Essential Insights About Housing Options for Seniors
Learn essential information about senior housing options including types, eligibility, costs, key features, and top providers. Designed for active seniors, these communities focus on independence, security, and accessible amenities, helping retirees choose suitable homes for their lifestyle needs.
Senior living residences are specially designed housing options for individuals aged 55 and older. These communities support independent lifestyles, ideal for retirees who do not require daily medical assistance. Many seniors choose these apartments to reduce living costs, travel, or away from home responsibilities. They offer secure environments with all necessary services within easy reach, ensuring comfort and convenience for active seniors.
Discover more about senior living choices and what to consider when selecting a community.
Types of senior housing options:
Independent senior apartments: Include amenities like meals, recreational activities, and transportation.
Continuing care communities: Offer assisted living and skilled nursing services, allowing seniors to age in place with varying levels of support.
Subsidized housing: Affordable units funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development for low-income seniors.
Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities:
This type of community isn’t specifically designed for seniors but contains a significant number of senior residences. Unlike dedicated senior communities, these often lack specialized amenities but provide accessible housing options such as condos, cottages, mobiles, duplexes, or townhomes.
Age criteria for senior living residences:
Most require residents to be at least 55 or 62 years old.
Some communities with a 55+ restriction allow up to 20% of residents to be younger than 55.
In communities with a 55+ restriction, at least one resident must be 55 or older.
Communities over 62 typically require every resident to be above 62.
Exceptions may apply for residents with disabilities or special needs.
Estimated costs for senior apartments:
Rental prices vary based on individual income levels.
Usually, rent is set at 30% of adjusted monthly income or 10% of monthly income.
Luxury apartments tend to have higher rents.
Pricing depends on available amenities and location.
Low-income senior housing offers reduced rents, though waiting lists may be long.
Key features to consider in senior communities:
Parking convenience and security
Ample storage space within units
Accessible features such as elevators, ramps, and handrails
Proximity to stores, hospitals, and transportation options
Community safety measures
Adjustable kitchen counters and accessible bathrooms
Community activities and maintenance services
Leading builders of senior housing across states include:
Brookdale Senior Living Solutions
Holiday Retirement
Life Care Services
Five Star Senior Living
Erickson Living
Atria Senior Living
Senior Lifestyle Corp.
Capital Senior Living Corp.
Affinity Living Group
USA Properties Fund
Enlivant
