So this post is linked to the previous one. While in this, I would like to talk about one interesting aid that I found on the web that helps the elderly in San Diego.
In San Diego, there is a non-profit organisation called ElderHelp that have a lot of on going programs that allow the elderly to lead a more sustainable and happier life. One of the program is called HomeShare.
So, what exactly is HomeShare?
HomeShare is a program that allows elderly to remain in their homes and in the communities they know and love by offering adults of all age, who are in need of housing, to live with the elderly. These ensure that the elderly will be safe as there is more than one person in the home and provides companionship for the elderly. It also acts as an additional income for home providers and affordable rent for home seekers. (HomeShare, 2013)
However, there are also criteria and requirements for one to be eligible for rental. This will ensure that they people coming on board to stay with the elderly are of suitable match. It is very much like renting in Singapore. The agency, which in this case, ElderHelp, will help the adults to look for a home that matches their criteria. After finding a match, they will meet up with the home providers and discuss more in details.
The result of this program is stated as a success in the press release of ElderHelp. ElderHelp state that nearly 2000 people received housing consultation. 50 matches were successfully facilitated, all involving a senior 55 years and older. Each match has an economic or service benefit to the senior through room rentals and service exchange arrangements. 100% of all matches involved at least one person of low, very low, or extremely low income. The average length of matches is steadily increasing, currently to 1.5 years, and many far exceeding this number. (HomeShare, 2013)
So why can't this be done in Singapore? I will share more about my opinions about this in the next post.
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