How to Find Senior Communities

Many seniors need affordable housing that offers convenience, companionship and opportunities for social interactions with their peers and the community. Senior housing communities should also provide security. As seniors age, they may need assistance to remain independent in their housing community as well.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Ask your county Human Resources Department or Commission on Aging staff about senior friendly communities that have amenities like senior companion services and Safe-at-Home modifications.
2. Get information about Aging-in-Place communities, organizations and supportive services that may be available in your area. Request referrals to communities that have received good ratings from area seniors.
3. Prepare a list of questions designed to help you determine how to rate senior communities, according to your current and future needs. Get information about costs, services, ratings and any records that are available to the public.
4. Visit the Eden Alternative website to explore innovative aging in place, senior independence and end of life philosophies that are being implemented in some senior communities throughout the country. Search the website for communities in your area that have adopted this vision.
5. Search for senior communities by name or location at the Retirement Living website. Find and compare the communities that fit your budget and lifestyle. Use links on the Senior Resource website to explore a variety of housing choices and communities.
6. Look into Continuum of Care communities that provide services that help seniors remain independent and transition to assisted living if the need arises. These communities make transitions much less traumatic by providing every possible of form of housing and supportive services, from independent living to nursing home and hospice care, in one location.
7. Consider Medicare eligible senior communities and assisted living facilities in your area before the need arises. Advance preparation can relieve your anxiety about repeated moves if your health or abilities suddenly decline.