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Guide to Searching for Appropriate Housing Options

The following is a Guide to Searching for Appropriate Housing Options. As there are many people and caregivers unable to locate a suitable living environment, we are including this guide in the hope that it will benefit our visitors.

The purpose of this guide is to provide information for people with disabilities who are 18 to 59 years of age, and does not necessarily offer information specifically for the elderly.

New Horizons Un-Limited assumes no responsibility in guaranteeing the services, programs or conditions as described. If you are interested in a resource listed below, call or contact the resource to verify the current situation. Carefully evaluate the information we provide and make your own decisions when using this guide.

Guide on Searching for Appropriate Housing Options

There is no question that the road to finding and obtaining a safe, affordable and appropriate living environment is a long one. At the same time, the path is not clear, oftentimes leading you down a dead end street. There are so many options, so many agencies, and so much confusion. This guide is intended to provide individuals with disabilities and caregivers a very clear picture of the housing process. It will discuss your responsibilities as well as outline the criteria for each living environment. It will further discuss programs and organizations that are available to you throughout this process. This guide is intended to provide you with the information you need to begin your search.

Each individual's circumstance will often determine the direction of the search. The very first step you must take in determining which living environment is most appropriate is to assess your needs and determine your abilities.

• What type or extent of care is required? The type of living environment will often be determined based upon either physical and/or mental capabilities and needs.
• Can you move about freely or with very limited (human) support?
• Can you make rational, well thought out decisions?
• Can you provide yourself with proper care and nutrition?
• Do you need assistance with daily living tasks?
• Do you require constant care and/or assistance?

Once you determine the extent of care required, you would now be able to further assess your level of independence.

• Do you hold steady employment?
• Do you have a steady source of income?
• Do you have the ability to travel on your own?
• Have you lived independently in the past?

The next step you must take is to assess your financial situation.

• Are you capable of making payments privately (with no financial assistance)?
• Will your insurance/Medicare provider or Supplemental Security Income cover the costs of your chosen living environment?
• Are you eligible for subsidized housing?

While this list of questions is not exhaustive, your responses will help you determine what type of living environment is most appropriate. Following, you will find an outline of each environment and the appropriateness of each in accordance with your needs (in order of independence).

Home Ownership

Of course the most independent of all living environments is that of living in your own home. This situation requires a great deal of financial and physical and/or mental independence. While this environment may appear feasible, you must take many factors into consideration before getting involved in more than you are willing and able to take on. Consider the following:

• Can you afford the mortgage payment, utility bills, house maintenance, property taxes, etc.?
• Is the home accessible? If not, can you afford to make the changes?
• Are you capable of completing house and yard maintenance? If not, do you know any one that is willing to assist you, or are you capable of paying for professional maintenance?
• Is the home's location convenient? Can you easily move about the city (for groceries, doctor's appointments, etc.)?
• Are you fully capable of meeting your basic living needs with little or no assistance?

This environment requires that you be fully capable of meeting all of your daily living needs (i.e. cooking, cleaning, shopping, basic hygiene, etc.) on your own or with minimal assistance. This option is also available to individuals that have immediate family, such as a spouse or child, that can offer daily assistance as needed. Of course there is also a possibility of either hiring a home aide or having a live-in companion. However, this option will raise additional financial concerns if you are not eligible for financial assistance. If you would like to learn more about hiring a home health aide, visit New Horizons Un-Limited: Guide to Searching for and Selecting a Home Health Aide.

Home ownership is most suitable for those with steady employment and/or disability benefits, therefore providing a steady, reliable income. It is very important to consider all of the costs involved. While a few are mentioned above, this list is not exhaustive; there are many "hidden" costs you must take into account. There is a possibility however, to save on the price of the home itself, through Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD offers homes, which have been foreclosed on, to low and moderately low income individuals. Many HUD homes are sold as is. This means that the home may require extensive repairs; repairs that you must finance. They also may not be located in the safest areas. This is not to say that you cannot find a beautiful home in a nice area, but you do want to make certain you research thoroughly. For more information on HUD homes, you can visit Housing and Urban Development: How to buy a HUD home.

