Dallas Hosts Summit to Tackle Aging and Housing Needs
In an effort to address the growing needs of its aging population, Dallas recently hosted the 2026 Aging & Housing Summit. The event, held on October 8 at Dallas College West Dallas Center, was organized by the City of Dallas Office of Housing and Community Empowerment, in collaboration with Dallas College, AARP, and the Dallas County Aging and Disability Resource Center. District 5 Councilmember Laura Cadena opened the summit, reaffirming the city’s commitment to being an age-friendly community. She stated, “The City of Dallas is an age-friendly city. This means Dallas is not simply a place where older adults can live and grow older, but a community committed to helping people live well, live safely, and make choices about how and where they want to live.”
The free community event attracted nearly 80 participants, along with 25 partners who provided valuable information and resources. The summit aimed to assist older adults and caregivers in understanding housing options, safeguarding their homes, and accessing resources to maintain independence.
Highlighting Housing Accessibility and Independence
Keynote speakers included District 12 Senior Affairs Commissioner Rob Friedman and John Kalkanli, Chair of the Commission on Disabilities. They underscored the necessity of accessible and affordable housing in enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Commissioner Friedman emphasized the increasing demand for essential services such as housing, transportation, and healthcare, highlighting the need for solutions that promote stability and independence. Chair Kalkanli stressed that housing symbolizes autonomy and dignity, advocating for planning ahead to ensure safety and independence as individuals’ needs evolve.
Introducing Dallas Is Home Framework
The summit unveiled the City of Dallas’ new housing policy framework, Dallas Is Home. James Armstrong III and Jasmin Bazley from the Office of Housing and Community Empowerment presented the framework, focusing on expanding affordable housing, preserving existing homes, and enhancing access to resources. These priorities are vital for seniors who face rising housing costs and require safe, accessible, long-term housing.
Educational Resources and Community Support
Community partners offered practical advice and resources to help attendees make informed housing decisions. Dr. Agapito Flores and Erica Lopez from Dallas College highlighted lifelong learning opportunities and community engagement. Additionally, presentations on homeownership protection and safety were provided. Phillip Clark from the Dallas County Criminal District Attorney’s Office addressed deed fraud prevention, while Patricia Nixon from the Dallas County Appraisal District explained property tax systems and exemptions.
A home safety workshop led by Officer Marlenne Aleman and David Burke of the American Red Cross concluded the summit, providing guidance on creating safer living environments.
Connecting Residents with Resources
The event connected attendees with valuable resources and united city departments and organizations to enhance access to safe, affordable housing, supporting Dallas as an age-friendly city. The City of Dallas Office of Housing and Community Empowerment provides numerous services to support aging residents, including:
Age-Friendly Senior Services
Explore resources for residents aged 60 and older through the Office of Housing and Community Empowerment – Senior Services.
Housing Rights and Discrimination Concerns
The Fair Housing Division offers assistance with discrimination concerns. Call 214-670-3247 or email [email protected] for inquiries or to file a complaint. Learn more here.
Long-Term Care Support
The Senior Source’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for nursing home and assisted living residents. Call 214-525-6114 or visit Senior Source Ombudsman Services for more information.
Age-Friendly Housing Resource Guide
Find senior housing resources in Dallas here.
Community Services Hub
Access local resources and services through the Community Services Hub.
Non-Discrimination Program
For information on non-discrimination policies, email [email protected] or call 311. Learn more here.
Senior Affairs Commission
Residents can participate in shaping city initiatives by attending Senior Affairs Commission meetings. View meeting details here.
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