Relocating Seniors and Residents With Disabilities

Senior buildings and family sites with many older residents make up a large share of public housing. For these households a move can disrupt medical care, support networks and daily routines. Federal law requires accommodation, and good practice goes further.

Start with the needs survey

The household interview should capture more than unit size. Ask about:

• mobility, vision, hearing and cognitive needs;
• existing unit modifications and reasonable accommodations;
• medical equipment that needs power or special handling;
• home health aides, live-in aides and caregivers;
• medical providers, pharmacies and transportation the resident depends on;
• service or assistance animals.

Moving day support

Many seniors and residents with disabilities cannot pack or move on their own. Providing full-service packing, moving and unpacking may be required as a reasonable accommodation. Plan to set up beds, medical equipment and essentials on the same day, and reconnect phone and internet service so residents are not cut off.

The replacement unit

Temporary and permanent units must meet the household's accessibility needs. If the current unit has modifications, the new one needs comparable features, at the agency or owner's expense. Check grab bars, entrance access, door widths and bathroom layout before the move, not after.

Keep support networks intact

Where possible, relocate residents close to their doctors, pharmacies, family and friends. Moving neighbors together can preserve informal support. Coordinate with home health agencies and meal programs so services follow the resident to the new address.

Communication

Use large print, plain language and in-person explanations. Give residents more time to decide and to prepare. Involve family members or advocates when the resident wants them included.

HUD Handbook 1378, Exhibit 3-1, offers additional guidance on relocation assistance to persons with disabilities.