Guide
Independent living, or a community with every level
For someone who mostly manages on their own and wants company, meals and no house to keep up, with a plan for later.
Who it's for
- People who don't need daily care yet
- People tired of keeping up a house alone
- Couples who want to stay together as needs change
A community with every level
- Independent living, then assisted living, then nursing care, on the same campus
- Moving between levels as needs change, without leaving the neighborhood
- Friends and routines stay close
What to ask about costs
- Is there an entrance fee, and is any of it refundable?
- What does the monthly fee cover?
- What happens to the cost when more care is needed?
Questions to ask when you visit
- Who decides when someone moves to a higher level of care?
- Is there a waiting list for assisted living or nursing care on campus?
- What happens if money runs short later?
- What did the state cite at your last inspection, and what did you change?
Neither kind of place is better. The right one is the one where your loved one will do well. I tell every family to see at least one of each before deciding.