Many people are afraid that as they get older they won't be able to live alone. The good news is that there are more and more options for older people who can't, or don't, choose to live alone.

If you are an older adult who wants another person around for assistance, for company, or for security, think about these options:

• Living at home but allowing another person in your home. Many college students or young adults are glad to help out around the house in exchange for reduced or free rent. High school exchange programs for students from another country have worked out well for many seniors.
• Having a roommate. A middle-aged or older adult might be a good person to share a place with. This cuts down on expenses, too.
• Living in an apartment complex designed for older adults. Many of these have apartments are designed to make life easier with bathtubs, commodes, and cabinets that are built for easy access. Some may have a person who checks in with you once a day. Many have cords in the bathroom or other rooms which can be pulled for help in case of emergency.

If you need more assistance or a slightly higher level of care, think about these options:

• Living in senior or congregate housing. These apartment complexes often have a shared dining hall or community rooms for activities.
• Living in a board and care home for older adults. These are homes licensed by the state, run by one or two caretakers, usually with fewer than ten people living there.
• Living in a continuing care retirement community. This is one of the higher-priced options.

For more information about community living options, contact the American Association of Retired Persons at (202) 434-3700, or your local senior citizen's center.





Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go




Copyright © 1997 National Health Enhancement Systems, Inc. (602) 230-7575. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change without notice.


Top of Page