How to Get Assisted Housing for Adults With Cerebral Palsy

Adults with cerebral palsy have several housing options when it comes to supported-living. Depending on the type of care desired, residents can get as much or as little assistance as they wish in a variety of settings, from shared rooms in monitored facilities to individual apartments.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Know the Assisted Housing Options for Adults With Cerebral Palsy

1. Choose the type of assisted housing that's appropriate for your needs. Options range from board and care homes and nursing facilities with 24-hour supervision meals and medical supervision to individual apartments in assisted communities, which promote independent living.
2. Know that adult housing facilities generally provide service to people who are between the ages of 18 and 59. People who are over 60 and adults who are between the ages of 18 and 59, but require medical care, may reside in continuing care retirement facilities.
3. Realize transitional homes may be available for people who are at least 17 and are preparing to live independently for the first time.

Get Assisted Housing for Adults With Cerebral Palsy

4. Find housing resources by state at DisabilityInfo.gov (see Resources below).
5. Make a list of housing options, including residential care facilities.
6. Visit the facilities. Be prepared to answer questions about your medical condition and the type of care you require.
7. Ask questions about the type of care they provide. Include questions about meals, laundry, transportation, medical assistance, physical therapy facilities and social activities.
8. Write down everything you like and dislike about the facility based on your initial interview.
9. Make a second, unannounced visit to get a better sense of how the facility operates.
10. Take time to speak with other residents about their experience with the facility.

Pay for Assisted Housing

11. Use Social Security income or Supplemental Security Income to pay rent and expenses. Visit the Social Security website to learn more about qualifying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) (see Resources below).
12. Apply for Section 8 housing vouchers distributed through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
13. Realize qualified renters pay only a percentage of the rent, which is based on their income and ability to pay.

Tips & Warnings

• Obtain Independent Living Skills Training through local chapters of the United Cerebral Palsy organization. Visit UCP.org to find your local chapter (see Resources below).
• Be prepared for long waiting lists for HUD housing vouchers.