Housing Choices for Older Adults – From Aging in Place to High-Rise Communities

Today’s seniors have more choices than ever when it comes to deciding on where they should live as they get older. Traditional nursing homes have expanded to include a greater range of assisted living homes and senior apartment communities that are styled to function just like a regular personal home – but with greatly needed assistance and additional opportunities to socialize.

Many older adults find it necessary to move from the home that they currently live in. Some of the reasons for moving can include:
• The neighborhood has deteriorated and safety is a concern
• To be near children (more than half of those 65+ live within 1 hour of a child)
• Size and layout of a home (including multi-levels or staircases)
• Maintenance costs and requirements
• Proximity to necessary services and shopping, especially if they are no longer driving
• Need for daily assistance with medications and household tasks

Some assisted living communities are built like small, self-contained ‘neighborhoods’, with housing units styled to include private bedrooms and bathrooms, with a common living area and kitchen. 24-hour basic care is provided, along with meals, laundry services and transportation.

Apartment style living is also popular, with small apartments that also have the benefits of common dining and living, along with a dedicated staff and plenty of social activities and group transportation to shopping, as well as private transport for personal appointments.

Another lifestyle choice includes senior high-rise centers that offer different levels of care depending on the changing needs of the residents. These senior centers often include a ‘buy-in’ plan, much like purchasing a home, along with monthly care and maintenance fees. For seniors and families who have the financial means, this option can offer a lifetime of extended care. Housing ranges from stylized apartment living for independent seniors to moderate care and assistance to full time nursing care. As the seniors continue to age, they stay in the same high-rise building, but move from floor to floor as their needs change.

While many older adults choose to ‘age in place’ at home, often with constant or live-in help, many relocating seniors find satisfaction in group settings which can help them maintain social interaction and friendships, along with the benefits of having helpful, friendly staff and medical professionals around them.