If you feel owning your own home is indeed the most suitable living environment, you can continue your research by visiting Housing and Urban Development (HUD): People with Disabilities or Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Own a Home. Both sections offer valuable information regarding searching for and purchasing a home.

Apartment Rental

The second most independent living environment is a rental apartment. While this living arrangement requires the same level of physical and/or mental independence as if you owned your own home, there are some financial advantages of this arrangement, especially in subsidized housing environments. Nonetheless there are still a number of items you must consider while determining whether or not this environment is best for you.

• Is the apartment complex accessible?
• Is the rental unit accessible? If not, can you afford to make the changes?
• Does the landlord live on-site? Can he/she be easily reached?
• Is the complex in a safe neighborhood? Is the complex secure?
• Does the complex meet health code standards?
• Does the complex allow for easy and quick exit (for individuals with disabilities) in case of fire or other emergency?
• Is the complex conveniently located?
• Are you fully capable of meeting your basic living needs with little or no assistance?

This environment, similar to that of home ownership, requires a great level of independence, if not more. In this case, you not only have your living unit to take into consideration, but the common areas of the building and building grounds as well. If you need to make modifications to your living space, you are entitled to do so with the knowledge and permission of the owner. However, it is also your responsibility to not only pay for the changes, but also the restoration costs, upon your departure from the unit. At the same time, you must also be permitted to make reasonable accommodations to the common areas of the building; again the costs are your responsibility.

It is also very important to consider the location of the building. Consider not only the convenience, but also the safety. Often times, although certainly not always, low-income or subsidized housing units are not located in the safest areas. If you chose to pursue this type of housing, be absolutely certain your building, as well as your living unit are secure. Consider whether or not the lobby is locked at all times, and whether or not there is a security camera or intercom system in place. Does your apartment unit have properly working locks or dead bolts and security chains? Do the windows lock properly? Is the area well lit? Is the building easily accessible by police and or emergency crews?

Speaking in terms of convenience, there are several more factors to take into consideration. When determining the best location, consider the proximity to shopping, your doctor's office, friends and family, etc. If you do not drive, you must also consider the availability of transportation. For example, are you located near a bus line? You must also keep in mind that pay-per-ride transportation services will not cross county lines, therefore make certain you choose a location within the county of your doctor and/or therapist.

If you feel this environment is indeed most appropriate, make certain you know and understand your rights. You can visit Nolo's Legal Encyclopedia - Housing Rights of Disabled Tenants to learn more about your rights as a disabled tenant or prospective tenant. Nolo's Legal Encyclopedia also offers Ten Tips Every Tenant Should Know which explains how you can make certain that the rental process goes as smoothly as possible.

Make certain you are fully aware of all available options and as prepared as possible before deciding on a location or living environment. To continue your research into rental housing, visit Housing and Urban Development: People with Disabilities. You can also visit your local Center for Independent Living (CIL), at which a housing specialist will assess your situation and then explain the options available to you. To find a CIL in your area, visit our State Centers for Independent Living resource list.

Both home ownership and apartment rental is available to the most independent of individuals. Often times, you will have had extensive independent living experience which allows you to recognize your needs and capabilities. This, in turn, allows you to make competent decisions regarding the best living environment for you.

The following environments, on the other hand, are typically not for those capable of fulfilling their daily living needs. Often times, families and/or guardians seek out the following facilities for their loved one with a disability. This portion of the guide is intended to assist families and guardians of individuals with disabilities in finding an environment that will provide a proper level of care for that individual with a disability. Keep in mind that it is important to include your loved one throughout the search process. Make certain you understand his/her desires. If you currently care for an individual with a disability, the following may help you and your loved one determine the most appropriate environment.

Assisted Living Facilities

A third, relatively independent living environment can be found in assisted living or supported living facilities. These facilities are for those individuals that need assistance with daily living activities but still wish to live as independently as possible. Although some assistance is needed, constant care is not required. This environment is the most independent of all group facilities. Unfortunately, however, most facilities of this nature are intended for individuals over the age of 60. Nonetheless, there are more and more of this type of facility becoming available for younger individuals with disabilities. Following are a few questions you may want to address in order to determine if this environment is most appropriate.

