How Does that Apply to Us? FHA, ADA and Senior Living Providers

In this session, we will explore the ramifications and impact that the Fair Housing Act/Fair Housing Amendments Act (referred to collectively as FHA), and American with Disabilities Act (ADA) have on various senior living providers: those who serve older adults through lines of services such as Nursing Homes/Long Term Care, Sub-Acute Rehab/Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Personal Care Homes, Independent and congregate living for seniors, and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)/Life Plan Communities. The significant risks associated with FHA and ADA can often catch organizations off guard, as they may not consider themselves “housing providers” since they are often delivering much more than just housing; however, for purposes of the FHA and certain parts of the ADA, that’s exactly what they are. Providers are often unaware of the impact of these laws, and the lack of understanding can causing both monetary and reputational damage. The FHA and ADA touch upon numerous areas including advertising and marketing, admissions, movement through the continuum of care, use of scooters and other assistive devices, assistance animals, private duty aides, construction, design and renovation, and interpreter services. Learn about what is required by the laws, the various Protected Classes they cover, what providers can require of residents, and how to mitigate risk by undertaking steps that can help you avoid getting into hot water with prospective applicants, your residents and their families, fair housing and other advocacy groups, and the government.

Learning Obectives:

• Understand what type of housing and entities FHA and ADA cover, and what is then required by covered entities under both FHA and ADA
• Recognize those who are considered as part of a Protected Class and what both Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications are, with examples
• Comprehend the Essential Requirements of Tenancy and the limits on Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications
• Learn simple ways to mitigate risk by implementing appropriate policies and rules around common Reasonable Accommodations