Across the country, many older adults face challenges that make it harder to stay connected to health care. Nationally, about 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older report feeling socially isolated, a factor strongly linked to delayed care and poorer health outcomes.1 For seniors in public housing, barriers such as limited transportation, housing insecurity and difficulty navigating complex systems only deepen the challenge.2 In Washington, D.C., where 17.7% of residents over 65 live in poverty compared to 11.3% nationally, these barriers are especially pronounced.3
UnitedHealthcare District Dual Choice Plan is addressing these challenges through a new collaboration with Ounce of Care, a resident services platform designed for affordable housing communities. Together, they are co-hosting a series of community-centered events aimed at re-engaging older adults in their health care, connecting them to vital resources and improving long-term health and housing stability.
Bringing care and resources directly to residents
The collaboration features 18 onsite events across public housing communities in Washington, D.C. Developed around resident input, the events focus on connecting seniors to preventive care, social supports and community-based resources in familiar, trusted settings. By hosting activities where people already live, the initiative helps reduce transportation barriers, lessen stigma and increase participation.
Leveraging community trust for stronger engagement
Ounce of Care serves as a bridge between residents and the health care system, leveraging long-standing relationships to build comfort and trust. Their presence helps residents feel at ease while learning about benefits, meeting with care coordinators and engaging in services that may have otherwise felt out of reach. For many, these touchpoints are the first step toward engaging with their care.
Supporting whole-person health
The events extend beyond traditional health care, reflecting UnitedHealthcare’s whole-person approach. Residents can receive health screenings, connect to behavioral health and social services and find opportunities for social connection. This integrated model aims to strengthen both health and stability by:
- Helping residents better manage chronic conditions
- Reducing avoidable emergency department visits
- Improving medication adherence and mental well-being
- Enhancing family and peer support systems
Strengthening community health from the ground up
By investing in Ounce of Care’s resident-centered model, UnitedHealthcare District Dual Choice Plan is creating meaningful opportunities for seniors in public housing to connect with care, resources and the community. The initiative demonstrates how place-based strategies can close access gaps, improve outcomes and support aging populations in living healthier, more independent lives.
This work reflects a broader strategy to improve outcomes through health improvements, culturally competent engagement and enrollee-centered design, ensuring every person, regardless of age or zip code, has access to the supports needed to live healthier lives.
Learn more about the trends shaping America’s aging population by watching our overview video.
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Sources
- Social Isolation and Loneliness Outreach Toolkit (2025, March 5). National Institute on Aging.
- Oberlink, M. (2017, June 30). A Community-Based Initiative to Identify and Address Barriers in Older Adults’ Access to Services. National Library of Medicine.
- Poverty - Age 65+ in District of Columbia (2025). America's Health Rankings.
