generally responsible for their own utilities,
and personal care. These communities
do not offer the type of personal care
services that assisted living communities
and memory care facilities provide,
however often have recreational centers
or clubhouses available on site to give
seniors the opportunity to connect with
neighbors and participate in community
activities, such as arts and crafts, holiday
gatherings, continuing education classes,
movie nights, or game nights and more.
Some 55 plus communities provide
laundry and kitchen services, as well as
24-hour staff and/or concierge to attend
to any other needs. Many communities
offer amenities such as:
• Swimming pools
• Dance classes
• Fitness programs
• Art studios
• Religious activities
• Organized card, board and video games
• Billiards
• Putting greens/golf courses
If a community does not offer such
opportunities on site, they may supply
transportation to off-site locations for
these activities. Most community fees
include landscaping services and security.
Affordable Housing
The U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) creates
affordable housing through assistive
services for seniors and the disabled.
There are three types of affordable rent
programs:
• Public Housing: owned and run by local
Public Housing Agencies (PHAs).
• Multifamily Subsidized Housing:
privately owned housing that is
subsidized by HUD.
• Housing Vouchers: provide rental
assistance to individuals and families
for housing in the private market.
Keep in mind that HUD programs are
designed primarily for independent seniors
and the waiting lists for HUD housing are
often long (from two to five years).
12 www.PolkElderCare.com