with housing-related needs. These include information and referral services, home repair and modification programs, and assistance with finding affordable housing options.

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) provides temporary financial assistance and supportive services to individuals and families who are at risk of becoming homeless or are currently homeless. The program aims to prevent homelessness or rapidly re-house those who are already homeless.

Home Repair and Improvement Grants

The Ohio Home Repair Program, administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency, offers grants to eligible low-income homeowners for home repairs. The program focuses on health and safety issues, such as addressing plumbing, electrical, heating, and structural problems.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Ohio provide resources and assistance to older adults, including home repair and modification programs. These programs aim to enhance home safety and accessibility for seniors. Contact your local AAA to learn about specific programs and grants available for home repairs.

Habitat for Humanity operates local chapters throughout Ohio and offers home repair programs for low-income homeowners. They provide critical repairs to ensure homes are safe, decent, and accessible. Reach out to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate to inquire about their repair programs.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides free home energy efficiency improvements to low-income households, including weatherization measures such as insulation, air sealing, and furnace repair or replacement. These upgrades can help reduce energy costs and improve the comfort of your home.

Low-Interest Loans for Housing

USDA Single Family Housing Direct Loan Program offers low-interest loans to eligible low-income seniors in rural areas through the Single-Family Housing Direct Loan Program. This program provides direct loans with favorable terms and may include financing for home repairs or modifications.

Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Program: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers reverse mortgages through the HECM program. Reverse mortgages allow eligible seniors aged 62 and older to convert a portion of their home equity into loan proceeds. These loans typically have lower interest rates and can be used to finance housing needs or supplement retirement income.

Home Improvement Loan Programs: Some cities, counties, and nonprofit organizations in Ohio offer low-interest home improvement loan programs for seniors. These programs provide affordable financing options for home repairs, accessibility modifications, or energy-efficient upgrades. Contact your local government or community development office to inquire about such programs available in your area.

Local Banks and Credit Unions: Many local banks and credit unions in Ohio offer special loan programs or products for seniors. These institutions may provide low-interest housing loans, home equity lines of credit, or personal loans specifically tailored to meet the needs of seniors. Contact local financial institutions to explore their loan options and interest rates.

Housing Assistance from Local Organizations and Charities

In Ohio, various local organizations and charities assist with housing-related needs. These organizations often offer resources, support, and services to help individuals and families find affordable housing, access rental assistance, or address housing issues. They Include:

• Salvation Army
• United Ways
• Local churches and Faith-based Organizations
• Community Action Agencies

Legal Assistance for Eviction

Legal Aid Societies: Ohio has several legal aid societies that provide free or low-cost legal services to low-income individuals who are facing eviction. These organizations have staff attorneys who can offer advice, representation, and assistance in eviction proceedings. Examples include the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland and the Legal Aid Society of Southwest Ohio.

Volunteer Lawyers Programs: Some areas in Ohio have volunteer lawyers programs that connect individuals facing eviction with pro bono attorneys who can provide legal representation or guidance. These programs are often coordinated through local bar associations or legal aid organizations. Contact your local bar association to inquire about the availability of volunteer lawyers programs in your area.

Tenant Advocacy Organizations: Tenant advocacy organizations in Ohio may offer legal assistance or referrals to individuals facing eviction. These organizations specialize in tenant rights and can guide navigating eviction proceedings, negotiating with landlords, or understanding local housing laws. Examples include the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO) and the Legal Aid Society of Columbus.

Court Self-Help Centers: Some courts in Ohio have self-help centers or resources available to individuals representing themselves in eviction cases. These centers provide information, forms, and guidance on navigating the legal process. Contact the local courthouse or visit their website to inquire about self-help resources specific to eviction cases.

Ohio Legal Services: Ohio Legal Services is an online resource that provides legal information and self-help materials on various legal issues, including eviction. They offer guidance on tenant rights, the eviction process, and possible defenses. Visit their website at www.ohiolegalhelp.org for more information.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retirement setting or specialized care, Ohio’s senior living options can provide comfort, security, and a fulfilling lifestyle in the company of peers. Embrace the opportunities that Ohio offers and embark on a new chapter of life in a senior living community tailored to your needs and desire.

Feel free to check the Aging Department | Official Website of the State of Ohio for up-to-date information on housing assistance programs.