"Family" Definitions & Shared Housing for Older Americans
by Patricia Pollak
Zoning code definitions of "family" can end up barring an important affordable housing option for members of the community, especially elder residents. Patricia Pollok discusses shared housing and explains why it should be permitted.
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Read first few paragraphs of article:
Low-density residential zoning has supported the "American
dream" of each family having its own home. It sets aside parcels
of land, safe from industrial or commercial competition, so that
families can afford to build those homes. In so doing, however,
many zoning ordinances contain a definition of what is
considered the typical "family." These "family" definitions,
often written fifteen or twenty years ago, can have major
impacts on housing options. One unfortunate result -- which this
article will focus on -- is that "shared" housing for older
residents is frequently precluded.
Not long ago it was fairly common for older people to live
together with their adult children and their grandchildren in
extended families. As a result of a number of factors, the
extended family living arrangement is no longer common. We now
have relatively smaller single family homes, a far more mobile
labor force, and increased financial independence for our elders
in part due to Social Security and private pension plans. ...
Although senior citizen housing and retirement communities have
been successful and popular, they simply are not available for
many older Americans. ...
Shared housing is one of a number of innovative uses communities
across the country are considering to make efficient use of the
existing housing stock. A shared home can be either a "match-up"
arrangement or a "shared residence." Along with accessory
apartments and elder cottages, the primary impetus for
considering these options comes from the increasing need for
community-based housing for older residents.
...