What is considered elderly in CT? A guide to Connecticut's age definitions

In Connecticut, the legal definition of an “elderly person” is a resident aged 60 or older, particularly concerning protective services, as specified in the Connecticut General Statutes. However, this single definition doesn't apply to all programs and benefits, which may use varying age thresholds to determine eligibility. Navigating these different criteria is crucial for accessing the right resources.

Quick Summary

The official legal definition for 'elderly' in Connecticut is 60 or older for the purpose of protective services, but other state and federal programs have different age requirements, such as 62 for certain housing or 65 for specific health benefits like HUSKY C.

Key Points

• Protective Services Age: In Connecticut, an “elderly person” is legally defined as a resident 60 years or older for protective services.

• Housing Age Varies: Certain state-assisted senior housing and tenant protections often begin at age 62.

• Medicare & Medicaid Aligned: State health programs like HUSKY C and federal benefits like SSI typically define eligibility starting at age 65.

• Broader Employment Protection: Connecticut's age discrimination law (CFEPA) is broader than federal law, protecting a wider range of workers, not just those over 40.

• No Single Definition: The definition of “elderly” is not uniform; it varies by context, statute, and the specific program being applied for.

• Seek Specific Program Details: It is necessary to check the specific age requirements for each individual benefit or service to confirm eligibility.

Varying Definitions of “Elderly” in Connecticut

The term “elderly” does not carry a single, universal definition across all laws and programs in Connecticut. Instead, the age at which a person is considered elderly depends heavily on the specific context, including protective services, housing, and health care benefits. Understanding these distinctions is the first step toward accessing the right support and resources available to older residents of the state.

The Legal Threshold for Protective Services

For matters of state protective services, Connecticut has a clear and defined age. The Connecticut General Statutes, specifically Section 17b-450, state that the term “elderly person” refers to “any resident of Connecticut who is sixty years of age or older”. This definition is critical in cases involving potential abuse, neglect, exploitation, or abandonment, as it empowers the Department of Social Services to intervene and provide necessary support.

Protective services are designed to protect older adults who may be unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental health issues. A person can be deemed “in need of protective services” if they are unable to perform or obtain services necessary to maintain their health and well-being.

Age Requirements for State and Federal Benefits

Beyond protective services, several state and federal benefit programs have their own age qualifications. These different age requirements mean a person may be eligible for one type of assistance but not another. It's important to know the specific criteria for each program you are interested in.

• Husky C Medicaid Program: This program provides health coverage for eligible adults who are aged 65 or older, disabled, or blind. The age threshold is firmly set at 65 for non-disabled applicants.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): The federal SSI program, which provides a minimum income for people with disabilities and those over 65, uses the definition of “aged” as being 65 or older. This is a federal program, so the definition is consistent across the country.
• State Supplement Program (SSP): Connecticut’s SSP provides cash assistance to people who are 65 and older, blind, or have a permanent disability. While it complements SSI, its age criteria are aligned with the federal standard.

Age Qualifications for Housing Assistance

When it comes to housing, Connecticut has different rules, especially concerning subsidized and senior housing projects. The age limit for these programs is typically set slightly higher than the protective services definition.

• Senior Housing Projects: For state-assisted elderly housing, Connecticut law often uses an age of 62 or older for eligibility. These projects are restricted to seniors and disabled individuals.
• Protected Tenant Status: Landlord-tenant laws may also offer special protections based on age. In some residential buildings, tenants who are 62 or older gain certain protections against evictions and rent increases.

Age and Employment Discrimination Law

Another significant area where age is legally defined is in the workplace. Both state and federal laws prohibit discrimination based on age.

• Federal Law (ADEA): The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from employment discrimination based on age.
• Connecticut Law (CFEPA): The Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA) also prohibits age discrimination but is broader than the federal law. CFEPA applies to employers with three or more employees and is not limited to those 40 or older, offering protections to a wider range of workers.

A Comparison of Age Thresholds

To make it easier to understand, here is a comparison table outlining different age definitions in Connecticut.

Program / Legal Context	Age Requirement	Reference	Notes
Protective Services	60 years or older	CT Gen. Stat. § 17b-450	For cases of potential abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Husky C (Medicaid)	65 years or older	CT.gov DSS	For non-disabled applicants.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)	65 years or older	SSA.gov	Federal program with a consistent definition.
State-Assisted Senior Housing	62 years or older	CTLawHelp.org	Often includes disabled individuals as well.
State Employment Discrimination	No specific age limit; covers all ages	CGA.ct.gov	Generally broader than federal law; protects those 40+ under federal rules.

Navigating Resources for Connecticut's Aging Population

Given the different age requirements for various programs, it's beneficial for Connecticut residents to seek guidance from local and state organizations. Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) are excellent resources for information, advocacy, and services. The Connecticut State Plan on Aging provides a comprehensive overview of the state's efforts to support its older residents, including demographic information and strategic goals.

To access benefits and services, individuals or their caregivers can:

1. Contact an Area Agency on Aging: Regional agencies, like the North Central Area Agency on Aging or the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut, are hubs for information and assistance. They can help determine eligibility for a wide range of programs.
2. Consult the Department of Social Services (DSS): The DSS manages programs like HUSKY C and Protective Services for the Elderly. Their website or a phone call can provide specific eligibility criteria and application processes.
3. Review the Connecticut General Statutes: For precise legal definitions, the statutes are the ultimate source, particularly for protective services cases. This is especially important for legal professionals or for citizens seeking definitive information.
4. Reach Out to Legal Aid: Organizations specializing in elder law, such as those that contribute to CTLawHelp.org, can offer assistance with housing issues, benefits claims, and other legal matters affecting older adults.

Conclusion: No Single Answer

In summary, the answer to the question “what is considered elderly in CT?” is not a single number. While 60 is the legal threshold for protective services, other key programs and protections use 62 or 65. This tiered approach is designed to match services and benefits to the specific needs of different age groups within the older adult population. By understanding these nuances, Connecticut residents can better navigate the system and ensure they receive the support they need to age healthily and with dignity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official legal age of an elderly person in Connecticut?

The official legal definition for protective services in Connecticut is 60 years of age or older, as defined in Connecticut General Statutes Section 17b-450.

Does being 60 years old in CT qualify me for all senior benefits?

No, not necessarily. While 60 is the threshold for state protective services, other programs have different age requirements. For example, some housing programs start at 62, and federal benefits like SSI and state health programs like HUSKY C typically start at 65.

At what age can I get subsidized senior housing in Connecticut?

Eligibility for state-assisted senior housing in Connecticut is often for residents who are 62 years of age or older, though this can vary by program.

What is the age for HUSKY C coverage in Connecticut?

HUSKY C, a Medicaid program, is available to eligible Connecticut residents who are 65 years or older, blind, or have another disability.

What is the difference between federal and state age discrimination laws in Connecticut?

The federal ADEA protects workers 40 and older, but Connecticut's CFEPA is broader, applying to employers with three or more employees and not having a specific age limit. This means Connecticut protects a wider range of workers from age discrimination.

Where can I get information about services for older adults in Connecticut?

Your best resource is an Area Agency on Aging. These regional non-profit organizations are equipped to provide information, advocacy, and services to older adults and their caregivers.

Are there special tenant protections for older adults in Connecticut?

Yes. Tenants aged 62 or older in buildings with five or more units and other residential settings receive additional protections against evictions and rent increases under state law.