Senior Housing Plan B Checklist
Here’s a “Senior Housing Plan B Checklist” — a comprehensive backup plan in case your primary aging or housing plan doesn’t work out (e.g., aging in place becomes unsafe, or family caregivers can no longer help).
✅ Senior Housing Plan B Checklist
🧭 1. Identify the Trigger Points
Know when to implement Plan B:
- Sudden or gradual decline in health or mobility
- Cognitive decline (e.g., dementia, memory loss)
- Caregiver burnout or absence
- Home no longer safe or accessible
- Financial situation changes
- Isolation or mental health concerns
🏠 2. Evaluate Housing Options
Research and shortlist alternatives:
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Memory Care Communities
- Skilled Nursing Facilities (Nursing Homes)
- Independent Senior Living Communities
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
- Affordable Senior Housing (HUD or local programs)
- Respite care or short-term stays for emergencies
💸 3. Financial Readiness
Ensure affordability of Plan B:
- Review long-term care insurance (if applicable)
- Calculate monthly costs for Plan B options
- Explore Medicaid eligibility and application process
- Assess VA benefits (if a veteran or surviving spouse)
- Consider selling or renting current home
- Meet with a financial planner or eldercare advisor
📄 4. Legal & Medical Documents
Have the following ready and updated:
- Power of Attorney (financial and medical)
- Advance Directive / Living Will
- Healthcare Proxy
- Will or Trust
- List of medications and medical history
- Health insurance and Medicare/Medicaid cards
👨👩👧👦 5. Family Communication Plan
Keep everyone informed and on the same page:
- Discuss Plan B with family and caregivers
- Assign primary contact(s) or advocate(s)
- Share copies of critical documents
- Set expectations for roles/responsibilities
- Make a written care plan and update annually
🧰 6. Emergency Readiness
In case a rapid move is needed:
- Keep a “Go Binder” with all vital documents
- Have an emergency bag packed (clothes, toiletries, meds)
- Identify temporary respite or short-term care options
- Maintain a current list of preferred facilities
- Arrange transport options in advance (family, ambulance, etc.)
🧑💼 7. Professional Support Network
Gather your support team:
- Geriatric care manager or social worker
- Elder law attorney
- Primary care physician and specialists
- Financial advisor or Medicaid planner
- Real estate agent (if selling home)