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Homeshare is designed to help older adults in the Madison area continue to live independently. The program matches younger working adults and students with older or disabled individuals. In exchange for free or reduced rent, the homeseeker provides the homeowner with assistance, such as cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, meal preparation, transportation, and lawn care. Each home share varies, depending on the needs of the individuals, but nearly all home share situations prove to be mutually rewarding and beneficial.
Both the homesharer and the homeseeker must be flexible, able to communicate effectively, and willing to agree upon expectations for the match. The homesharer must have adequate space for another person and be able to manage his or her own personal care needs (not looking for full-time or attendant care). The homeseeker needs to be responsible, available, motivated and able to connect well with older or disabled adults.
Screening Process. Matching homesharer and homeseeker requires careful work by the program staff, who interview and screen all applicants by checking references and completing a background check. Matches are based on services, location and compatability. The homesharer and the homeseeker meet to get to know each other and talk about their respective needs and expectations. They then begin with a trial live-in period of a week or two. If they choose to live together, the program staff draws up a service agreement, outlining expectations and responsibilites, which is signed by the homesharer and homeseeker. Periodic follow-up is provided by Independent Living staff for the duration of the homesharing arrangement.
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Independent Living, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization serving all persons without regard to race,
color, religion, gender, national origin, familial status, disability, or any other class protected by law.