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Once my mother passes, I will be left with half an income which will not be enough to live in this high rent apartment. I am so worried that I may be evicted as I am unemployed due to caring for my mother on a long term basis. I know when my mother passes, I'll be an emotional wreck although I receive emotional support from a support group I attend. Wait lists for senior housing usually almost always have a 2 year wait period. Any suggestions how to survive between the time of my mother's death and what do I do now that she's gone? I only receive a small SS benefit and am healthy enough to work part time. But your first pay check usually takes 3 weeks to arrive. Thanks for your wisdom.

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I would get on lists now. You can always ask to be skipped or you and mom can move so that you are not left high and dry during a difficult period.

A paycheck is the least timely concern, it is finding the job that can be time consuming.
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EssieMarie Oct 2019
Thank you so much for your wisdom. Do you think moving us to a cheaper apartment would help me save money monthly for these kinds of emergencies? I know I'm asking impossible questions but don't want to have a nervous breakdown trying to bury mom and find housing for myself. It's a scary thought.
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Essiemarie, every dollar that is not spent on an expensive apartment can be saved.

I would start looking at your budget and looking for a new address. Your rent should not be more than 30% of your net income, 25% is a better goal. I believe that I have read that senior assisted housing is 30% of your income. Ask them what happens when you lose your mom. Make sure that you can either downsize, get a roommate or get a rent adjustment.

I would do a monthly list of all fixed expenses and look at the last 12 months to figure out an average on variable utilities. You can get most necessary utilities set up on annual plans that guarantee that you pay the exact same amount monthly. I would do this if your utilities vary widely from one season to the next.

I would also make sure that you are getting the best prices available on items like phone and internet. I think that the price increases sneak up and we don't realize that a phone call to update services can save us money.

Putting a budget in writing will show you exactly how every penny is allocated and it will help you know what you should be looking at for a rental amount.

I don't know where you live, but would a small trailer in a mobile home park be more economical? Maybe you could purchase something that is parked in a park that you will be able to afford for yourself.

There are lots of options, just getting out of our own box helps.
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EssieMarie Oct 2019
Very wise counsel. Thanks so much!!!
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I don’t know how it works in VA but out here, if you ask to be skipped when your name comes up for low income housing, they take you off the list completely and you have to apply again the next time the waiting list opens up :(

I think you need to downsize now. Is there any way you can make other arrangements for your moms care? You are sacrificing your own livelihood here.
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Essie,

Put your name on a list for low income apartments that are based on your income. There is usually a wait list so do it now. My cousin did that after her divorce. Also, apply for food stamps. Don’t get expensive things like cable tv.

Someone jump in and help me out here please. Can she get some other service like Hulu or Netflix on their own or amazon?

Grocery shop, don’t eat in restaurants. If you don’t mind me asking your age, can you get a part time job at least?
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gdaughter Oct 2019
Not a tech expert, and that's the catch, but yes there are many ways I understand to get the TV channels. If you have a library card you may be able to access consumer info via Consumer Reports from the library website and they are soon doing or recently did something on this cable stuff. They said how easily we are all being ripped off because intro rates (which may be irrelevant with Essie and mom living in an apt...they may not have a choice of provider or it might even be included?) don't include all you need to really enjoy it...and they said the way to avoid the fees: was to cancel cable.
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I would go to your Social Service Dept in your county. Explain your situation. You my be able to get SSI (Supplimental income) With this u maybe able to get Medicaid Health Insurance. This will include vision, prescriptions and dental. You may qualify for a housing voucher. You will only be required to pay 30% of ur total income. You can get help with electric. Office of aging may have resources u can use.
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Get a roommate.
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AlvaDeer Oct 2019
I always wonder, Betty, why more elders don't avail themselves of this option. Esp if it is two of a certain age, because as one can cook the other might enjoy cleaning. One can drive and the other cannot. And on you go.
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Ah, Essie...I see this is another relevant question from you...you stirred quite a response with your other question related to finances and funeral arrangements and I just did some research in the past couple hours...I sent you a private message but will share here at least one...that I hope might be of some help as far as final expenses...I learned quite a bit in fact, that my area, CLeveland was apparently the start of organizations that have spread across the country to protect consumers and help with the high costs of funerals. In our case it is called a Memorial Society and one becomes a member for a nominal amount which allows you to have access to basic funeral or cremation services. The Funeral Consumers' Alliance (FCA) has a website www.funerals.org that lists all of the organizations across the country. In your case it is the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Tidewater 757-428-5134. Your local Alzheimer's Assn may be an additional resource for other services and dthat is infoseva@alz.org, 800-272-3900. Hope this helps.
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AlvaDeer Oct 2019
This is so incredibly kind, and this is such valuable information. I kind of hope you will post the above information under funerals or somewhere with your own heading, gdaughter, as I often don't read comments thoroughly and this is information I want on file. You were kind enough to look this up, and it is all incredible information. Others might keep such info for future needs, as I do. Yesterday I was curious about Trust management after death and looked up how to fill out the online IRS form for the executor of a Trust. Out of all the youtube walkthroughs there was one with great info that had also how to avoid a common mistake. And I thought how much information I have learned here on agingcare Forum and how much I still have to learn. Thanks to you and all here who so often go the extra miles. Essie, start a notebook or file now with information for your future, and do get on housing list now.
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Your local office on aging (check in with city hall) or area agency on aging may have some resources and lists of subsidized housing and other services that may be of benefit to you. Some apartments in our area charge a percentage of your income so that would be of help one would think, to your being able to save some...if you get your name on the lists, you'll be closer to that goal than not having your name on the list and still paying out what you are...
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You need to find out what your income might be, realistically, and what assistance you might qualify for. The town or county where you live has social workers who can help you identify such assistance. Look in the telephone book. There is usually plenty of part-time work available in a community. Caregivers who need a respite break need people to come in and "Adult-sit" to allow them to leave home for a few hours. You could qualify for such work. Grocery stores need part-time workers to fill in at check-out stands or other tasks while full-time workers are taking leave. Can you do housework? Gardening? Day care assistance? The point of all this is to pull yourself together and get a plan of action to meet your upcoming situation, something you feel pretty sure you can do, and once you have that in your mind, you might find the emotional stress will fade away.
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I suggest getting on every list you can for senior apartments based on income, assuming you meet the age requirements. Can't tell how old you are from your post. The lists may seem long, but people drop off, move away, pass away, etc. so names do come up with an apartment available. There are such apartments for non-seniors also. Where I live (California) the phone company has a very low-cost phone for low-income people. The electric/gas company gives a discount to lower income people. As one of the other posters suggested, make the phone call to ask for a discount. Many companies have a "retention department," where discounts are handed out. They don't want to lose you as a customer, so they'll many times make adjustments. It never hurts to ask; all they can say is "no," and many times they figure out something.
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Given your previous question, I would move now. Find something for you and your mom that is cheaper. And yes, get your name onto every HUD housing list you can.
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I would say you should talk to the managers of the building you are living in.
There might be a discounted rent if you ask, or they might have a smaller apartment you could move into when the time comes.

