What government services provide money for senior housing?

Several government programs offer financial assistance for senior housing in various countries, focusing on the United States for a broad overview: Medicaid: Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that can cover the costs of nursing home care for those who meet eligibility criteria, including income and asset limits. Some states also offer Medicaid waivers that help pay for home and community-based services to prevent or delay nursing home placement. Medicare: Medicare, primarily a health insurance program for people aged 65 and over, does not cover long-term housing costs. However, it can cover short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility under specific conditions following a hospital stay. Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program: This program provides housing for low-income seniors. It offers rental assistance and access to supportive services, such as cleaning, cooking, and transportation. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties: While not a direct subsidy, LIHTC encourages developers to create affordable housing. Seniors with low incomes can find reduced-rent apartments through this program. State and Local Programs: Many states, counties, and cities offer their own programs to assist seniors with housing costs. These can include property tax relief programs, rental assistance programs, and programs that offer affordable senior housing options. Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers several programs for veterans, including the Aid and Attendance benefit, which provides monthly payments to veterans who require the aid of another person, or are housebound, to help cover the cost of care in homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Social Security: While Social Security primarily provides retirement income, for many seniors, these benefits are a crucial part of their budget, including housing costs.

How do you pick the homes you recommend?

Before recommending homes, we conduct a thorough evaluation on crucial factors that define a senior home such as the quality of care they provide, the reputation of the organization, and a comprehensive review of community testimonials as well. Every detail is assessed to assure that seniors are offered not just senior care options, but trustworthy homes where they can experience the care that they deserve.

Do you help families that need Medicaid?

Yes. Assisting families who need Medicaid is important to us as it plays a crucial role in offering financial support to seniors confronting economic challenges. We would like to keep essential healthcare services accessible to all community members, irrespective of one’s financial circumstances.

How much does this service cost?

We extend our services at no cost, ensuring that families and seniors can benefit from tailored assistance in their search for care and home options. Our ability to offer personalized guidance without charge to families and seniors is made possible through the support and funding from the communities with which we team up.

What services do you offer?

Finding and ranking the best assisted living facilities Finding and ranking the best nursing homes Finding and ranking the best memory care facilities Our concierge service helps seniors move into the perfect home for them Helping seniors use medicare, medicaid, and other government programs to pay for their homes Helping seniors avoid senior homes that have bad service or fraud Helping seniors avoid senior homes that have bad service or fraud Autobiography & Family History Writing + Research Senior-focused concierge medicine Senior-focused nutritionist Senior-focused personal training Memory care specialists Custom wheelchairs at all price points. Custom hearing aids Cosmetic skincare + dermatology Companionship: We offer in-person and virtual companionship services. Someone engaging to hang out with or talk to on video chat. Senior housing concierge. Our service finds the best senior living options based on your needs, income, and personality.

Kawabe Memorial House | Seattle, WA | Photos & Videos

Overview of Kawabe Memorial House

Welcome to Kawabe Memorial House, a thriving senior community established in 1969 by the descendants of Harry S. Kawabe. With a mission to provide secure and affordable housing for first-generation immigrant seniors, this ten-story building houses 174 residents, averaging 76 years of age. Located east of Seattle’s International District, the apartments offer stunning views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and the Cascades and Olympic Mountains. Kawabe Memorial House operates as a private non-profit organization, governed by a corporate Board of Directors.

Beyond independent living, the community provides a range of culturally sensitive services, including translation assistance in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, and group recreational outings. Residents can partake in Tai Chi classes, bingo, and Shigin (Japanese singing). Moreover, the Asian menu inspired lunch program, which serves an average of 65 people daily, welcomes both residents and community members aged 60 and above, with menus translated into multiple languages. Kawabe Memorial House exemplifies the power of community involvement, as residents actively contribute to special projects. They raised $10,000 through bake sales and rummage sales for a garden restoration initiative. Additionally, an Arts grant facilitated the creation of sixteen postcards designed by an artist, showcasing residents’ life stories and translated captions in various languages. As part of the same project, residents recorded their narratives in their native languages, creating a captivating listening station within the premises. At Kawabe Memorial House, seniors find not only a safe and affordable place to live but also a close-knit community that cherishes their diverse backgrounds and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.

