Ask Rita
Today Rita is answering readers' questions about housing options. She describes three options that work for some older adults: shared housing, senior apartments, and board and care homes.
Q: My husband died a few months ago and I'm thinking about selling the house and moving into a smaller place. That would probably make good financial sense, but the thought of giving up my home makes me very sad. Do you have any suggestions?
A: There's no rule that says you have to move right away just because you live alone now. In fact, some counselors advise people to wait for a full year after they have lost a partner before making any major life decisions.
There's also no rule that says you have to move to a smaller place if you're happy where you are. You might want to consider a "shared housing" arrangement with one or two other adults. In addition to having a few people around to share with the housework and expenses of keeping up your home, you gain the extra bonus of companionship. Of course, you would need to talk about things like pets and chores before embarking on this sort of arrangement.
Q: My sister and I live in an apartment in the city. We like being able to walk to the shops and we get around pretty well by taking the bus that stops just down the block. We're not getting any younger, though, and our building has lots of stairs. My sister is going to have a hip operation next year and we're not sure how she'll be able to get around with a wheelchair. Our building is rather old and not wheelchair accessible.
A: It might be time to look at a "senior apartment building." Most of these buildings are easy for older adults to get around in, by wheelchair or by foot. Since there are waiting lists for many of these buildings, you may want to get your name on the list soon so that you can move before your sister's operation. You might even be able to find such a place very close to where you're living now.
Q: My wife passed away two years ago and I still haven't learned to cook very well. I'm healthy, so I don't think I need to go into a nursing home or anything like that, but I'd like to find a place where meals are provided. Is that an impossible dream?
A: Not at all. What you're looking for is called a "board and care home."This is basically a boarding house where you would have your own room, but your meals and laundry would be taken care of for you. Most likely you would share your meals with others in a cafeteria-style setting. Contact your local housing authority to find out more about board and care homes in your community.
Next: Good Move
