Rising costs and a lack of public subsidies have made assisted living facilities expensive. According to the Older Women’s League, costs have increased 15 percent since 2006. The average base price of an assisted living unit is now $2,905 monthly, while nursing home care costs about $192 daily with an average length of stay of two and a half years.

Cost Savings Benefit

You will realize significant cost savings with home modifications compared to moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. For example, for easy access in and out of your home, a small ramp can cost about $2,500. Bathroom remodeling may cost you about $6,000. That $8,500 you spend can keep you in your home for the rest of your life. That same $8,500 will only get you less than three months at an assisted living facility and only 44 days in a nursing home.

Paying For Home Modifications

While most customers pay for home modifications out-of-pocket, we understand that cost may be a concern. However, a few programs offer loans or provide services free of charge or at reduced rate for those who qualify. Below are some resources that may be able to help you.

Funding Resources

• Area Agency on Aging
  Some Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) use funds from the Older Americans Act Title III to modify homes. Contact your local AAA to find out if programs are available in your area. To locate the nearest AAA, call 800.677.1116.
• Department of Veterans Affairs
  Veterans with disabilities should contact their service officer to determine how much modification the VA will pay. Call 800. 827.1000.
• Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Program
  This federal program provides help for homeowners with moderate incomes to buy, build, improve, repair or rehabilitate rural homes. Call 202.720.4323 for information.
• Independent Living Centers
  These centers provide information and referrals on how to get funding in your area. For the one nearest you, contact the National Council on Independent Living Centers at 703.525.3406 (V); 703.524.3407 (TDD).
• Medicare and Medicaid
  Medicare and Medicaid will pay for medically necessary durable medical equipment as prescribed by a doctor. Call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at 410.786.3000. Some private health insurance and long term care insurance plans also pay for limited home modifications. Check with your insurance provider.
• Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)
  In the state of Pennsylvania, PATF provides low interest loans for seniors who need funding assistance. For those items costing $1,000-$65,000, there is a four-percent interest loan available for those who qualify. Since PATF began, over 680 loans totaling approximately $12 million have been made to Pennsylvania seniors. Call 888.744.1938 (voice/toll-free/TTY).
• Reverse Mortgages
  A reverse mortgage enables seniors or persons with disabilities to convert part of the equity in their homes into tax-free income without having to sell the home or take on a new monthly mortgage payment. Free counseling is available from a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Call 888.466.3487.
• Tax Savings
  Tax deductions are allowed for certain modifications such as installation of ramps, widening doorways, modifying kitchen cabinets and equipment, etc. Check with your accountant for details.