If you’re a senior, living alone or with family members, you may be interested in how some seniors are opening their homes, finding “strangers” to share their housing arrangements. They share housing in an effort to control rising expenses on a fixed income, and, in some cases, to increase safety, and curb loneliness and tendencies toward isolation.
It’s called “Creating Community.”
As many readers know, “senior housing” (a very broad definition) can be hard to find because:
- there are limited options, space, or locations;
- it can be expensive, and;
- it can be confusing to navigate due to government regulation, facility rules, and personal expectations.
Additionally, “aging in place” is preferable for many people, when possible. But, when finances, safety, and access to social connections and health care services becomes an issue, many seniors (especially those who live alone), may need to think creatively to solve their housing needs and maintain their independence.
Shared Housing solves many of these issues for seniors with a number of different concerns and/or interests, and offers a variety of ways to find people who wish to do the same. This senior housing resource might not be for everyone, but it may be helpful to some who do not want to consider the more traditional assisted living route.
If you have questions or concerns about needing to qualify for public assistance for your medical and/or housing needs in the future, you should consult with an attorney who specializes in Elder Law and can assist you in determining your best options and outcomes.
Twin Cities Cohousing Network (TCCN) – soon to be Twin Cities Cohousing.org is a great resource to start exploring options.