No matter where you live, there truly is no place like home. But as people age, they may have to re-evaluate their housing situation vs. changing needs.

As Americans live longer, more of them face the reality of living in a home that is not designed to meet their needs. The house and yard demand maintenance, declining health and strength make living alone difficult, and finances are strained.

Yet 95% of Americans over 75 want to stay in their present homes because they represent security and independence. For seniors who can still drive, shop, cook and do household chores, staying in their home is a blessing, but most older adults will need to consider other options as abilities decline.

There are many housing possibilities for elders and terminology can be confusing, but it breaks down into three basic categories: Independent Retirement Housing (for active seniors; housing, meals, activities, housekeeping and maintenance may be provided), Assisted Living housing, assistance with personal care and medication provided), and Nursing Care (for ill seniors or those requiring long term health care).

Following is a list of the most common living arrangements that can meet the needs of your aging parents, yourself or a loved one.

1. Congregate Housing (also called clustered housing or sheltered housing). Similar to living independently, this option is good for adults who live safely on their own. Residents have a private unit in a setting specially adapted to senior abilities. The advantages are security and built in social contacts. Because medical services aren't provided, housing isn't covered by Medicare. In our area, we have primarily subsidized elderly apartments where people can hire privately for additional services, such as meals, laundry, cleaning and personal care.
2. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC). Residents begin by living independently in their own apartment. They later move into an assisted living complex on the same grounds. Many of these communities also have a nursing home for the next level of care. A CCRC is costly, with a large entrance fee and high monthly rates.
3. Assisted Living. Beyond housing, these facilities provide personal care assistance, housekeeping, some transportation and social activities, and often the option of group meals. Costs can run $3,000.00 per month.
4. Residential Care (also called board and care homes or personal care homes). On a smaller scale than assisted living for six or more residents, they provide a room in a home-like setting, meals, and help with daily activities. They are not medical facilities but have nursing oversight.
5. Adult Foster Care. An older person can live in a home setting with a family that provides services such as cooking, laundry and transportation. The family offers emotional support, companionship and housing. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be used to cover costs, which vary widely.
6. Nursing Homes. For those who require 24-hour skilled nursing care and can no longer perform activities of daily living on their own. Medical services, personal care and meals are provided. Bedrooms and bathrooms are shared. Costs can average $56,000.00 a year.
7. Other. Home and Community Based Waiver Program can provide extensive personal care services in a home setting for elders and younger disabled persons who would otherwise need to be in a nursing home. However, it is not a 24 hour per day service, and you must qualify for long-term Medicaid and meet a nursing home level of care to recieve services.

As baby boomers and their parents age, housing concerns will grow larger. For those who opt to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, in-home care by a paid caregiver can provide help, meals and companionship. Assistive devices such as improved lighting, handrails, bathroom grab bars and portable wheelchair ramps can extend a house's accessibility and satisfy that strong desire to live at home. As with most big life decisions, it is never to early to investigate the options. And the good news is that the "graying of America" ensures that the possibilities will continue to expand in your favor.

RESOURCES
The Council on Aging's Senior Help Line: 1-800-642-5119
www.coasevt.org/services_housing.html

Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116 or online at
http://www.eldercare.gov/).
This U.S. government service provides referrals and advice on senior housing.

American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA).
901 E Street, NW, Suite 500, Washing, D.C. 20004
A source of consumer information, tips and lists of housing facilities and communities (online at www.aahsa.org/public/consumer.htm)

 

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