It never hurts to ask questions.
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Essie, you always ask great questions, and this entire thread is full of a wealth of information. Start a file now (I use an old wine box for my bro's files) with things you need to know for the future. Label each file with ideas such as gdaughter's info on funeral costs. You are thinking ahead. That is going to help you. I love the savings ideas and I love the roommate ideas and I love the putting your name on a list for housing NOW while you are more able and head, and moving you, and mom if need be when you can.
Let us know when you find things out, because as you see below, there is information on this thread that any ONE of us may need in the future, and we can start our lists now.
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I'm looking at the same future. I can apply for SS, but at the lowest amount, I just turned 62. I care for mom & my uncle, I moved him into my old bedroom. I have my own home, their SS pays my bills, too. I drive every day to care for them. In the meantime, I'm looking for online work. My next step is to start selling some of her antique furniture & my uncle's property. They're destroying her things & it's not practical. EVERY day is a struggle, bills being my biggest issue. She wanted to talke about her burial plans, I choose cremation for myself, now mom has fears of being buried, she always had. So we're looking at selling her plot. Having a POA is critical, make sure it covers these decisions. Her Medicare & supplemental insurance has social workers that can come & advise you, but it's basically what I've told you. GET RID of her charities, especially if they come in person. (That's scary) My mom gets calendars & pens, greeting cards & little totes, but in the mail. And she no longer donates. There are SO many scams out there. Cut down on the budget & start saving for YOUR future if possible. Oh, & set up ALL of her bills online to keep a close eye on EVERYTHING! Autopay is a lifesaver! Check credit cards for hidden donations, too.
Maybe look into a less expensive rental, for your future needs, too.
Good luck!
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You should put your name on the wait list for senior housing now. If they call you and your mother is still alive she can live with you. Sometimes people get break and an opening occurs sooner than expected.
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It sounds like you are not being truthful with your self about what next steps will be.
Clearly you will need to move to a lower cost housing. Keep in mind the month your Mother dies is the month the checks stop. You should start planning now about what your going to do. This should include finding some sort of part time work NOW, so you are getting a check when she goes. The economy is very strong now, finding a job now is at its easiest it has been in our lifetime. It may not be that way when she dies. I know it will be difficult on your Mother, I suggest you start living today assuming your Mothers income is gone. That way when it hits you will not be dealing with your Mothers death and the loss of income.
Getting evicted from where you are? Unless the landlord is a family member that has ALREADY AGREED IN WRITING to let you stay you can be assured they will be pushing you out when the rent payments stop. You should be having a conversation NOW with your landlord to find out if they would have any flexibility. My guess is if they give you one month of flexibility you will be lucky.

