ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an overview of senior housing options as well as important factors to be considered with each. It explores option of aging in place and discusses special age-restricted housing alternatives. The chapter describes different types of independent living retirement housing. It examines supportive housing options that offer some degree of assistive services. The chapter considers residence in a nursing home for seniors with greater care and medical needs. For many seniors, the best housing is the house, condominium, or apartment where they presently live. Although aging in place presents challenges, the advantages go beyond the mere comfort of staying in a familiar situation. House sharing can benefit both participants, but problems can arise, even when the house sharer is a relative. Medicare provides part-time and intermittent home health care for homebound seniors who need skilled nursing care, home health aides, or physical, speech, or occupational therapy.