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What Should I Consider If and When I Move? <br />When you are ready to make a move keep in mind how your needs may change over time, in the event <br />of illness or disability. Will the senior housing option you are considering be able to accommodate <br />these changing needs, and if so, how and at what cost? Some communities do not offer services on- <br />site but services can be provided by outside home care agencies of your choosing. Other communities <br />provide amenities and services as a package (or a menu of packages) included with the base rent, <br />while others offer "a la carte" services for additional fees or on an "as needed" basis. <br />Because the base rent charged by a senior housing facility may or may not include all the services and <br />amenities offered on-site, it is very important to clarify what is included in the rent and what is extra, <br />and how the additional fees are calculated. You can then more accurately compare different senior <br />housing communities. You should also specifically request the Uniform Consumer Information Guide <br />from each housing with services facility to help you to compare costs. <br />As a general rule, be sure to read all documents, contracts or leases provided and make sure you <br />understand them prior to signing anything. Bring a friend or family advocate along with you in your <br />search, and especially when you are reviewing contracts or signing a lease. <br />There are specialized service providers available to help with the transition to senior housing. These <br />can include a variety of services that help you find the best housing to fit your needs; help you to <br />organize, downsize, and prepare for a move; assist with the move and even help settle you into your <br />new home. The Senior Linkage Line, MinnesotaHelp.info, and the White Bear Area Senior Program <br />can help connect you to these services, and are found in the "Resources" section of this guide. When <br />calling or searching online: ask for local "senior move managers", "senior housing advisors", or "senior <br />placement assistance", as well as realtors, movers, or others that specialize in assisting seniors with a <br />move. <br />Definition of Terms <br />HOUSING TYPES <br />• Aging in Place: Continuing to live in the home of your choice by bringing in home and community- <br />based services to provide support as needs change. <br />• Independent Living: Apartments, cottages, or townhomes, for residents aged 55+ (some 62+) with <br />minimal services provided as part of the base rent or monthly fee. <br />• Independent Living Plus: Offers residents 3 or more services included in the base rent. <br />• Assisted Living: Provides an array of services to assist with activities of daily living. Communities <br />in Minnesota providing assisted living must register with the Department of Health and provide a <br />minimum service package as part of the base rent. The specific services offered vary from site to site. <br />• Memory Care: A secure living environment that offers programs and services to better serve the <br />needs of those with a memory impairment or dementia diagnosis (such as Alzheimer's Disease). <br />Some communities also offer Companion Care for couples needing different levels of care. <br />SENIOR HOUSING <br />