How to Find Housing Options for Seniors
Senior citizens have different housing needs because of age and decreased incomes. Housing options for seniors vary by location throughout the country. One of the primary considerations for many seniors is affordable housing. Senior housing options should also provide security. Seniors often need assistance to remain independent in their homes or in alternate housing.
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Instructions
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Visit the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) website to assess the current housing needs of the senior citizen. Here you will find a list of questions designed to help you begin to determine how to help a senior citizen remain independent or to prepare for a transition to alternate housing facilities.
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Visit the Health and Human Services website, a federal agency, to find contacts and resources for senior housing by state and by locale.
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Contact your county Human Resources Department or Commission on Aging to get information about "Aging in Place" supportive services that may be available in your area. Many communities have senior companion services, home-sharing programs and "Safe at Home" modifications.
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Look into the cost of senior accessory dwelling units, sometimes called co-housing units. As an alternative to moving in with relatives, these temporary senior residences offer some supervision and support, without depriving the senior citizen of privacy and independence. Many municipalities have relaxed zoning laws to allow temporary construction of small residences and apartments in areas normally zoned for single-family occupancy.
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Investigate Medicare eligible senior communities and assisted living facilities in your area before the need arises. Get information about costs, services, ratings and records by state at the Medicare website. "Continuum of Care" facilities make transitions much less traumatic when a senior citizen's abilities decline.
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Contact in home care provider agencies through your local office on aging. Many communities that encourage "Aging in Place" for seniors have compiled resources to help seniors remain in their homes. The home care agencies offer services from transportation for medical appointments and religious services to "Meals on Wheels" and low-cost home modifications.
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Tips & Warnings
Start considering senior housing options as early as possible. A fall or debilitating illness can make finding alternate housing arrangements urgent. It can be difficult to consider the available options carefully while dealing with an emergency.
