HUD Announces Collaboration with Japan for Aging-in-Place Research

HUD and Japan have formally agreed to work cooperatively on researching innovated approaches to housing both nations’ vulnerable senior population. “Our nations have much to learn from each other, and we recognize that our strength is measured by our regard, respect, and care of the elderly,” said HUD Secretary Carson. “Working together, the U.S. and Japan will combine our strengths to find new and innovative approaches to housing our older citizens.”

Specific areas of research include discovering innovative approaches to financing aging in place; identifying the connections between health and housing; seeking effective public-private partnerships; focusing on healthy and accessible communities; and developing viable policies in a constrained budget environment.

Although Japan’s approach has relied more on government entities to deliver services and resources, the United States relies heavily on the private and nonprofit sectors, as well as volunteers, to support older adults. By gaining a greater understanding of each country’s approach to this challenge, both the United States and Japan hope to take advantage of new ideas, innovative strategies, and evidence-based policies, allowing each country to better support and finance the needs of their populations as they age.