With a name like Moms Meals it has to be good, right? In this article, we aimed to provide you with the best resources available when it comes to professional, comprehensive, senior-oriented organizations. Take a look at how accessible the retirement facility is, both inside and outside. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is under the National Institute on Health and is actively dedicated to conducting research on aging as well as the health and well-being of older individuals. Remember that youre not alone in this. Rent may include community services such as recreational programs, transportation services, and meals served in a communal dining room. If your home is difficult to access, such as on a steep hill or up several flights of stairs, it may be harder for you to leave your home as often youd like, leading to more isolation. As with any change in living situation, its important to plan ahead and give yourself time and space to cope with change. The Independent Living Program was authorized by the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 (Public Law 106-169). Fact: Independent living facilities usually have 24-hour staff who can quickly and easily provide help if you ever need it. Can you manage the activities of daily living, such washing, showering, and eating? IL provides an alternative to living in a nursing home or other facility for eligible individuals. Learn everything you need to know about medical alerty systems before making a purchase. Independent Living Aids offers products for your active, independent life. Are there any stairs inside the unit or outside? It takes about 30 to 90 days to become acclimated to a new home, so keep in regular contact, especially in the first three months to reassure your loved one that they are still loved and cared for. Most retirement facilities also offer safety measures to make you feel more secure in your living space, especially if you live alone. All rights reserved. While residents live independently, most communities offer amenities, activities, and services. Low-income or subsidized senior housing. It will be less stressful if you know what to expect. The Independent Living Rehabilitation Program (IL) helps consumers live a more independent life. Some resources may already be familiar to you and some may be new, however, whatever the question or problem, knowing where to look is the first the step. Know what to expect. Location is another consideration. Its important to consider your current and future health. Even if youre looking forward to the increased social opportunities and companionship offered by independent living, you may still grieve for the loss of a home filled with memories or a neighborhood filled with familiar faces. You may be tempted to stay in your apartment or house, but youll feel comfortable much quicker if you get out there to meet the other residents, participate in activities, and explore the amenities on offer. This can include anything from in-home care to personal care and assisted-living from caregivers other senior care. Toggle menu. The AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose focus is helping people 50 and older to improve the quality of their lives. Covia's affordable assisted living program offers seniors, who meet certain income and ability requirements, a comfortable, safe place to live with help when you need it. Youll need to develop a new support network and find new medical care. There are many types of independent living facilities, from apartment complexes to separate houses, which range in cost and the services provided.Low-income or subsidized senior housing. Work through concerns together. Each community runs its Meals on Wheels based on the needs and resources of their communities, but they are all dedicated and focused on providing seniors with nourishing and healthy meals in their own homes. If there is a community restaurant, sample a meal if possible, and spend time interacting with other residents. Let your loved one decide which activities are most important, for example, or which possessions they wish to bring along. The Independent Living Program (ILP) provides financial assistance and services to current and former foster/probation youth, 16-20 years of age, who have been determined to be ILP eligible by an ILP Transition Coordinator. The National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources is a useful resource when it comes to finding qualified local services and professionals that can help you modify and renovate your home. Self-Help for the Elderly offers independent living services and housing to give seniors an option to remain The purpose of the program is to help individuals remain in their own home for as long as possible by providing needed assistance with daily living 800-537-2118 Login or Sign Up; 0. If your loved one has concerns, take them seriously. View floor plans, amenities and photos to find the best senior living Senior apartments or congregate care housing. Perhaps there are some activities that youve never explored before. These are apartment complexes restricted by age, usually 55 or 62 and older. See all 14 Independent Living options in Tracy, CA currently available for rent. To learn more, read Senior Housing Options. Browse Independent Living in Redwood City, California (CA). Will you help keep HelpGuide free for all? In addition, there is the AARP Foundation. 