As you consider your options for where to live as you get older, remember that you don't necessarily have to choose between your home and a nursing home. These days, seniors who can't or don't wish to stay in their homes have a handful of independent-living options. Examples include:
Senior apartments. These apartment complexes have age restrictions on who can live there. Some include assistive devices, such as handrails, to make getting around a little easier. These apartments can be a good choice for people who can take care of themselves, don't want to take care of a house and like having older neighbors.
Group homes. These are houses shared by several seniors who split the costs of rent, housekeeping, utilities and meals.
Shared housing. Some homeowners are willing to share their homes with seniors. The details, including any needed services, have to be worked out individually.
Independent-living retirement communities. These communities may offer apartments, town houses or houses. They may offer convenience services, such as housekeeping, meal preparation, activities, transportation and security. Some also offer medical services.
Low-income housing. If you want to spend your retirement in a house but can't afford it, you may want to look into programs offered by the <a href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=hud" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development</a>. This government agency has programs designed to make it more affordable for older people to own homes.
Assisted-living facilities. These facilities provide services, such as housekeeping, and help with personal care, such as managing medicines, bathing, dressing and grooming. Some have small, homelike settings, while others have dozens of residents.
Continuing-care retirement communities. These facilities offer independent-living, assisted-living and nursing home care all in the same place. You can move in while you're still able to care for yourself completely and request more services as you need them.
Learn more
To learn more about housing options in general and in your community, contact the <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=elder" target="_blank">Eldercare Locator</a>.

Reviewed 8/11/2023

Options for independent living in later life

As the number of older Americans grows, housing options are growing too.