Within the definition of “project” in Section 17 and the powers granted to Housing Authorities by this Act and “An Act to facilitate the development and construction of housing, to provide governmental assistance therefor, and to repeal an Act herein named,” approved July 2, 1947, as amended, Housing Authorities may enter into agreements or otherwise cooperate with any authorized agency of the federal government in aid of the development of housing for aged persons in need of and unable to secure decent, safe and sanitary housing and who qualify by federal law and regulations for low rent or other housing facilities, the construction or financing of which is to be assisted in whole or in part by federal funds.
     The Department may undertake studies to determine the desirability of extending by legislation the powers of Housing Authorities to assist private construction and development of nursing and convalescent homes for aged or other persons in need of medical or nursing services or care.