1999-2021 HelpGuide.org. The ILP provides training, services, and benefits to assist current and former foster youth in achieving self-sufficiency prior to If you find yourself less comfortable with driving, you may find yourself relying more and more on public transportation or family and friends to get around. In fact, it operates in just about every community, through more than 5,000 independently-run local programs. Or increased crime may mean that your neighborhood is now too dangerous to walk around safely. Created with Sketch. As a senior, you can maintain the dignity and quality of life and independence while living at home as long as your living needs are met so you are safe, healthy, and happy. Our content does not constitute a medical or psychological consultation. While your loved one will likely go through a period of adjustment after moving into an independent living or retirement home, dont automatically assume that complaints are just part of the transition process. Housing varies widely, from apartment-style living to single-family detached homes. However, if youd like a place that does not require a lot of maintenance and upkeep, independent living may give you more freedom and flexibility in the long run. Meals on Wheels known to most people is a meal program across America. If you require round-the-clock help with eating, dressing, and using the bathroom, or require regular medical assistance, other housing options such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes may be a better fit. Can you manage your finances? Learn More About Independent Living in San Jose, CA. Or while you may enjoy cooking your own meals now, you may want the option for communal meals in the future. Some of the links on this page may link to our affiliates. Use the HUD It will help your loved one to feel a sense of control over the move. Fact: Most independent living facilities offer a wide range of different activities and social events tailored to your needs and interestsfrom sports and fitness programs to gardening, book clubs, cards, arts and crafts, and adult education classes. Area Agencies on Aging is a network of over 620 organizations across America servicing local seniors (60+). Some independent living or retirement homes, for example, partner with nearby universities to offer academic classes and cultural events. Independent living facilities may also offer facilities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, tennis courts, even a golf course or other clubs and interest groups. You may receive the help you need as a student in high school, college, or a vocational program If you have already contributed, thank you. Authors: Lawrence Robinson, Joanna Saisan, M.S.W., and Doug Russell, L.C.S.W. Most of the agencies serve a specific geographic area of several neighboring counties, although a few offer services statewide. This is the place to start for Australian Government funded services or call the helpline at 1800 200 422. Youll enjoy the privacy of your own home, filled with your own furniture and possessions, and spend your days as you choose. The more isolated you are, the greater your risk for depression and other mental health problems. You may have a difficult time getting out of the house, perhaps due to trouble driving or increased mobility issues. You can contact the Eldercare Locator by calling 800-677-1116 or by visiting their website. If you see needing only minor assistance with activities of daily living, independent living may be right for you. While youll maintain your independence, youll lose the stress of maintenance and upkeep. This may feel stressful in the beginning. The countrys largest home improvement retailer recently launched its Independent Living program in partnership with National Seating & Mobility (NSM), offering in-home consultations and equipment installation. Independent living is simply any housing arrangement designed exclusively for older adults, generally those aged 55 and over. Check to see if adaptive devices like grab bars can be easily installed in bathrooms. The federal government offers a number of programs designed to help financially stressed seniors (or families) by providing them with low cost housing or by providing partial rent payments directly to landlords. For now, the program Can you manage medications and doctor appointments? While the phone and Internet can help, nothing can take the place of face-to-face human connection. Services are Pack well in advance of the move. For example, if you have a health condition that makes it difficult to stay active and will most likely worsen with time, its good to consider your options carefully. Some of these challenges may be partially remedied by hiring outside help, remodeling parts of your home, or by other family members lending assistance. Among these programs, those most relevant to the elderly are Public Housing, the Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly Section 8 rental certificates), and Section 202 Housing. Independent living communities also known simply as retirement communities in San Jose, California are geared towards seniors who are able It is worth noting that all of these programs are often referred to erroneously as assisted living voucher programs, Mission. With so much variation in the services offered, think about which are most important to you, both now and in the future. You may live in an area where you have to drive to attend social activities, visit friends, and shop. Dont minimize their feelings or focus excessively on the positive. Fact: Independent living is about preserving your independence for longer by making life easier. There are independent living programs for low-income seniors, as well as for seniors at continuing care retirement communities that have options for long-term care. Services offered: - Assisted Living Their website explores the various home and community-based and residential care available to aging veterans. Even in the best of situationswhere your loved one willingly chose to movegrief and feelings of loss are to be expected. However, as the name suggests, independent living is more about making your life easier than giving up your independence. In 1990, a nationwide survey of state and local agencies, organizations, and professionals was conducted to create this list and since that time hundreds of professionals in home repair and modification have been added. www.homemods.org/directory/index.shtmlwww.va.gov/GERIATRICS/Guide/LongTermCare/index.aspwww.healthfinder.govwww.n4a.orgwww.eldercare.govwww.PACE4You.orgwww.aarp.orgwww.ncoa.org. Since independent living facilities are aimed at older adults who need little or no assistance with activities of daily living, most do not offer medical care or nursing staff. Learn more about this meal delivery service. Often, recreational centers or clubhouses are available on site to give you the opportunity to connect with peers and participate in community activities, such as arts and crafts, holiday gatherings, continuing education classes, or movie nights. (HelpAge India), Canada: ExploreHousing options for seniors. Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program - This program subsidizes independent living-type apartments for seniors that offer services like cleaning, cooking, and transportation. Dont hesitate to explore their website or contact them directly for more information or assistance. That is our mission at HelpGuide. Most of us over the age of 65 will require some type of long-term care services, so theres nothing to be ashamed about in admitting you need more help than you used to. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). Do your homework on the independent living facility and make sure all of your questions are answered ahead of time. Sunrise Senior Living communities provide senior care services including assisted living, independent living, and memory care in the US, Canada, and the UK. Hang familiar pictures, paint the walls, and make sure you have space for your most important possessionsa favorite armchair or treasured bookcase, for example. The AARP Foundation is AARPs affiliated charity that works to assist low-income seniors in getting the necessities of life such as nutritious food, affordable housing, a steady income, and social integration. In addition, several agencies can assist families to complete applications for programs such as Medicaid, respite care, and certain veterans programs.As well, they may also have case management services to seniors in the area. Eldercare Locator is a great resource for seniors. It may be harder to visit others, pursue activities you enjoy, or keep doctors appointments. Acknowledge your loved ones feelings of loss. If you have a pet, are pets welcomed? Before we delve into any specifics, lets take a look at some insight that experts in the industry have to say about government aid programs for seniors: If residents begin to need help with activities of daily living, for example, they can transfer from independent living to an assisted living or skilled nursing facility on the same site. Are amenities outside of the facility within walking distance, or do you need transportation like a car or cart to get around? As well as onsite amenities, many independent living or retirement communities also offer convenient transportation options to outside activities. These facilities offer a spectrum of care from independent living to nursing home care in the same community. Whether you need help with your taxes, transportation, medical insurance, finding the right caregiver service, modifying your home, or finding out what government benefits you may be eligible for, there are lots of great resources that can help you get the help you need. The Senior Adult Independent Living (SAIL) program provides intake and case managed services to adults 60 years of age or older, and adults of all ages with physical disabilities. Perhaps your home has a large yard which requires constant maintenance, or maybe its becoming more difficult to clean those extra rooms that are rarely used. Are you comfortable with more compact apartment-style living, or will you only consider a detached house? Are they people youd like to know better? When visiting a retirement home, retirement community, or other independent living facility, consider these aspects: No matter what type of independent living facility you consider, you want to make sure you connect with peers and feel comfortable in the community. Reach out to trusted family or friends, or talk to a counselor or therapist. More than ever, people need a trustworthy place to turn to for guidance and hope. The thought of leaving everything you know can also make you feel vulnerable and anxious. Talk about what steps you can take together to resolve the issue. The core mission of the Senior Care Licensing Program Seniors who are still physically and mentally capable of living independently and would enjoy the (My Aged Care), India: Download theDirectory of Old Age Homes in India 2009or call theHelpAge Indiahelpline at 1800-180-1253. As a senior living independently, its important to know what types of programs, information, and benefits are available so you can live your best life. 10 Questions to Bring on Your Senior Housing Tour, 62 and over or 55 and over apartments or communities, Active adult or senior living communities, Senior living apartments or senior housing, Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). You may feel angry or embarrassed that youre no longer able to maintain your current home, or regret that it simply feels too big for you now. As a free national service of the US Administration on Aging (AoA) and an initiative of National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), it helps find local resources available to seniors such as legal and financial support, caregiving services, home repair and modification, transportation and more. These housing units can be single-family homes, duplexes, mobile homes, townhouses, or condominiums. See a certified medical or mental health professional for diagnosis.Learn more. Retirement homes/retirement communities. Its website hosts helpful information to seniors around topics such as healthy living, senior discounts, products and news specific to seniors. Take some time to acknowledge these feelings of loss. For senior veterans living at home and enrolled in the VHA health care system, the Guide to Long Term Service and Supports can provide helpful guidance to resources and information about long-term care. By using these tips, you can find an independent living arrangement that makes your life easier, prolongs your independence, and enables you to thrive in your retirement. Aging in Place Lifestyle 10 Resources for Living Independently as a Senior. Its also important to consider the health of your spouse if you are married. The Senior Care Licensing Program licenses and monitors Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly and Continuing Care Retirement Communities. This website provides links to helpful health-related websites, support, and self-help groups, in addition to as government agencies and nonprofit organizations that assist seniors. Independent senior living communities commonly provide apartments, but some also offer cottages, condominiums, and single-family homes. Healthfinder is a service under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Independent living is for older adults who want to live independently among their peers with amenities and services tailored to their needs. 