Navigating Your Way Through The Senior Housing Maze

If you, your parents or other elderly relatives are beginning to explore senior housing options, you probably know that there are many options to choose from. In fact, the number of choices can be downright daunting and leave you feeling emotionally exhausted. The best choice will depend on budget, the level of care needed and the facility's distance to family and friends, as well as proximity to quality health care and desired cultural amenities.

Aging in place

According to Housing America's Older Adults, a study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, over 75% of those 80 years and above live in their own homes. 73% of Americans surveyed by AARP would prefer to remain in their own residence as long as possible.

The appeal of this option is understandable. Seniors remain in a familiar place and maintain independence — although they may be aided by family members, in-home nursing care or a housekeeping service. Remaining at home can also be less expensive than other options. The median rate for home health aide services is $135 per day, according to the Genworth 2017 Cost of Care Survey. Aging in place tends to work best for seniors who are relatively mobile, have family nearby and are actively involved in their communities.

Senior communities

For more-active seniors, age-restricted or adult retirement communities are another popular choice. Typically at least one person in each residence — which may be a house, apartment or condominium — has reached a certain age, such as 60 or older. The communities may offer exercise rooms, pools or other amenities. Most do not provide help with personal tasks or medical care, and costs usually rise as the number and quality of amenities increase.

Similar are independent living communities, which often go by names such as retirement communities or senior housing. The residences usually do not have staircases and otherwise vary by size. Typically, the community handles maintenance and may also provide meals and transportation services. However, independent living communities usually do not help with personal tasks or provide health care.

Older seniors and those needing assistance may want to consider an assisted living residence. Typically, residents live in their own apartments or condominiums, yet they can access help with such tasks as bathing or dressing, if necessary. Some assisted...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT