Housing
Changing living arrangements—whether short-term or long-term—can be a major event in the life of an older person. Many times this change must be made on short notice in the midst of other difficult changes: decline in health, loss of a loved one, less energy, less money. There has been a dramatic increase in recent years in the number and variety of housing and in-home care options. This makes it more likely that older consumers can find housing that fits their particular needs. (See Housing and In-Home Services.) Sometimes a move is necessary; other times, the senior’s current home can be modified, or in-home services can be provided (or both), allowing the senior to stay put.
The National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB) Remodelors Council, Research Center, and Seniors Housing Council partnered with AARP to develop the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) program to address the needs of consumers who want to make their houses homes for a lifetime, regardless of the homeowner's age or functional abilities. Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists are contractors who have been trained to understand the unique needs of older people; to make modifications that can help people continue living independently in their homes longer; to be familiar with the most common remodeling projects; and to have solutions to common housing barriers. Call Senior Citizens Information & Referral Service, 546-6262, for a list of local contractors who have CAPS certification.
If a move to new housing is necessary, the first question is often cost and what an individual can afford, with the equally important issue of the kind and amount of services that are needed. When possible, it’s best to take enough time to think carefully and determine what services and issues are most important, balanced with the cost of each and the senior’s budget.
Some real estate professionals specialize in helping seniors find appropriate housing. Certified “seniors real estate specialists” receive training to help them counsel seniors who are fearful of changing their living arrangements, to work with other aging-network professionals, and to gain an understanding of tax laws, probate, and estate planning. A list of local seniors real estate specialists can be found at the association’s web site or can be obtained from Senior Citizens Information & Referral Service, 546-6262.
Sometimes a package of in-home services can be put together that allows an individual to stay at home. Depending on the kinds of services needed, this can be more or less expensive than an assisted living facility or a nursing home. The CAC Office on Aging or a private geriatric care manager can help an individual or caregiver be aware of available options (see Family Caregiver Support Program and Project LIVE.)
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