7 Home Repair Assistance Options for the Elderly

Carrying out home projects on a fixed income can be difficult, which is one of the reasons so many seniors let their homes fall into disrepair. Neglecting relatively minor maintenance issues could result in expensive problems down the road. Here’s a quick look at seven financing options and assistance programs that can help seniors repair and upgrade their homes. 

 

1. Insurance

Before taking a look at assistance programs, aging homeowners might want to contact their home insurance providers. While home insurance policies won’t cover most upgrades, they might pay for common repairs. Seniors who have home warranties should look over those documents as well. Every home warranty is slightly different, but those policies usually cover HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, electrical systems, and roofs. 

Seniors who have insurance policies for long-term care may be able to get home repairs under this type of coverage, allowing them to continue to live at home with support from family and professional caregivers. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Miami, FL, Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.

 

2. Area Agencies on Aging

These agencies were established by an amendment to the Older Americans Act of 1965, and there are over 600 locations throughout the country. The primary goal of Area Agencies on Aging is to connect seniors to community-based services so they can age in place. After contacting one of these agencies, seniors have access to a myriad of services, including case management, local referrals, meal delivery programs, and transportation assistance. 

 

3. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Seniors with skyrocketing energy bills should consider applying for LIHEAP. This program was designed to help low-income individuals weatherize their homes to reduce their monthly expenses. As long as seniors meet the income requirements, this program should cover heating and cooling expenses, weatherization, and energy-related repairs. 

 

4. Medicare & Medicaid

While these two programs won’t pay for most home projects, they might help your loved one acquire some medical equipment for his or her home, including safety devices such as grab bars, toilet safety frames, and bathroom transfer benches. The easiest way to apply for these programs is to head to the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, but seniors can also book appointments at local SSA offices.

An in-home caregiver can offer you peace of mind by providing an added level of safety for your loved one. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care service seniors can trust and rely on.

 

5. Local Contractor Discounts

If your loved one doesn’t meet the requirements for some of these other programs but still needs financial assistance, contact local contractors directly. Many private companies offer discounted services to older adults who are on fixed incomes. Some even have sliding scales for their prices, depending on the total income for the household. 

 

6. Rebuild Together

Rebuild Together is an affiliate network that carries out over 10,000 home repairs and renovations every year. This nonprofit organization helps low-income families pay for a wide array of projects, including critical repairs and efficiency upgrades. While this organization was founded in Texas, it now has offices throughout the country. 

 

7. Section 504 Home Repair Program

A few years ago, the U.S. Department of Agriculture began funding the 504 Home Repair program. This program offers a variety of grants and loans to low-income individuals who want to modernize or repair their homes. The loans can also be used to remove health and safety hazards such as asbestos and black mold. 

Home repair is just one activity that becomes more difficult for seniors to manage in the golden years. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care. Miami Beach families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today to learn more about our customized care plans.