I would go the "lets work something out route". If the landlord plays hardball, most states do not allow unemployment, social security, etc to be garnished. If you do not pay, and are brought back to court, you can just say your only income is unemployment social security, I can not pay because...(valid reason) and the courts will not make you pay. Legally, you are still responsible, but until your finances improve (if ever) you will not be required to pay.
So put yourself in the landlords position. You owe the landlord money, you will continue to owe the money, but the court will not force you to pay. So the landlord will be better off having an agreement with you.
