When considering the golden years, there are many options for seniors to choose from. Professionals in geriatrics tell us that people are living longer with advances in medicine and health and wellness. Given our large population of seniors in the country, advances have also been made in housing opportunities. Here is a brief description of housing alternatives for our growing senior population.

Active Adults

Seniors who are generally 55+ who want to experience community with others and desire an active lifestyle.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a legal and regulatory term for a secondary house or apartment that shares the building lot of a larger, primary home. The unit cannot be bought or sold separately, but they are often used to provide additional income through rent or to house a family member. For example, an elderly parent could live in a small unit and avoid having to move to an assisted living facility. Benefits to ADUs:

Proximity to family
Continued independent living
Potential bill share for utilities and services

Age Restricted Communities. Also known as Active Adult Communities

An age-restricted community is a residential community, often gated, that legally discriminates based on age to limit residency to older individuals. The minimum age is frequently set at 55 years old, but it can vary.

Some amenities may include:

Swimming Pools
Tennis Courts
Pickleball Courts
Golf Course
Gathering venues
Restaurants
Etc.

Designed for seniors who are independent, active, and healthy

Multigenerational Living

Multigenerational homes allow families, either close relatives or extended family, equal space to live under one roof.

Living with your children may sound appealing and it is a popular choice among seniors. This can be a good choice:

Daily fellowship with children and grandchildren
Financial help in sharing the cost of living
Someone nearby in case of an emergency

Senior Apartments

There are apartments for seniors of 55+. Depending on the facility, some amenities may include:

Limited stairs
Grab bars
Meals offered
Communal Activities

House Sharing

Many divorcees and widows/widowers opt for house sharing. Think Golden Girls - still active but choosing to live with like-minded seniors for support. This could also be a multi-generational situation where a younger person assists a senior in exchange for a lower rent.

Need A Bit More Help?

For seniors who need someone to check in on them regularly and could use minimal help in areas of transportation, errands, light housework, cooking, etc.

The Village Model

Stay in your own home
Networking with similar needs seniors in your area
Networking for in-home care, transportation, yard work, etc.
May have some paid staff connecting members and their needs

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

These communities begin as independent facilities but are on a continuum as the resident needs more care:

Independent - Assisted Living - Memory Care - Nursing Care

Assisted Living

In the Assisted Living model, residents typically have:

A private room or suite
Activities throughout the day
Round-the-clock clinical care is available
Medication Management

Assisted Living can be an option for one who has difficulties with daily activities, safety concerns, declining health, or social isolation.

Group Homes

A Group Home is a form of Assisted Living but usually for fewer residents. Sometimes, caregivers live in the home with their families.

Memory Care

When seniors are diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, Memory Care is often the best option. Memory Care facilities usually offer activities designed to stimulate cognition. Some facilities have circular halls so that residents do not have to make choices about direction. These facilities are designed to keep residents safe by locking doors, elevators, and stairwells.

Nursing Homes

Nursing Homes provide residents with 24-hour care. Basic skills help is offered:

Dressing
Bathing
Eating
Bathroom use
Balance
Etc.

When choosing senior housing, it is crucial to prioritize finding a place that is right for you! The following lists agencies that can help families make the decisions that will best fit their loved ones.

Senior Living Options