• What daily needs is your loved one able and/or unable to fulfill?
• What level of supervision does your loved one require throughout the day?
• Are you or your loved one capable of paying for the facility charges privately, in the event that, the charges are not covered by Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income?
• Has your loved one lived independently in the past?

These facilities tend to draw a very fine line between independence and dependence. While there are certainly exceptions, this type of facility may not necessarily be appropriate for individuals with developmental disabilities. You want to be absolutely certain that your loved one is generally capable of caring for themselves, with the exception of minor daily activities such as meal preparation, bathing, dressing, etc. Assisted Living facilities are not prepared to handle extreme situations in which individuals require continuous assistance and care.

Furthermore, Assisted Living Facilities can be very costly and may not be covered under Insurance plans or Medicaid. The average cost can begin at $1000 per month and rise to as high as $3000 per month with the addition of various services and amenities. To find out whether or not your state offers payment assistance through either Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income call the Medicaid Office in your state. You can also contact your local human services office.

If you indeed feel this environment is best for your loved one, it is extremely important you take great care and consideration when choosing a facility. Involve your loved one throughout the decision-making process as much as possible. It is especially important to take your loved one's interests into consideration, as many facilities will offer specialized programs. Tour the facilities several times at different points throughout the day so that you can get a clear picture of the environment. Throughout your research take special note of the following:

• Is the facility in compliance with state and federal regulations?
• Is the facility well kept and clean?
• Is the facility secure?
• Is the facility accessible?
• Does the facility offer individual intercoms in each room?
• Is there a 24-hour emergency response system in place?
• Are the staff and residents friendly, do they appear happy?
• How large is the facility? What is the staff to resident ratio?
• What type of services and activities are offered?
• Is the resident encouraged to socialize with other residents?
• How many and what types of personal belongings are allowed?
• What types of meals are served?
• Do visitation restrictions exist?
• Is the resident allowed to leave throughout the day on his or her own accord?

As you can see, there are very many factors you want to take into consideration. You want to make certain that the facility offers a stimulating, comforting environment, one that your loved one will be happy to call home. For more tips on how to select an Assisted Living facility as well as assistance in locating facilities throughout the United States, visit Assisted Living Info.

Group Homes

A fourth living environment, a Group Home, is typically an ideal environment for individuals with developmental disabilities. These environments can allow your loved one to learn and grow, while also providing them with the supervised care they need. Group homes are designed to encourage the greatest level of independence possible, by finding the potential within each resident. Group homes tend to attract varying levels of disabilities. Consider the following factors when determining if a Group Home is the most appropriate environment for your loved one:

• Does your loved one have relatively substantial cognitive abilities?
• Can your loved one think and act relatively independently?
• Does your loved one have well-developed social skills?
• What level of care does your loved one require?

Many times, group home residents may not only be developmentally disabled, but physically disabled as well. Generally, group homes do require some level of independence. Residents should typically be able to think and act independently, with the majority of their motor skills intact. In addition, because this environment encourages community interaction, your loved one should be willing to interact with a variety of individuals. Furthermore, individuals should require limited health care. While this environment is designed to offer supervision, it is not equipped to satisfy extreme health care needs.

When choosing a Group Home for your loved one you must keep in mind that the intended design is not always followed, in that, some facilities do not have the staffing to provide your loved one with a proper environment. If you feel this environment will indeed be most appropriate for your loved one, here are a few items to keep in mind:

• Are state and federal regulations being adhered to?
• Is the home for-profit or non-profit?
• What is the staff turnover rate?
• What is the staff to resident ratio?
• What type of experience and/or qualifications does the staff have?
• Is the home located within a community setting?
• Is the home secure?
• Is the home accessible?
• What types or levels of activities are encouraged and/or mandatory?
• What type of social activities does the home offer?
• Will your loved one's personality mesh with the other residents and staff members?

