2008 Housing Resource Guide
Area Senior Housing Options & Related Services

The number of choices available to today’s senior when it comes to housing is truly remarkable. From the amenities and social draw of independent living communities to the peace of mind that comes with continuum of care campuses, the market continues to respond to the needs and desires of mature residents. Of course, sometimes all that choice can be daunting. This guide can help you begin the process of exploring what the Twin Cities area has to offer, as well as provide resources for more in depth research. You will find each facility listed under its primary category of Independent Living, Assisted Living, Subsidized Housing, Skilled Nursing, Adult Day Care, Memory Care or Hospice/Home Care as defined below. If additional services are offered by the facility, they are shown as a two-letter code at the end of the listing. A directory of useful housing related services and websites, both national and local, can be found at the end of the guide.

Independent Living (IL)
Also referred to as Active Adult, these residences or communities are for seniors who are able to live on their own. They may be single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, co-ops to own or apartments available to rent at market rates or below. Some residences or communities may be designated exclusively for seniors age 55+ and may offer amenities such as exercise facilities, shared social space, activities, housekeeping or meals.

Assisted Living (AL)
Assisted Living is characterized by abundant services in a private, homelike setting. Services may include: meals, transportation, social activities, medication management and personal care assistance.

Subsidized Housing (SH)
Subsidized rentals offer affordable rents to seniors who qualify. Generally residents pay approximately 30% of their income for rent. Financial assistance is available. Units may be privately subsidized or be owned and operated by the city as public housing. Most of these units have waiting lists and applicants may be on more than one list at a time.

Skilled Nursing/Care Centers (SN)
Skilled Nursing facilities, also known as Care Centers or Nursing Homes, are for seniors who require continuous assistance for daily activities and ongoing skilled nursing care in a single setting.

Memory Care (MC)
Memory, Dementia or Alzheimer's Care facilities offer a setting designed for seniors with memory issues along with a staff trained to deal specifically with their special needs.

Adult Day Care (AD)
Day programs are for persons who may be unsafe spending the day alone, may require assistance in managing health services or may be lonely or isolated. These part time programs also allow caregivers to take a break. Transportation may be provided.

Hospice/Home Care (HH)
Resources for hospice services and facilities for end-of-life care and/or home care for supporting seniors who wish to remain in their homes.

Respite Care(RC)
Site offers short-term care to provide respite for fulltime caregivers.

Local Services

Financial/Real Estate

National Services

Inclusion in this guide does not imply endorsement by Best of Times.

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