Bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Bruce Poliquin (R-ME) would make home modifications more affordable and help seniors remain mobile in their own residences.
The Senior Accessible Housing Act, introduced by Poliquin and U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist (D-FL), would establish a tax credit for home modifications like exit ramps, handrails and non-slip flooring that make homes safer and more accessible for seniors.
“Many of our seniors in Maine live on a modest income, making expensive assisted living and nursing homes not a viable option as they age,” Poliquin said. “I am very pleased to join Congressman Crist in pushing forward this legislation to help give our seniors the choice to stay in their own homes in their retirement years.”
The measure would aim to make home renovations more affordable to seniors on fixed incomes to reduce long-term costs stemming from medical care and assisted living programs.
“The Senior Accessible Housing Act will provide needed tax credits for seniors to modify their homes and age in place,” Richard Fiesta, the executive director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, said. “This would greatly improve retirees’ ability to live independently and safely in the homes they’ve worked a lifetime for.”
Giving seniors an option to age in place, Crist added, is less costly and can improve their overall quality of life.
“Providing tax credits for home modifications is smart policy – it’s better for our seniors and better for our communities,” Crist said. “I’m thankful to have Congressman Poliquin’s support for this effort to extend the ‘Golden Rule’ to those in their golden years.”