As with assisted living, this decision requires great care. You want to make certain the staff is qualified to handle your loved one's special needs. More importantly, you want to ensure that your loved one is in a caring, nurturing environment. Assessing just the staff's qualifications is not enough. You must also attempt to assess their personality and their ability and willingness to offer love and support to your loved one. A good indicator of the level of care provided might be whether or not the home is for-profit. While this is certainly not always the case, often a for-profit company is primarily concerned with income and not the residents' well being. This is not to say that non-profit facilities will always offer the best care either. Your primary focus should be to find an environment that will best complement your loved one's personality and capabilities. Again, it is very important to make several visits to the homes. If possible, talk to families of current residents. Above all, do not rush the decision and do as much research as possible.

Nursing Homes

A final living environment is offered in a Nursing Home. This environment offers the lowest level of independence, and is typically designed for those individuals that require the greatest level of health care and daily living assistance. Oftentimes, this will be the absolute last alternative for a living/care environment. Consider the following factors when determining if a Nursing Home is the most appropriate environment for your loved one:

• Is your loved one incapable of caring for themselves?
• Is your loved one incapable of making rational decisions?
• Does your loved one require extensive medical care?
• Have you considered a live-in home health aide?

Nursing Homes have typically been reserved for the elderly. It is very difficult to locate a Nursing Home that specializes in caring for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, some Nursing Homes may not be able to offer specialized therapy, rehabilitation or training for individuals with disabilities due to state licensing restrictions. Nonetheless, if your loved one requires a greater level of care than you or your family is capable of giving, a Nursing Home may be your only other option. If you feel this environment will indeed be most appropriate for your loved one, here are a few items to keep in mind when searching for the most appropriate facility:

• What daily living needs does your loved one have?
• What medical needs does your loved one have?
• What has your loved one's physician recommended in terms of care?
• What is your loved one's financial situation?

The best way to choose a home is by thoroughly assessing your loved ones needs. Nursing Home Info offers an excellent needs assessment tool. Once you make a proper assessment, you can begin researching facilities. Many homes will offer varying levels of care and expertise. Again, make time to tour the facilities so to make certain the staff will adequately meet the needs of your loved one.

If you are treating this environment as a temporary rehabilitation opportunity, make certain the home is willing to work with you and your loved one upon completion of the rehabilitation. Find out if they are affiliated with an assisted living facility, so that the transition can take place quickly and as closely following the rehabilitation completion as possible. You want to make certain your loved one is constantly stimulated while also fulfilling the potential they have within themselves.

Before you begin your search for a facility however, you will first want to assess your loved one's financial situation. Nursing Homes can cost anywhere from $2000 to $7000 per month, and if your loved one has assets, they will be expected to pay privately until such assets are gone. Additionally, some facilities may only accept individuals that have the means to pay privately. Therefore, in the event that your loved one's assets run out, either you will have to find the means to continue payment, or, you will have to begin your search for a facility that accepts alternative payment methods, such as Medicaid.

Medicaid will pay for long term care as long as the state deems the care necessary. To find out more about your states qualification rules, visit or call the Medicaid Office in your state. While you or your loved one can choose to divest assets so that your loved one will be eligible for Medicaid, there have been recent regulations passed that limit an individual's opportunity to spread out their assets among family members and/or friends. This emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. While it can be a difficult decision, you must face the fact that at some point your loved one may require the care provided by a nursing home. Beginning your research early will only ensure the smoothest transition, not only for your loved one, but for your family as well. To continue your research, visit Nursing Home Info.

Whichever environment you feel is most appropriate, it is essential that you carefully consider all options available to you. The only way you can accurately consider each option is by completing a proper needs assessment. The needs assessment will only lead to a better understanding of your and /or your loved ones abilities; which will in turn, help you in determining the most appropriate environment. Another item to keep in mind is that you can never begin your research too early. Many of the county programs have very extensive waiting lists. For instance, if you are in need of financial assistance, the wait can be as long as 15 years, depending on the type of disability. Do not jeopardize your independence by delaying your search.

An excellent organization to begin your research within Wisconsin is Independence First. They offer a number of housing services and resources that will greatly enhance your research efforts. If you are located outside of Wisconsin, visit your local Center for Independent Living.

The preceding guide was derived from the following sources:

Nursing Home Info
Assisted Living Info
Nolo Law for All
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

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