Types of Senior Living Communities

Updated August 7, 2025 | Lisbeth Cano

Table of Contents

When an aging parent needs more support than can be provided at home, senior living communities offer structured environments designed to meet diverse needs.

Understanding the different types available is crucial for making an informed decision. These communities offer varying levels of care, amenities, and costs—each suited to different health and independence levels.

Understanding the Spectrum of Senior Living Options

Senior living includes a wide range of residential options, each designed to support seniors’ well-being at various stages of aging.

Some focus on social connection and independence. Others are built for advanced medical needs. The right choice depends on your loved one’s current and expected future condition.

🏠 Board and Care Homes: Small-Scale, Personal Support

Also known as residential care homes or group homes, these offer:

  • A home-like setting in residential neighborhoods
  • Meals, personal care, and basic supervision
  • 24-hour staffing, but not medical professionals
  • Fewer than 20 residents per home

“These homes are best for people who need daily help but not constant medical care.” — 1

Payment: Usually private pay; some accept Medicaid or long-term care insurance.

🏥 Nursing Homes: Skilled Medical Supervision

Nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities, are ideal for seniors who need:

  • 24/7 skilled nursing and supervision
  • Help with bathing, mobility, or feeding
  • Physical, speech, and occupational therapy
  • Post-hospital care or chronic condition management

“Nursing homes provide more medical care than assisted living or board and care homes.” — 1

Funding Options:

  • Medicare (short-term rehab after hospitalization)
  • Medicaid (long-term care for qualifying individuals)
  • Private pay or long-term care insurance

🧓 Assisted Living: Support with Daily Tasks

Designed for seniors who can still live somewhat independently but need help with certain tasks:

  • Private or semi-private apartments
  • Meals and medication assistance
  • Housekeeping and laundry
  • Activities and social programs

“Assisted living is for people who need help with daily care, but not as much as a nursing home provides.” — 2

📚 Explore:

🏘️ Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Also called Life Plan Communities, these offer:

  • Independent housing
  • On-site assisted living and nursing care
  • Seamless transitions as care needs increase
  • Long-term residency plans

“CCRCs offer all levels of care on one campus.” — 3

Typical Costs:

  • Large entry fee ($100,000–$500,000+)
  • Monthly payments
  • Usually private pay; long-term care insurance may help

Learn more at Independent Living.

🧠 Memory and Dementia Care

Offered in stand-alone memory care centers or within assisted living/nursing homes:

  • Secure environments to prevent wandering
  • Staff trained in dementia care
  • Structured routines and cognitive support

“Some assisted living and nursing homes have dedicated Alzheimer’s care units.” — 4

📚 Compare:

🧍 Home and Community-Based Services

These non-residential alternatives help delay facility care:

  • In-home caregivers for help with ADLs
  • Adult day programs with meals and activities
  • Transportation to appointments and shopping
  • Meal delivery and check-ins

Great for families looking to support aging in place without full relocation.

🧭 How to Choose the Right Senior Living Option

“Consider the person's current and future needs, preferences, and budget.” — 5

✅ Steps to Take:

  • [ ] Evaluate medical needs and daily living capabilities
  • [ ] Visit multiple communities
  • [ ] Ask about services, staff training, and emergency plans
  • [ ] Review contracts for hidden fees
  • [ ] Talk to current residents and their families

📋 Use tools like:

📦 Preparing for the Transition

Help your loved one adjust:

  • Involve them in every decision
  • Tour communities together
  • Create a cozy, familiar space
  • Encourage participation in social activities

📚 Related guide: Transition to Independent Living

📚 Summary: Senior Living Options at a Glance

Type Medical Care Living Style Common Payment Options
Board & Care Homes Low Shared home Private pay, Medicaid (varies)
Assisted Living Moderate Apartments or suites Private pay, LTC insurance, some Medicaid
Nursing Homes High (24/7 skilled) Private/semi-private Medicare, Medicaid, LTC insurance
Continuing Care (CCRCs) All levels Apartments to full care Private pay, LTC insurance
Memory Care Units Specialized Secure, structured Private pay, LTC insurance

🧰 Helpful Resources

Final Thoughts

Choosing a senior living community is one of the most important decisions a family can make. With the right information, you can choose a setting that supports your loved one’s health, dignity, and peace of mind.

Start early, ask good questions, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice.

  1. NIA.gov – Long-Term Care Facilities ↩ ↩

  2. NIA.gov – Assisted Living ↩

  3. NIA.gov – Continuing Care Retirement Communities ↩

  4. NIA.gov – Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care ↩

  5. NIA.gov – Choosing Long-Term Care ↩

Explore Related Topics:

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Lisbeth Cano Clinical Researcher and Elder Advocate

Meet the author: Lisbeth Cano earned her medical degree from Universidad de Iberoamérica in Costa Rica and worked as a doctor before becoming a clinical researcher. She now focuses on senior care, writing evidence-based guides for SeniorCanvas.com to help families make safer, smarter decisions for aging parents.