Senior Living/Elder Law: Are “Green Houses” the Solution for Your Senior Living Needs?”

Senior Housing is a hot topic!  Seniors worry about where and how they’ll live if they need skilled care and/or assisted living, families worry about the quality of their loved one’s life in institutionalized living, and everyone worries about costs, quality, location, and availability. Many are trying to create practical and affordable solutions while also addressing the overall perception that “nursing homes” are no one’s first choice.

I recently read an article in nextavenue.org that introduces a very promising solution which is, apparently, catching on all over the USA – – Green Houses. The “group home” model is hardly new, but Green Houses have a resident-centered participatory flavor to them that struck me as unique and designed to keep residents not only cared for but valued as a member of a community in a small, home atmosphere.

http://www.nextavenue.org/blog/new-homes-range-better-care-elders?utm_source=Next+Avenue+Email+Newsletter&utm_campaign=12df505527-12_02_14_NextAvenue_Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_056a405b5a-12df505527-165014273&mc_cid=12df505527&mc_eid=7964c33fdb

Once I read the article, I visited the Green House Project website (see below link). Very interesting!  There’s a short video tease you can watch about the documentary.

thegreenhouseproject.org

And, here’s a link to a blog that discusses the first “green house” in Minnesota (Mankato).

http://blog.thegreenhouseproject.org/first-green-house-homes-in-minnesota-officially-open/

As I’ve mentioned in many other entries, it’s best to try to shop for and plan senior living options for yourself or your loved ones before there’s a health crisis of some sort. Obviously, when you don’t plan ahead, an emergency can really limit your choices. Especially for those who may be concerned about finances and capacity issues as seniors or who are caring for seniors with those issues, understanding your options now so you can plan ahead is very important. Many people can introduce you to different types of senior housing. Be sure to check in with an Elder Law Attorney who can assist you with understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each type and explain any legal and/or financial consequences of your choices.

ALL READERS:   This blog is not, nor shall it be deemed to be, legal advice or counsel. This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader.  It is designed to encourage thoughtful consideration of important legal issues with the expectation that readers will seek professional advice from a licensed attorney.