The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), working in partnership with the Maryland Department of Aging, is embarking on a program that focuses on promoting accessibility related improvements that seniors can make to their homes in order to facilitate remaining in the home and maintaining independence.
The program makes accessibility improvements affordable by providing deferred loans at zero percent interest for a term of 30 years. The program is funded by DHCD under the Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Program, is administered by the Special Loans Program, and is marketed through the local Area Agencies on Aging. All closing costs are included in the loan.
There are income eligibility requirements and there is a list of eligible improvements. Some of those eligible improvements include:
- widening of doorways
- purchase and installation of exterior ramps
- purchase and installation of grab bars and lever handles
Additions to accommodate first floor bathrooms and laundry rooms are considered on a case-by-case basis.
For more details on the program you can:
- check out the DHCD webpage
- check out the Accessible Homes for Seniors webpage
- download the program application
You can also get an application at the local County Housing Offices or the Maryland Access Point Agencies. One of our board members was advised that there have been approvals for accessibility improvements of up to $50,000 and that the program is very well funded.
Additional information about making improvements to your home was covered in this presentation given last year at the aging in place forum.
Remember, when it comes to aging, it will happen whether you have a plan in place or not. Choose Planning.