Combing through the different types of senior living options can feel overwhelming to say the least. Whether you’re looking for yourself, your partner or an older family member, there is a ton to consider, so doing the work in advance is critical. You’re not only thinking about current needs, after all, you’re considering future ones, as well.
“It’s important to look closely at the different senior living options to find the best match for health requirements, lifestyle preferences and emotional health,” says Christopher Norman, a board-certified geriatric nurse practitioner at the National Council on Aging. “By evaluating choices carefully, and sooner rather than later, you’re more likely to find a community that offers the right medical support along with appropriate amenities and social activities that make life enjoyable.”
From independent and assisted living facilities to nursing homes and more, here’s an expert rundown on the types of senior living facilities.
The importance of researching different senior living options
Different folks need different housing and care options, which is why there’s variety when it comes to the different types of senior living facilities, explains Mary Cordova, co-founder and vice president of business development at Concierge Care Advisors.
“With the range of senior living options available, and each with different levels of care, services and costs, due diligence ensures families are finding the best match for their unique needs,” says Cordova.
Further, there can be notable differences in the same type of facility (e.g., no two nursing homes are alike).
“Senior living communities can vary significantly in terms of care quality, social activities, medical support and even the atmosphere they provide,” Cordova continues. “Researching thoroughly — through reviews, on-site visits and consultations with experts — helps families understand these differences and make an informed choice that truly meets their loved one’s health and lifestyle requirements.”
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Types of senior living
Here, Norman and Cordova explain the types of senior living options, which can help you decide which is best for you.
Independent living communities
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Independent living communities, including senior living apartments, are designed for active older adults who are able to manage their own personal care but want the convenience, amenities and social opportunities of a community living setup.
“These communities often offer private apartments or cottages along with communal dining, housekeeping, transportation and activity options,” explains Cordova. “Independent living is best suited for seniors looking to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle and build social connections while maintaining their independence.”
Assisted living
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Designed for seniors who need support with some daily activities, such as meal prep, medication management and housekeeping, assisted living facilities allow residents to maintain a good deal of independence, according to Cordova.
“Residents typically have their own living spaces and can engage in community activities while receiving assistance with tasks as needed,” she notes, adding that they’re ideal for older adults who are “relatively active but may have physical limitations or need help with routine care.”
“This setting balances independence and support,” she continues, “providing peace of mind for both residents and their families.”
Norman adds that assisted living is a great option for folks who don’t need assistance with basic activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing or getting dressed.
Nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities
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Nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities are geared toward adults who need round-the-clock medical monitoring and assistance with daily activities or rehabilitation services, Norman notes. (Note: Nursing homes are permanent residences geared toward older adults, where skilled nursing facilities are more of a “short-term, inpatient rehabilitation and medical treatment facility for people of all ages who require a high level of care,” Cordova explains.)
“This setup is good for people with severe health problems or those recovering from surgery or illness because they offer extensive medical and rehabilitative support,” he explains.
Both nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities are staffed with licensed nurses and healthcare professionals. “Nursing homes are best suited for seniors requiring ongoing medical support or rehabilitation, such as those with chronic illnesses, complex care needs or recovery challenges that make independent living difficult, explains Cordova, adding: “They provide a higher level of care than independent living or assisted living communities.”
Memory care
Memory care facilities are specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other memory-related conditions. “These facilities offer a secure environment and specialized programming that helps residents maintain cognitive function, manage symptoms and engage in activities suited to their abilities,” notes Cordova. Think: secured doors and an apropos daily schedule.
“With trained staff and enhanced security measures,” Cordova continues, “memory care facilities provide safety and a sense of routine for residents, giving families confidence that their loved one is in a safe, supportive, structured setting that prioritizes mental health and wellness.”
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
CCRCs offer a number of different senior care options, all within the same community. These are ideal for folks who want to remain in the same overall community while transitioning between care levels. (Think going from independent or assisted living to skilled nursing or memory care.)
“This continuity fosters strong social connections and reduces stress, as residents know they won’t have to leave their familiar surroundings if their health needs change over time,” explains Cordova.
Adult family homes (adult care homes/residential homes)
Another option is an adult family home, or, as they’re also referred to, an adult care home or adult residential home.
Depending on the location, these are small, residential-style facilities that provide a more personalized level of care in a home-like setting, Cordova explains. “Typically, these homes accommodate a small number of residents — usually between four and six — and offer assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation, as well as basic medical supervision.”
Adult family homes are ideal for older adults partial to a more private, community-focused experience.
Which senior living option is right for you?
Choosing the best living facility, Norman notes, involves taking current and potential future medical and personal care needs into account. After that, it’s important to consider the facility’s location, cost, and whether or not the amenities and activities are in line with the potential resident’s interests.
Once you’ve landed on the type of senior living facility, visit a few different options to see the environment, meet the staff and speak with residents. “This,” Cordova notes, “provides invaluable insights that go beyond brochures or online reviews.”
The bottom line
Researching types of senior living facilities means taking both current and future needs into consideration and starting your search early.
“Many people start this search too late and end up getting what they get out of desperation or limited choice,” Norman says. “It’s never too soon for people to start investigating the services available in your area.”
