The NH Alliance for Healthy Aging (NHAHA) works to identify and advocate for needed zoning changes in order to promote affordable, accessible housing options. The workgroup promotes collaboration and policy change that expands access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing.
Zoning and Housing for All Ages
Most older adults prefer to age in place, but many face significant challenges in doing so. Approximately 47% of New Hampshire households include someone who is 60 or older, according to the Census Bureau, yet a limited supply of affordable, diverse housing makes it difficult for older adults and individuals with disabilities to find homes that meet their needs.
Housing and zoning together shape the options available to residents. Housing availability determines what people can afford and access, while zoning policies guide where homes, businesses, parks, and community spaces can be located. When aligned, they can support communities that meet the needs of residents of all ages.
NHAHA Housing and Zoning Priorities
Strategy 1: Increase housing diversity in New Hampshire.
The workgroup aims to bolster the increase of housing diversity in New Hampshire by sharing and highlighting innovative housing models and solutions across the state.
Strategy in Action: In collaboration with Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission, the workgroup created and distributed a survey to builders and developers to better understand the landscape of current housing stock, types of housing that should be built, and the barriers to building more diverse housing in New Hampshire.
Strategy 2: Create model ordinance for age-friendly communities.
The workgroup supports the expansion and development of age-friendly communities in NH.
Strategy in Action: Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission and the town of Chester drafted NH’s first age-friendly zoning ordinance, passed in 2019. The workgroup provided input on this ordinance and supports expansion and development of age-friendly ordinances across the state.
Upcoming Events
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Measurement Committee
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Transportation Workgroup
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NH State Commission on Aging Monthly Meeting
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AHA Moments – April 28, 2026
April 28, 2026
Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.…
LEARN MOREAHA Moments – April 21, 2026
April 21, 2026
Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.…
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