(206) 322-4550

Managed by Emiko (Emi) Mizuki

Executive Director

Emiko (Emi) Mizuki serves as the Executive Director of Kawabe Memorial House, leading the community with dedication and care. She oversees operations and ensures a supportive environment for residents and staff alike.

Walk Score: 94 / 100

Walker's paradise. Daily errands do not require a car, with many shops and services nearby.

About this community

Additional licensing details

Accreditations: Aging Services of Washington, Affordable Housing Management Association of Washington

Safety & Compliance

Care Services

Independent Living

All Levels of Care

Independent Living

Additional Policies & Features

Minimum Age: 62

Programs & Activities

Specific Programs

Calligraphy, flower arranging, bingo, birthday parties, shigin (Japanese singing), computer center, Asian inspired lunch program, community classes and activities.

Dining & Nutrition

Food Description

Asian inspired lunch program five days a week with menus translated into English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.

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Type of care: IL

Community: Seattle (Central District)

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Type of care: IL

Community: Seattle (High Point)

221 18th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144

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Community Options Program Entry System (COPES)

WA Medicaid COPES

General: Age 65+ or disabled, Washington resident, Medicaid-eligible, nursing home-level care need.

Income Limits (2025): ~$2,829/month (300% FBR, individual).

Asset Limits: $2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple).

WA Specifics: High demand in urban areas (e.g., Seattle).

Washington Family Caregiver Support Program

WA NFCSP

General: Caregiver of someone 60+ (or with dementia), Washington resident.

Income Limits: No strict limit; prioritizes low-income.

Asset Limits: Not applicable.

WA Specifics: High urban demand; rural outreach.

Community First Choice (CFC)

Washington Community First Choice

General: Age 65+ (or disabled 18+), WA resident, Medicaid-eligible, need help with 2+ ADLs/IADLs.

Income Limits (2025): ~$2,829/month; QIT optional.

Asset Limits: $2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple).

WA Specifics: Broader than COPES; serves ~20,000; self-directed option.

Older Americans Act (OAA) Services

Washington OAA Services

General: Age 60+, WA resident; no income/asset limits.

Income Limits (2025): None; donations encouraged.

Asset Limits: Not assessed.

WA Specifics: 13 AAAs; includes Meals on Wheels; rural focus.

Medicare Savings Program (MSP)

Washington Medicare Savings Program

General: Age 65+ or disabled, WA resident, Medicare Part A/B.

Income Limits (2025): ~$2,510/month (QMB), ~$3,380/month (SLMB), ~$3,598/month (QI)—individual.

Asset Limits: $9,430 (individual), $14,130 (couple).

WA Specifics: Includes Extra Help for Part D; no waitlist.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Washington LIHEAP

General: Age 60+ prioritized, WA resident, low-income household.

Income Limits (2025): ~$3,970/month (185% FPL).

Asset Limits: Not assessed.

WA Specifics: Covers gas, electric, wood; emergency aid available.

Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)

Washington SCSEP

General: Age 55+, unemployed, low-income, WA resident.

Income Limits (2025): ~$1,983/month (125% FPL).

Asset Limits: Not specified.

WA Specifics: Priority for veterans, rural residents; AARP partnership.

VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) and Housebound Benefits

Washington VA Aid and Attendance/Housebound

General: Age 65+ or disabled veteran/spouse, WA resident, wartime service, ADL help (A&A) or homebound.

Income Limits (2025): Net income < ~$1,984/month (veteran with dependent, A&A); pension offsets income.

Asset Limits: ~$155,356 (net worth).

WA Specifics: High veteran use; supports rural/urban needs.

Senior Citizens Property Tax Exemption

Washington Senior Property Tax Exemption

General: Age 61+ or disabled retiree, WA resident, homeowner, income-based.

Income Limits (2025): ~$45,000-$70,000/year (varies by county, e.g., King: $70,000).

Asset Limits: Not assessed; home value cap varies (~$250,000-$400,000).

WA Specifics: Saves ~$500-$1,500/year; offered statewide.

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Washington SFMNP

General: Age 60+, WA resident, low-income.

Income Limits (2025): ~$2,322/month (185% FPL).

Asset Limits: Not assessed.

WA Specifics: Vouchers (~$80/season); serves ~20,000 via AAAs.

Kawabe Memorial House