Several senior citizens live on a fixed salary or pension. Social security does provide subsidies; however, this may not always be enough to cover the cost of living. Some solutions to finding affordable senior housing are given below.
HUD housing choice vouchers: This program offers subsidized housing to the elderly, disabled, and low-income families. In order to qualify, your salary should not be more than 50% of the median salary of your state. All you need to apply is your birth certificate, tax records, banking information, and references stating that you will be a good tenant. You can then use this voucher to pay for rent in a residence of your own.
Shared housing: Much like in college, having a roommate often helps make rent more affordable. This is true even when searching for affordable senior housing. Sharing a house with another senior allows for lowered rent as well as companionship. Another form of shared housing may be sharing your living space with your children or grandchildren. This may be seen as ensuring safety as well.
Retirement communities: This form of age-restricted housing is not only affordable but also offers a number of housing options ranging from townhouses and duplexes to mobile homes. To avail of this type of housing, one needs to be aged 55 years or older. The rent would include a maintenance and recreational fee.
Rental information: You can find more information on affordable senior housing options in your area by using the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Database. One can even search specifically for special needs or low-income housing. It is thus an easy way to narrow down your search.
Affordable senior housing is thus available in various forms. And as evident, living on a budget does not necessarily mean giving up on finding a home that suits yours and your loved one’s needs.