Where can I find inexpensive senior citizen housing in my area?

Surely you are eligible for some added assistance with rent. I am fortunate enough to still be working so it is not an issue for me, but I think lots of people are getting help with an income that is about equal to yours. And you are welcome for caring. That's what we're here for.

Sherry, I did not retire from the army and no disability. Just S.S. and it is adequate. I was answering someone's question. I get 1336.00 a month. I pay $763 at this retirement apartment. Too much for old folks, but I do OK. Thanks for caring. Verna

I can tell you from personal experience to avoid the American House facilities. Our history with this large corporation was a nightmare of demands and oppression.

via 1951 are you getting a veteran's pension? You should be with your low SS income. Check into it you could be getting up to $1800 per month.

If you're a veteran they can provide some help. Also ask for help from Lutheran Social Sevices, Catholic Charities, and any other large mainstream churches, many do offer help to poor folks of all ages.

I am on S.S. and no savings because of moving expenses. But I can live on that . I pay $763 a month plus utilities and internet. I manage. Get a phone book and call all of them in your area. I live in Vancouver, WA. but I wish I were back home in Oklahoma City. My daughter lives near here and takes me to the store and VA hospital. I am thankful for the VA as all I pay is $8.00 a month for my meds. I am on 5 including insulin. I am 82 and still hanging in there!!

You are very wise to be planning and brave to consider change. A lot of people are not aware, or are stubborn and want to stay put, even if it is not the best thing for them. As SherryAnne says, there may be several resources available to help you. While housing is usually your greatest expense, there may be other programs that can help you, especially if it does take a little to get into a housing program. Start with calling 1-800-MEDICARE or go to Social Security and ask if you qualify for "extra help". There are programs that can help you pay for your Medicare and/or health and prescription drug insurances. Your local Social Services agency or Area Agency on Aging can also tell you about programs such as the food stamps, or even help with utilities, such as reduced electric, gas or telephone bills. Every little bit helps.
Don't be ashamed to ask for help. You and/or your family members pay into these programs, and likely have been paying for years. You are not asking for charity.

You may be eligible for a sliding scale - based on income housing under HUD. It's Section 202 (as opposed to Section 8) http://homeguides.sfgate.com/qualify-low-income-hud-senior-housing-8480.html. You may be able to get rent assistance in any privately owned complex that takes Section 8 or Section 202. Also there are apartments in our area that are for seniors on limited income. Around here, there's a waiting list, but it would be worth it. all of these communities are elderly and/or disabled only so you don't get into a complex that doesn't resonate with your life style. (You don't need a playground or kiddie pool or Karaoke night at the club house) These complexes often have social events geared for their residents as well. A friend of mine moved into one when she retired and she loved it. Her income was only $700 per month so she got food stamps and paid only about $35 per month rent as I remember it. There should be a county agency or city agency that could help you find the right situation.

Great information, Dave.

Contact your church office. I am on a list @my church to do home care. You might find in your church a young person in college willing to live-in with Mom. This would give you incredible peace of mind. God bless you and mom.

The Area Agency on Aging for Northeastern Vermont is a private, community-based, non-profit organization working to support older adults (age 60+) and their family caregivers to live healthy, active, independent and productive lives. We serve residents in the counties of Caledonia, Orleans and Essex.
We're here to help with all matters related to aging.

Our Agency maintains a list of Senior Housing buildings by county. We can also assist you in finding resources for assistance in home modifications. The contact information is listed here:
https://www.agingcare.com/local/Area-Agency-on-Aging-for-Northeastern-Vermont-St-Johnsbury-Area-Agency-on-Aging-VT

In answer to where do I find affortable housing in my area...
Contact your local senior center for referrals.
Contact your area agency for seniors I.e. tri country area of aging agency...local gov. Office.
Contact a social worker who works with seniors.
Check with area assisted living facilities and ask for a reduced rent apt. I.e. assisted living apt are for independent seniors who are self sufficient and have full single dwelling units.
Ask your doctor for a senior referral for support via a social worker to help with all of your needs i.e. health, medication, housing maybe be covered via insurance with a medical need.