It is NEVER TOO LATE to start planning for the future and either getting some financial habits or change bad financial habits. I always remember my Father in Law bought his first stock in the stock market when he was 70 years old. He bought 50 shares of Microsoft in 1989. That $2700 invested changed his retirement. If your not, start living on a budget. Spend LESS than you earn.
And one more thing., Make sure you teach your children so they learn from your mistakes.
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AlvaDeer Oct 2019
Lacy, I could be mistaken, but I think Essie cannot leave her Mom alone. Essie, is this true, or could you leave for even a part time job. Also consider something I have done. If you enjoy pets and can care for them in your home you can often make between 25.00 and 50.00 a day (the latter in my area) pet sitting in your home. Try to think out of the box all you are able. There are ways to make some funds, and tuck away a bit; you know the rainy day is coming, and you are THINKING ahead, and that is great.
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There was an article in AARP that was about the "Golden Girls" style of living becoming a necessity and needs are growing.
There are companies where, for example, a woman your age has a big home she lives in by herself. She is lonely and decides to find someone to share the house with. She signs up with a company and fills out her hobbies, lifestyle, her info to find someone with similar likes. Then you would fill out a form with the same. The company matches potential "roomates". If it seems like a match, you meet somewhere to see if you both would enjoy living together. I believe the homeowner pays the fee for the service, and you can have furnished or bring some of your own items. Some are pet friendly and it's for older people. Like age 40+. I would think about that. Just an option.
Another thought is asking the landlord if you can do work for him. Not a great thought, but you never know.
Best wishes to you.
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Move to my state and you won't have to wait for long for housing.  They are springing up like mushrooms around here and advertising for people to move in before the skeletons of the houses are even built!
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MAYDAY Oct 2019
what state is that? People are always looking for a place for mom.
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Start looking into your options now. It's better to do something for your future than to worry about it. Do you know a social worker you can speak with, perhaps through Social Security? Put your name on the lists now. Perhaps you can move to a senior residence with your mother if your name comes up while she is still alive. Try to put money away to cover a few months rent. Is Social Security paying you to be your mother's caregiver? You should also talk to them about this program. Ask for help. Talk to people and find out what your options are.
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Start looking for housing right now. If they do call you and you are still taking care of your mother you can explain the situation and they will keep you on the waiting list. That is exactly what I'm doing.
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Start now to look for a place. Senior housing apartments typically have a list. The one in my mother's town did.
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In my state, the Y offers a program called senior shared housing. Basically, the program assists with pairing of adults who have the air own home but are having difficulties with upkeep with an able bodied adult who can assist with those needs. The program is called senior shared housing. The Area Agency on Aging may have some suggestions as well.
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In New Orleans there is the Unity program. It’s housing designed for low income people. There are stipulations but qualifying people are eligible. Keep looking even if it means to relocate.

Look at the first pioneers. They traveled long distances in order to succeed.

Check all of your local resources for help. Best of luck to you.
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Essie, please look into programs. New Orleans certainly has its share of problems like any metro area.

But our UNITY program designed to house the homeless is working. If a family is living out of a car or in a shelter they have succeeded in housing them in 45 days or less. We are first in the nation for housing people that quickly.

How is that possible? We hired incredible grant writers who get HUD money. Many have taken advantage of this program. People with mental illness who are unable to work. People with physical disabilities. Single moms. Entire families. Single people. People with substance abuse issues. They have to stay clean or they get kicked out of the program but virtually anyone is eligible.

They do lots of community outreach. They have a UNITY warehouse that stores items for the homeless to take into their rental apartments.

Everyone in the city is asked to clean out closets, cabinets, etc. to donate items to them because it is all offered to the homeless. Items are dropped off to the warehouse. They will even pick up larger items like furniture from someone’s home.

They participate in community outreach with radio and television appearances to educate the public how they can help and make people aware of how devastating it is to be homeless. They explain how devastating it is to be on the streets, living out of a car or that even in shelters people are faced with anxiety and stress.

Arguments in shelters occasionally occur and the outcome is people end up dealing with low self esteem, depression, anxiety, lower grades for children in school and so forth.

We still have a homeless population but the numbers are going down. Less homeless people are on our streets now. Some of the people in the streets aren’t truly homeless. That happens. Panhandling is a side gig for them.

Also there is an opioid crisis and some are still struggling and not ready to seek help so they are out in the streets.

Anyway, please seek help from any charity that you can find. Our UNITY program started from United Way years ago. It has grown and continues to grow.

Sure, I can complain about issues in my city like anyone else who has legitimate complaints or concerns for their city but I truly am proud of the work that UNITY does and I do donate. Everyone can donate something.

Every house has things that are no longer used. These people need everything in a new apartment. Let them have it.

Some people need help for a lifetime because of a disability and UNITY is paying for it. Others just need help to get over a hump. I am glad we are making strides in this area. There is help. Keep looking.

One problem that UNITY does speak about and it’s common all over is that there is a shortage of low income rental property so they are constantly seeking out landlords to negotiate with in order to be able to continue to subsidize rent money. Of course they are always seeking more and more grant money.
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