Legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Bruce Poliquin (R-ME) on Monday would establish a tax credit for home modifications that enable seniors to live more independently and age in place.
The Senior Accessible Housing Act, H.R. 5254, introduced by Poliquin and U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-FL), would establish a tax credit for such home renovations as entrance and exit ramps, non-slip flooring, and the installation of handrails.
“Seniors around the country deserve the option to age with dignity in their own homes, instead of depending on expensive and often times unattainable assisted living and nursing programs,” Poliquin said. “Seniors will be able to use this new tax credit to make the changes necessary for them to stay in their own homes. As a strong supporter of protecting and securing important benefits for our seniors, such as voting to reauthorize the Older Americans Act, I am proud to introduce this legislation.”
The bill is designed to allow seniors to age in their homes rather than transitioning into assisted living facilities that are more costly.
“With many older Americans living on limited incomes, home improvements to make their residences more accessible are often unaffordable,” Murphy said. “Making it easier for seniors to make these modifications means that they can stay in their homes longer without being forced to turn to assisted living facilities or nursing homes, which can often cost more. After a lifetime of hard work, our nation’s seniors deserve to age with dignity.”