Why Accessible Housing?

There is a significant need for accessible housing...

%

of Americans have a physical disability.

%

of seniors have a physical
disability.

%

of seniors plan on aging in their homes.

...but, there isn't enough accessible housing to meet this need.

%
amount of public housing stock that is accessible

In Cuyahoga County there are 195,000 people with a disability,
which is roughly 1 in 6 people or 16.02% of the population.

How accessible is the housing stock in Cuyahoga County? 

%
amount of public housing stock that is not accessible or modifiable
  • Level 1: Potentially modifiable (33.3%)
  • Level 2: Livable for person with moderate mobility disabilities (3.8%)
  • Level 3: Fully wheelchair accessible (0.15%)

Cuyahoga County only has about 26,000 fully or partially accessible housing units, leaving the county with a huge gap.

What does the lack of accessible housing mean for Cuyahoga County?

People with disabilities and older adults living in inappropriate housing face increased risk of falls and other accidents, leading to physical injuries and mental health issues.

The lack of more suitable features in their homes exacerbates this risk, accelerates health decline, and increases the need for caregiving support.

“The minimum number of accessible units required under Section 504 appears to be significantly smaller than the need.”

–The State of Housing in America in the 21st Century: A Disability Perspective by the National Council on Disability

Dark blue background. Quote: When you have accessible housing, you have a sense of community. No one looks at you like they don’t understand what you’re going through. Everyone has a similar lived experience and understanding. Cythnia.
Green background. Quote: Accessible housing] can give you independence. It makes you feel like an adult, like you have your own and can help you to grow in so many ways. I was able to take my past life lessons and was able to grow into them by gaining my independence. Allan.
Blue background. Quote: I love my independence. It’s so important to stay independent and not lose yourself, being able to do what you want, when you want, and on your own. Mila.
Soft green background. Quote: We need to recognize that people with physical limitations need a place to live; [everyone] needs a sense of freedom and belonging. Anna.

MaxHousing addresses this need by building affordable, accessible apartment communities and providing accessible housing information in the Greater Cleveland area.

Vistas Apartment Communities