Guide to Senior Housing Options
Last updated: March 25, 2013
Families have so many choices to make when the search for senior
housing options arises. With so many senior housing options
available, it's easy to feel confused and overwhelmed by all the
different kinds of communities. It's important to learn the
differences between the many elder care solutions that are out
there so you can make the right choice for your family.
As you begin your search, use this handy guide to learn more
about the different types of senior housing options available.
Independent Living Communities
Senior independent living communities cater to seniors who are
very independent with few medical problems. Residents live in fully
equipped private apartments.
A variety of apartment sizes are available from studios to large
two bedrooms. Fine dining services are offered with custom-designed
meal packages. Often, residents can choose to pay for a specified
number of meals per day. Frequently, there are numerous social
outings and events to choose from for entertainment.
Also Known As:
- Retirement
Communities
- Congregate Care
- Retirement Villages
- 55 + Communities
- Senior Apartments
- Continuing Care Retirement Community
Payment Sources:
- Mostly private pay
- Some government funded through Section 202
Price Range:
Assisted Living
Assisted
Living communities are designed for seniors who are no longer
able to live on their own safely but do not require the high level
of care provided in a nursing home. Assistance with medications,
activities of daily living, meals and housekeeping are routinely
provided. Three meals per day are provided in a central dining
room. Residents live in private apartments which frequently have a
limited kitchen area. Staff is available 24 hours per day for
additional safety. Most assisted living communities provide
licensed nursing services. The hours vary greatly, so be sure to
ask when you visit. Social activities and scheduled transportation
are also available in most communities. A special unit for
Alzheimer's residents is available in some, but not all
communities.
Also Known As:
- Assisted Care Community
- Personal Care Home
Payment Sources:
- Mostly private pay
- Some take Medicaid
Price Range:
- $2,500 to $4,000 per month depending on the size of apartment
and level of assistance required
- Alzheimer's care ranges from $2,800 to $4,500 for a shared
suite
Nursing Homes
Nursing
homes provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care for the
frail elderly who require a high level of medical care and
assistance. Twenty-four hour skilled nursing services are available
from licensed nurses. Many nursing homes now provide short-term
rehabilitative stays for those recovering from an injury, illness
or surgery. Long-term care residents generally have high care needs
and complex medical conditions that require routine skilled nursing
services. Residents typically share a room and are served meals in
a central dining area unless they are too ill to participate.
Activities are also available. Some facilities have a separate unit
for Alzheimer's residents.
Also Known As:
- Convalescent Care
- Nursing Center
- Skilled Nursing
- Long Term Care Facility
Payment Sources:
- Private Pay
- Medicare
- Medicaid
Price Range:
- $4,000 to $8,000 per month
Alzheimer's Care
Numerous senior housing options for people with dementia or
Alzheimer's are available. With memory impaired, it is important to
have 24-hour support and structured activities to ensure their
safety and quality of life. Many families try to care for their
loved ones at home, which can be extremely difficult given the
skill that is required to care for a person with memory
problems.
If you need to consider a community, understand that Alzheimer's
care is delivered in the assisted living setting, as well as in
nursing homes and occasionally in personal care homes. Generally,
the residents live in semi-private apartments and have structured
activities delivered by trained staff members. Most of these living
environments have secured or locked areas to ensure no one wanders
off. Many times, within the secured areas, residents have access to
outdoor walking paths or gardens.
Also Known As:
Payment Sources:
Price Range:
- $3,000 to $7,000 per month
Residential Care Homes
Residential
care homes are private homes that typically serve residents who
live together and receive care from live-in caretakers. These homes
offer assisted care services for seniors who want a more private,
home-like community. Assistance with activities of daily living
such as bathing and dressing are typically provided. Amenities and
nursing services vary greatly between homes. Ask about their
services when you tour.
Also Known As:
- Board and Care Homes
- Group Homes
- Adult Family Homes
Payment Sources:
- Private Pay
- Medicaid (in some instances)
Price Range:
- $1500 to $3000 per month depending on the services and level of
care provided
Respite Care
Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers by
allowing a resident to have a short-term stay in a community that
can meet their needs. Many assisted living communities and nursing
homes have a respite care program. Residents typically stay from a
week to a month, depending on their situation. They receive all of
the services of the community. Respite stays may also serve as a
"get acquainted" period for the senior. Many residents find that
they enjoy their stay and decide to move in soon after the
short-term visit. Respite programs are available for assisted
living and Alzheimer's residents.
Also Known As:
- Short-Term Stay Programs
- Adult Day Care
Payment Sources:
- Private Pay
- Medicaid (in some instances)
Price Range:
Home Care
Home care allows older people to remain in their own homes while
receiving the assistance they need to help them remain independent.
Typically, home care involves providing assistance with Activities
of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and meal
preparation or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) such
as transportation, paying bills, making appointments and simply
being there to provide companionship and emotional support.
Home care services range from once a week to 24 hours a day
depending on the needs of the client.
Also Known As:
Payment Sources:
- Private Pay
- Medicare/Medicaid via certified home health agencies
Price Range:
Senior Housing Options Comparison
| Independent Living Communities |
Assisted Living |
Nursing Home |
Alzheimer's Care |
| Cost Per Month |
$1,500 - 3,500 |
$2,500 - 4,000 |
$4,000 - 8,000 |
$3,000 - 7,000 |
| Meals Per Day |
Meal Plan Options |
3+ |
3+ |
3+ |
Medication
Management |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Personal Care* |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Mobility Assistance |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Accepts Wheelchairs |
Yes |
Varies |
Yes |
Yes |
| Alzheimer's/Dementia Care |
No |
Varies |
Varies |
Yes |
| On-Site Nurses* |
No |
Varies |
Yes |
Varies |
| Transportation |
Most Yes |
Most Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Incontinence Care |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Housekeeping |
Varies |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Personal Laundry |
Varies |
Most Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
*Personal care and on-site nurses may be
available through a third party.
Find Senior Living Communities