Housing Options for Seniors
To determine what the best housing option is for your needs, review options for seniors, including:
Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidies
The Department of Aging Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidy Program (SALGHS) provides monthly financial assistance to eligible County residents. For low and moderate income seniors, the program provides access to assisted living in small group homes which are licensed by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for four to 16 residents.
The Group Home subsidies are paid on behalf of eligible residents who are unable to afford the cost of assisted living and might otherwise be in nursing facilities. The subsidy supports the cost of services provided in assisted living, including meals, personal care and 24-hour supervision for elderly residents who are frail and unable to live independently.
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the SALGHS Program:
- The applicant must be a Baltimore County resident (other counties are also offering this program).
- The applicant must require personal care assistance and complete a Functional Assessment to determine level of care.
- Monthly income cannot exceed $2,904 for an individual or $3,797 for a couple. Assets cannot exceed $11,000 for an individual or $14,000 for a couple.
- The applicant must be at least 62 years of age and a resident in a facility or approved for entrance into a facility that has entered into a service agreement with the Department of Aging.
To obtain the SALGHS application or to learn more about eligibility, call the Department of Aging Housing Office at 410-887-4632 or Maryland Access Point at 410-887-2594.
Accessible Homes for Seniors
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in partnership with the Maryland Department of Aging has undertaken a pilot project to promote accessibility-related improvements to the homes of seniors. These improvements may include, among others, the installation of grab bars and railings, widening of doorways and installation of ramps. For many older people, home improvements represent the key to remaining in their home and maintaining their independence.
- The program provides deferred loans at zero percent interest for a term of 30 years.
- The loans will be up to 85 percent of the value of the property.
- Loans must be repaid upon sale, transfer or refinancing of the property.
- All closing costs will be included in the loan.
- The applicant must be a Baltimore County resident (other counties are also offering this program).
- At least one resident of the home must be age 55 or older.
- The applicant must own and occupy the home to be renovated.
- The home to be renovated must be structurally sound and free of health and safety hazards.
- There must be no outstanding federal or state tax liens, open bankruptcy or foreclosure.
- The household income must meet requirements. The income must be less than $45,976 for one person, less than $52,544 for two people or less than $59,112 for three people.
- If the senior resides in the home of a relative, eligibility is based on the owner's income. Eligibility will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Call Senior Information and Assistance at 410-887-2594.