Senior Housing: An Overview

Senior housing is an evolving term today, encompassing both a place to live and a way to live. Today’s seniors, lead by the Baby Boomers, have the opportunity to live life on their terms. The way one intends to live will naturally determine where one chooses to live. Choices for senior housing are evolving and expanding as the senior population increases and the market develops to meet their needs and desires.

Types of Senior Housing

Although descriptive terms may differ, senior housing is generally viewed in the following categories:

• Active Senior Living indicates a variety of housing options within a community geared to those over 55. Apartments, condominiums and single detached houses may all be available, but the focus will be on activities and services appealing to seniors, often including classes, seminars, recreation, travel options and proximity to outdoor sports.
• Senior Apartments refers to housing marketed to people over age 55. They do not offer supportive services in the form of available staff or housekeeping services.
• Independent Living provides residential housing, much like an apartment or condominium complex, but often also offers the added benefit of 24-hour staff to respond to medical emergencies and to provide housekeeping services.
• Assisted Living generally includes private apartments of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom sizes with a 24-hour staff available for help with activities of daily living (ADLs). The level of care needed varies from light housekeeping to extensive personal assistance.
• Memory Care is offered in individual apartments or private rooms in a safe and controlled atmosphere with 24-hour trained medical staff. Senior housing that offers specialized dementia and Alzheimer’s care may be free-standing or a designated area in a larger assisted living facility.
• Care Homes are generally found in neighborhoods and are usually privately owned. They are licensed by the state and provide non-medical care for six or fewer residents. They are more cost-effective and provide more of a home-like atmosphere than other types of senior housing, but do not provide medical care.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) provide a continuum of care that includes housing, services and health care. Assisted living is not always included, but skilled nursing care is always available, either on or off site. The CCRC offers a contract to residents, guaranteeing housing and nursing services, often for lifetime.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities, also known as nursing homes or rehabilitation facilities, are senior housing that offer 24-hour medical care, generally in the form of private and semi-private rooms.

A Snapshot of Senior Housing

This chart reflects general levels of service. Skilled nursing and personal care are often available through a third party. Prices vary according to the services one is receiving and the area of residence.

As senior housing options increase with the aging of the population, it is necessary to thoroughly discuss and research all options well in advance of an intended move. Read through our library of comprehensive senior housing resources to learn all you can about the options available. Then browse our directory of senior housing in your area to find the right home for you or your loved one.

Written by senior housing writer Marky Olson.