My father is 85 years old and on very limited income. His old air conditioner's compressor went out and is apparently unrepairable. Are there any programs that may help him get a replacement? (he is also a vet) It's been very hot in the Westminster area and I'm very worried about him.
Use the equity from the house to rent in senior apartments, that way the elder can be around people of their own generation. Thus no more worry about home maintenance, climbing ladders [we have our share of 90 year old cleaning gutters], paying property taxes, homeowner insurance, water bills, etc.
Just a suggestion.
I know many seniors refuse to move from their homes. I was very lucky my Dad at 94 decided he could no longer maintain his home, so he moved into Independent Living and loved it there :)
And as Dadscaregiver writes, some localities have assistance. Our community used to get HUD funds for emergency repairs.
In the meantime, get a good box fan and a smaller fan; you can also buy smaller dehumidifiers as that aspect is just as important as cooling the air.
Another alternative until you find assistance is the mobile home's position. Perhaps he can move to another lot which would allow for the home to be positioned not broadside to the sun, but in a manner that the sun hits less areas of the mobile home. Portable awnings are another option, if you can afford that for him. My father installed one for his garage; I don't know how costly they would be for a motor home, but they could deflect the sun.
Or put up trellises or arbors and plant climbing vines; they'll help block the sun.
freqflyer, my father lives in a small coach (mobile home) in a senior community and is very active. I appreciate your advice, but moving just isn't an option for many reasons.
Then contact your local VA and get information on how to apply for assistance, or contact one of the service organizations such as VFW or American Legion, which help veterans apply for benefits.