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What Is Considered Low Income for Seniors in Georgia?
Date Updated: November 25, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Senior housing based on income in Georgia and other assistance is available to older residents of the Peach State. What is considered low income in Georgia? The state defines "low-income seniors" as those with a yearly income of no more than $15,060 for a family of one. This amount aligns with Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines.
The poverty level increases depending on the number of individuals who live within the home. Poverty guidelines change each year depending on income and the average cost of food and are consistent across all continental states.
Income vs. Cost of Living Rates
When choosing a place to retire, low-income seniors may find it beneficial to explore cost of living rates throughout the state. Seniors with incomes within the FPL guidelines may find it difficult to make ends meet in areas with a high cost of living. The average cost of living in Georgia is $43,482 per year.
In the northwest corner of the state's Rome, the cost of living is 14.2% lower than the state average, while in Columbus, the cost of living is almost 18% less. You may find these cities to provide affordable retirement communities in Georgia in these cities, along with more suburban and rural settings.
State Benefits for Low-Income Seniors
Low-income seniors in Georgia can receive state benefits to pay for residential and in-home care, including assisted living and nursing homes. One benefit is the Community Care Services Program, which operates under the Elderly and Disabled Waiver. This waiver pays for personal care services for seniors at home and in community settings, including meals, adult day health, case management, home health care, and activities of daily living.
The Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment program may help pay for long-term health services in a person's home or other locations such as memory care facilities.