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.

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Resident interviews at our senior living facilities

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The Bernardine | Syracuse, NY | Photos & Videos

Overview of The Bernardine

The Bernardine is a remarkable residential assisted living haven nestled in Syracuse, New York, surrounded by a friendly neighborhood community brimming with character. This 23-story building offers not just living spaces, but stunning views and serene outdoor seating areas that provide a respite from urban living. The Bernardine presents a choice of spacious one-bedroom and studio apartments, tailored to individual preferences and needs.
Amidst landscaped courtyards and convenient hair salons, The Bernardine adds an extra touch of convenience and elegance. Local grocery stores nearby ensure everyday necessities are easily accessible. Housekeeping and personal care assistance are thoughtfully provided, fostering a seamless and comfortable lifestyle. Beyond exceptional dining services and 24/7 nursing care, residents can find reassurance through personalized safety checks. Embracing a holistic approach, The Bernardine even assists in scheduling medical appointments and transportation, reflecting its commitment to being more than just an assisted living near you—it’s a dynamic community catering to evolving needs. With an eye toward versatility, The Bernardine embraces the essence of independent living apartments.

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What families are saying

Quality of care and staff professionalism

Mixed sentiments about staff professionalism and conduct, with some residents experiencing inappropriate actions such as unauthorized apartment entry, while others find the staff generally decent.

Care & staff

Cleanliness, hygiene, and facility upkeep

The facility offers clean, remodeled, and subsidized assisted living accommodations, making it a suitable option for Medicaid recipients despite not being high-end.

Cleanliness

Home Information The Bernardine

Community Stability & Environment

Walk Score Walk Score in senior living communities measures how easy it is for residents to access essential services and amenities—like grocery stores, parks, pharmacies, and transit—without needing a car. 60 / 100 Somewhat Walkable
Some errands can be done on foot. Walkable to several amenities, but not all. Sidewalks usually available but may be inconsistent. Car often needed for larger errands or longer distances.

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Senior Community!

Connect, laugh, and explore — all from the comfort of your home.

Daily Trivia Games

Test your knowledge, have fun, and win friendly bragging rights.

Shared Hobbies & Projects

Team up with others who love gardening, crafts, photography, and writing.

Birthday Celebrations

We honor our members with live shoutouts, music, and cheerful messages.

Story Circles

Share your life stories, lessons, and laughter with friends who truly listen.

Memory Match Mondays

Boost your brain with fun, interactive memory games.

Travel Time Machine

Take virtual tours through Rome, Paris, or America's most beautiful national parks.

Magic Nights

Enjoy weekly live magic shows that surprise and delight.

Pen Pal Connections

Make new friends across the country through letters, stories, and shared memories.

Golden Hour Music Sessions

Sing along to timeless favorites with live performers and themed playlists.

Garden & Nature Club

Watch live garden tours, swap growing tips, and share photos of your blooms.

Gentle Movement & Meditation

Stretch, breathe, and feel good with calming live sessions.

Tech Help Tuesdays

Get hands-on guidance for Zoom, email, or smartphones — no judgment, no stress.

Guides for Better Senior Living

From costs to care, explore the most important topics to make informed decisions about your future.

Guides for Better Senior Living

From costs to care, explore the most important topics to make informed decisions about your future.

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Comparison Chart

Compare Assisted Living around Syracuse

The Bernardine

Brookdale Liverpool

Liverpool

Yes

Brookdale East Side

Fayetteville

Brookdale Bellevue

Syracuse

Yes

Sedgwick Heights

The Bernardine

Type of care: AL

Pets Allowed: No

Rate Range: -

Brookdale Liverpool

Type of care: AL

Community: Liverpool

Bed Count: 80

Pets Allowed: Yes

Rate Range: -

Brookdale East Side

Type of care: AL

Community: Fayetteville

Bed Count: 86

Pets Allowed: No

Rate Range: -

Brookdale Bellevue

Type of care: AL

Community: Syracuse

Bed Count: 91

Pets Allowed: Yes

Rate Range: -

Sedgwick Heights

Type of care: AL

Pets Allowed: No

Rate Range: -

Claim What’s Yours: Financial Aid for New York Seniors

Program

State Program Name

Eligibility

Benefits

Community First Choice Option

NY Medicaid CFCO

General: Age 65+ or disabled, New York resident, Medicaid- eligible, care need (not necessarily nursing home level).
Income Limits (2025): ~$2,829/month (300% FBR, individual).
Asset Limits: $30,182 (individual, higher due to NY Medicaid expansion).
NY Specifics: Higher asset limit; urban density increases demand.

Services: Personal care (5-7 hours/day), respite care (240 hours/year), home modifications ($1,500 avg.), assistive technology ($500 avg.).

Expanded In-Home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP)

NY EISEP

Official government program page

General: Age 60+, New York resident, at risk of decline but not nursing home level.
Income Limits: ~$2,500/month (individual, varies).
Asset Limits: $15,000 (individual).
NY Specifics: Cost-sharing required above certain income; urban/rural balance.

Services: In-home care (3-5 hours/week), respite (up to 10 days/year), case management, transportation (~5 trips/month).

Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE)

NY SCRIE

Official government program page

General: Age 62+, NYC resident, live in rent-controlled/stabilized apartment, spend >1/3 of income on rent.
Income Limits (2025): $50,000/year (household).
Asset Limits: No strict asset cap, but income-focused eligibility.
NY Specifics: Limited to NYC’s rent-regulated units; high demand in urban areas.

Services: Rent freeze (e.g., covers increases of $50-$200+/month); tax credit for landlord.

Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption (SCHE)

NY SCHE

Official government program page

General: Age 65+, NYC resident, own and live in a 1-3 family home, co-op, or condo.
Income Limits (2025): $58,399/year (household).
Asset Limits: No strict asset cap, income-driven eligibility.
NY Specifics: Applies only in NYC; excludes large apartment buildings.

Services: Property tax reduction (5-50%, e.g., $500-$5,000/year based on income and property value).

New York Foundation for Senior Citizens (NYFSC) Home Sharing Program

NYFSC Home Sharing

General: One participant must be 60+ (host or guest), NYC resident, able to share living space.
Income Limits: No strict limit, but targets those needing cost relief.
Asset Limits: Not applicable; focus on housing need.
NY Specifics: Primarily NYC-focused; limited slots due to demand.

Services: Shared housing (reduces rent/living costs by 30-50%, e.g., $500-$1,000/month savings); optional light assistance between housemates.

Claim What’s Yours Financial Aid for New York Seniors

NY Medicaid CFCO