Mom told me she is concerned about my housing options when she passes away. The building management rules make my staying there not an option. Plus I could never afford it on my own anyway. My finances are very limited due to caregiving full time. I have several relatives who would like me to live with them. Some of them used to live with us, and the experience was very stressful. They are slightly younger than my mom, and are hoping I will become their caregivers. I don't want to do that. I would appreciate whatever suggestions anyone may have. Thank you.
We need to take care of ourself too.
Whatever you decide to do, I think you definitely want to avoid caregiving for stressful people -- what a double whammy!
Do you have a job that you can return to?
It might be that you have to take up the offer of housing for a short time but you need to find other options and the best time to do so is now when it is not "urgent" that you leave where you are now.
Very few of us can afford to quit our jobs mid-career to do full time caregiving. I'm glad that mom is concerned! Talk to her about setting up a plan to pay you a living wage so that you will be able to afford to live somewhere decent when she passes on. Then you'll be better able to get back on your feet and resume your career.
Use caution with Craigslist... it seems like every other episode of Judge Judy has to do with either shady roommates or landlords that found each other on Craigslist. And as others have said you'll go to the end of the line for section 8 housing unless you have kids or a disability of some sort.
Early 50s is a late start in life but better late than never. Good luck.