Keeping A Community Sustainable: Development of Affordable Housing for the Elderly in Nonmetropolitan Areas

Abstract

Affordable housing has been a critical issue in the face of global economy and notably formulated a crucial agenda of the housing policy. While each local government seriously considers many approaches to providing affordable housing, a unique and innovative way to address it at a community level is fully uncovered, particularly nonmetropolitan areas where resources for economic development are limited and vulnerable. The purpose of this study is to examine the mechanism of the provision of affordable housing for the elderly in nonmetropolitan areas. In doing so, this research investigates the housing development and delineates it as one viable solution that stimulates local communities. The affordable housing development, as a viable option to spur local development and vibrate community, is closely reviewed, and the factors to make it feasible are drawn. The findings indicate that it is widely recognized that keeping the elderly in the community positively contributes to maintaining a sustainable community. In fact, the idea of affordable housing development for middle-class elderly people is brought by one inspired long-time resident, and it is expedited by the consensus and cohesion of local community. The development stimulates local businesses in relation to housing, and all homes sold by the elderly moving in the new housing are available for young families. Also, the presence of affordable housing for the elderly who are able to independently live is extended to a picture of aging-in-place at a broader level.