June 2008                                                                                            Newsletter-p.3

...From Leigh

   

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS   Independent living

By Virginia McDaniel, M.S.

 

The term independent living is used to describe a housing option where the older person is basically self sufficient. An individual can remain self sufficient for a longer period of time because of the support services offered in many retirement communities.  The preferred term for independent living is senior living or senior housing.  The types and numbers of services included for independent residents in retirement communities vary.  Common services offered include dining, housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and social activities. Some communities have staff on the property 24 hours that respond to emergency call signals. Support services included in the monthly fee in independent living are non-medical in nature. By residing in a senior community, the individual has a sense of security, supportive peers, a quiet atmosphere, and many opportunities for social interaction.

 

There are many good reasons to move from a private home to a senior living community.

Maintenance free living: Residents can be more at ease knowing that routine maintenance and lawn care are provided. 

 

Transportation:  Transportation is a key service in retirement communities.  Most communities offer many different time slots for getting to doctor appointments, going grocery shopping, and for recreational trips.  Many residents still drive, but may prefer going with a group on social outings. Retirement community living allows one to have many choices, thus maintaining their independence.

 

Dining:  Three nutritious meals a day are served in most retirement communities. Nutrition has a major role in maintaining good health.  Dining with others provides opportunities for socialization.  Some communities require the purchase of all meals by including them in the monthly charge; others, give the option for residents to choose how many meals, if any, they wish to purchase.  Apartments are usually equipped with full kitchens for those who want to cook.

 

Life Enrichment:  Senior living communities offer many opportunities for socialization and lifelong learning to keep residents active and mentally alert.  Wellness programs that provide exercise classes, nutrition information, various health screenings, and information and referral contribute to the health and well-being of residents.

 

Fair Housing and Americans with Disabilities Laws:  It has been stated that independent living is for persons that are self sufficient; however, that independence can be maintained by using any type of assistive device such as a walker or a wheelchair.  Also reasonable accommodations can be requested.  The resident must have the ability to maintain both his person and unit in a manner which is not dangerous or detrimental to their own safety or the safety of others. In order to be safe in an independent apartment, a person may have to hire caregivers or other support services not normally included in independent living. Communities may service 62 or older only or some may serve the 55 plus category.  There are Fair Housing guidelines that must be strictly followed in the age categories. 

 

Costs for senior living:  There is a wide range of choice in design and type of community.  Costs vary depending on size of the residence, what services are included, and even location.  Generally, the cost of senior housing may parallel the cost of other housing in the local area.  Continuing Care communities often charge large up-front fees in order to move in.  A portion of those fees may be refundable. This type of community offers independent living, as well as assisted living, and nursing care (and other options) all on one campus.  The benefit is a smooth transition from one level to the next as one’s needs increase.  Others have a choice of entry fee plans or market rental. Life Care communities may charge very high up front fees and include some of the costs of future nursing care.  Consumers should research in depth the communities they are interested in before making any financial commitment. The resident pays privately for most independent living.  However, there is low-cost subsidized senior housing.  Denton is fortunate to have several nice properties that have been financed by HUD.  Planning ahead to move into a subsidized apartment would be very important because there may be a long waiting list.  A newer type of housing that offers below market rate units, are called tax credit properties.  The builder has received a tax credit when building the complex and in return will offer some or all of the apartments at a lower rate to persons that qualify financially.  The consumer should keep in mind that Medicaid or Medicare will not be paying any of the cost of independent living.  The reader may call the Denton Housing Authority office to find out more information on subsidized housing at 940-383-1504.

 

This article is intended as an overview, not a complete list of the housing options available to senior adults.

Useful web sites

www.aarp.org  Search the topic of housing under learning and technology

www.elderoptionsoftexas.com

www.dentoncountyseniorservices.org

www.Helpguide.org