Senior housing facilities are designed for individuals aged 55 and older. These units are occupied by the elderly who are fully self-reliant or those who maintain their independence with the help of certain home services. People usually move into 55-and-over senior housing when they downsize from a property that may be expensive or leave an unsuitable home. These apartments provide them with benefits like less maintenance, a relaxed life, and increased leisure time.
Eligibility for senior housing
There are different housing options for the elderly—independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing facilities, and senior apartments. Each of these options may have additional sub-classifications. Senior housing for those 55 and over is typically designed to meet the specific needs of older adults. This type of housing also provides greater opportunities for senior citizens who are actively seeking avenues for independent living without being concerned about high living costs.
- The eligibility requirements for senior living houses can differ based on the location and type of unit being considered. Some regional authorities strictly enforce age restrictions. So, for example, if a given housing complex is meant for individuals aged 65 and older, anyone under the age of 65 is automatically ineligible.
- In the case of a 55-and-over senior housing facility, at least one of the tenants needs to be 55 or older. This provision adds some flexibility to the eligibility criteria, enabling younger adult family members to reside with the senior who is 55 years of age or older. That said, some senior housing facilities may enforce stricter age restrictions, permitting only individuals aged 62 or above to reside in the units.
- When applying for senior housing, income verification is a key part of eligibility. One needs to provide documentation to demonstrate that their income falls below a specific level. In many cases, this threshold is set at around 50% of the Area Median Income in a specific region.
Types of senior living facilities
Housing facilities may be occupied by either incredibly active individuals or those who need assistance on a 24×7 basis. Depending on age, level of care, and several other factors, senior housing facilities are classified into various categories.
1. 55+ community
As the name implies, these housing communities have age restrictions. Normally, the people who occupy these houses are older adults who wish to maintain their independence but still require assistance from or the company of others of the same age group and similar life experiences. In such communities, the elderly occupants are responsible for all their daily activities. Those who prefer to have assistance can opt to include it in their rented apartment.
2. Independent living
Although many aspects of this kind of senior housing and the 55+ communities overlap, independent living is frequently meant for seniors over 62 years of age. Occupants here are those who wish to receive help with daily tasks like house maintenance, cooking, and transportation can do so easily. Home care services are generally available around the community. Normally, independent living facilities for the elderly are known as retirement communities. Here, several social activities are organized from time to time to meet residents’ social and overall health needs.
3. Adult residential care
Many seniors wish to maintain their independence but also require some additional care or support with certain tasks. Adult residential care can help here by offering the perfect balance between independence and assistance. Such a facility also offers various services, amenities, and activities to cater to an individual’s needs. The rooms of these senior housing facilities can be private or semi-private. The option for round-the-clock assistance with daily living is readily available.
Adult residential care facilities are similar to assisted living facilities. This means that here, too, staff members will offer assistance 24×7 to elderly occupants with activities like dining, housekeeping, transportation, social events, and many more. As is the case with adult residential care, residents in assisted living facilities can also opt for assistance with at least one of the activities of daily living, such as dressing, using the restroom, cooking and eating meals, or bathing.
Some of the other types of housing options with similar characteristics are residential care homes and nursing homes.
Applying for senior housing
The application process can vary from one housing facility to another. That said, there are general steps that one usually has to follow when applying to a facility.
Researching housing options
Based on their needs and preferences, seniors can choose housing facilities that they will move into once they meet the eligibility criteria and have examined the facility. Seniors can also research housing options online or physically visit different housing communities to make informed decisions.
Contacting housing authorities
Following a thorough evaluation, seniors can narrow down suitable options and then get in touch with local authorities or management of housing communities. Doing so will help one get important details about the senior living facilities.
Completing application forms
Finally, the authorities will require applicants to provide their identification documents and other data to prove their eligibility. Applicants will also have to fill out application forms to register themselves as occupants of the housing facility. Once the forms are filled, they should be submitted to the authorities along with the necessary documents.
