San Rafael, CA – Finding housing in expensive Marin County is a challenge in its own rite, but hunting for a place for an aging parent who requires daily assistance can be confusing and frustrating. The Marin County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recognizes that and offers support through its Live Long and Live Well outreach campaign.
Choices for Living is the premiere directory to help families and older adults explore housing options in Marin, and it has received an update. You can pick up a free copy of the guide at the annual Marin Senior Information Fair on October 26. The fair takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael.
Choices begins with information about care at home, housing assistance and independent living options, and progresses to assisted living, board and care residences and skilled nursing facilities. Wait lists are common, and people are urged to place their name on the list if applications are being accepted.
Why is there such a need for such a guide? In Marin, one of every four residents is over age 60, and in just 15 years that number is estimated to rise to one in three. Marin is one of the oldest counties in the state – both in terms of when it was founded (upon statehood in 1850) and in its growing older adult population (expected to be one in three by 2020).
“Just like a building needs a solid foundation and good construction materials, our community well-being depends on resources like Choices and other human services,” said Lee Pullen, Director of Marin HHS’ Aging and Adult Services Division. “Choices for Living is the only guide that presents the full array of housing options and community sources to allow ‘aging in place’ in Marin County all in one place.”
Anyone considering housing choices for themselves or a parent needs to calculate a monthly budget, decide on a desired lifestyle and location, and assess current health and level of independence. Some seniors can live independently at home with little or no outside assistance, but others require more help as their needs change over time. There comes a time when it might mean living in alternative housing in which meals, personal care, housekeeping services, and social activities are provided. All those are factors when starting the hunt for a new home, and all those are addressed in the Choices guide.
The County not only provides this comprehensive directory, but also has social workers who can help someone figure out what type of housing is right for them by calling County’s Information and Assistance line, 415-457-INFO.
Learn more about housing and other services for older adults in Marin at
www.livelonglivewellmarin.org.