2021 Aging in Place | All Rights Reserved, 10 Resources for Living Independently as a Senior, Discover more tips for comfortably aging in place, Programs Of All-Inclusive Care For The Elderly (PACE), The National Directory Of Home Modification & Repair Resources, Five Reasons You Should Keep Visiting Independent Living Communities, Independent Living Solutions For Those Wanting To Age At Home, Everything You Want to Know About Senior Independent Living, Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources, Tips And Tricks For Successful Senior Independent Living, How to Protect Yourself From Medicare Fraud, Comfort Living: Why It Is Okay To Age At Home, A Complete Guide to Medical Alert Systems, Nutrition and meal programs (counseling, home delivered or group meals), Caregiver support (respite care and training for caregivers), Information about assistance programs and referrals to administrators, Insurance counseling to seniors (to help understand and maximize the benefits of their insurance such as Medicare), Transportation (information about coordinated shared, non-medical transportation services). To qualify for PACE seniors must be certified by their state to need nursing home care and live in a PACE service area (over 230 PACE centers in 31 states). In the U.S., for example, there are senior housing complexes subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for low-income seniors. As a senior living independently, its important to know what types of programs, information, and benefits are available so you can live your best life. Aging is always a time of adaptation and change but its important to give yourself time to mourn the past and get used to the idea of moving to a new home. If you decide to buy a unit, additional monthly fees may cover services such as outside maintenance, recreation centers, or clubhouses. In your potential housing unit, get a feel for future adaptability. However, if you feel like youre taking longer than you think you should to adjust, it may help to talk to your family members, a trusted friend, or a therapist. In the U.S., you can expect average monthly costs for independent living For example, if you value exercise, consider a community with an exercise area, pool, or fitness classes. In fact, there are many services and programs specifically geared at helping seniors so they can live healthy, balanced lives at home in dignity. Independent living costs vary greatly. These communities a Keep your loved one involved in all the planning and decision-making about their new home. Instead, the living For many older adults, moving to an independent living facility can open up an exciting new chapter in life, full of new experiences, new friendships, and new interests. Are support services timely, with a staff thats friendly and accessible? What you need from an independent living or retirement facility depends on your own unique situation. Can you easily get to places you frequently use such as a library, college, or medical services? In general, the housing is friendlier to aging adults, often being more compact, with easier navigation and no maintenance or yard work to worry about. Developed for older adults living independently in their own homes, the Maryland Community for Life program delivers key services designed to navigate predictable home maintenance, transportation, Living independently as a senior doesnt mean that you are alone. In addition to adjusting to a new living environment, youll be meeting new neighbors and probably being introduced to new activities. Costs of Independent Living. Go easy on yourself. If you or your spouse are relatively healthy now, but anticipate significant health problems down the line, you may want to consider a CCRC. It is a way of looking at disability that puts the individual first and the disability second. Assisted living is for seniors who can no longer When you visit the area, talk with some of the residents. Dont add to the stress of the actual move by putting yourself in a position where youll need to make hasty decisions about what to take and what to discard. Socialize. Its important to understand that there are many resources available to seniors aging at home to put off the need for senior housing and a retirement community and ensure we live independently. With independent living and skilled nursing on the same campus, you have access to a complete continuum of care in the heart of Palo Alto. Its important to realize that all of these feelings are normal. Independent living is seen as a step in eldercare right before the option of assisted living. In the U.S., for example, there are senior housing complexes subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for low-income seniors.Senior apartments or congregate care housing. It provides information on available programs, as well as helpful tools, and information about how to stay healthy as you age. Are your favorite hobbies or interests catered for? Guide to independent living and retirement communities. Is there a fitness center, games room, or coffee shop available onsite? 14 Senior Independent Living Communities in Tracy, CA. LIFE, which stands for Living Independently for Elders, is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). (Government of Canada). There are 55+ Communities,Independent Living and Assisted Living communities which offer one of several different government assistance programs designed for low-income seniors.Income The Independent Living Community works toward