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Many seniors strive to remain living in their home for as long as possible, yet as they age, so does the house. It becomes more and more difficult to manage homeownership on top of the other challenges of growing older, such as diminishing mobility, health concerns, and shrinking social circles. In fact, social isolation is a significant concern among the senior demographic and can put unnecessary strain on them during what is supposed to be their golden years. This can all be potentially avoided by transitioning into a senior apartment community, which is a common first step for many adults across the U.S. looking into senior living options.
While senior apartments have been around for some time, the quality and amenities provided continue to grow and improve year after year. Not only can this type of senior living help you or a loved one connect and build new relationships, it also provides a vibrant community filled with engaging activities, wellness events, and social interaction with a company of like-minded individuals.
As you look into all of the living options you have available, Caring Advisor wants to give you the guidance and assurance you need to make the decision that best fits your lifestyle. We are here to answer all of your questions— just contact us!
Senior apartments are a type of senior housing where people over the age of 55 can live comfortably, often at a lower cost compared to regular apartments for people of all ages. Homes within each complex are usually equipped with features that cater to older adults that face the common challenges of aging—but the seniors that live inside their walls are still very much active and independent enough to support themselves in all aspects of daily living.
At a senior apartment community, a resident has complete freedom over where they want to go, when they can go, and what to do with their time and living space. The campus typically offers or is at least nearby many different senior-friendly conveniences and amenities. This senior living option is truly designed for active older adults who want an independent, low-maintenance lifestyle.
For some, one of the biggest reasons to move into a senior apartment is that they can live in the company of other accomplished people who have an infinite array of interests and personal histories, all coming together to challenge the assumptions of what it means to retire.
Senior living apartments take away the needless chores that may hinder the carefree lifestyle of retirement living. The one- to two-bedroom apartments have all the comforts of a homelike setting without the worry of home upkeep, yard maintenance, repairs, and clutter. Seniors now have more time to make personal connections and get back to doing what they love doing.
Apartments are inside buildings that have been designed with fewer floors and stairs to allow for better accessibility. The units inside these apartment buildings—ranging in size from large to small—are usually outfitted with senior-convenient features such as move-in ready rooms, step-in showers, grab bars, well-lit closets, built-in safety items, and more.
While it is different from apartment to apartment, many communities emphasize some or all of the following amenities:
Eligibility for senior apartments depends on age, credit checks, and whether or not you are able to pay rent each month. Most senior apartments enforce a minimum age requirement of somewhere between 55 and 62 years or older. There are exceptions made for this restriction; for instance, if only one spouse meets the age requirement but the other does not, they may still have the opportunity to live in a senior apartment at the discretion of the complex.
Another example includes those who are receiving housing assistance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD contributes to the funding of certain senior housing complexes, therefore, many low-income senior citizens become eligible for senior apartments at relatively lower costs. HUD also permits people with disabilities to rent in senior apartments, but they must be at least 19 years of age and meet all other requirements.
Independent living apartments and senior apartments are very similar in that seniors who call them home are often active, healthy, and able to perform many activities of daily living on their own. The main difference, however, is that independent living is a slightly higher level of senior care because it offers residents the option to access skilled nursing care should the need arise. On the other hand, senior apartments are more focused on providing affordable senior housing in a community-focused (not necessarily healthcare-focused) environment.
Altogether, senior apartments are the more hands-off option while independent living may offer dining, transportation, access to skilled nursing, housekeeping, and laundry services all within the fee.
At Caring Advisor, we understand that necessary health services combined with the rising costs of pharmaceuticals can be an expensive equation for many seniors—especially those with fixed or limited incomes. You or your loved one may be worried about whether you can afford a senior apartment, but rest assured there are various options with different price points to choose from.
Overall, the costs of senior apartments vary quite a bit based upon factors such as the size of the accommodations, services offered, the location, and more. The three main pricing categories usually include:
When compared to other senior living options, senior apartments may be one of the most affordable choices to choose from. For example, as the more hands-off option, senior apartments are more affordable than nursing homes or assisted living because you are not paying for skilled nursing and other care services.
Many people start their retirement journey with a senior apartment. It’s an ideal first step that allows a resident to easily transition into the next lifestyle option if their level of care changes and they’re in need of continuing care. Senior apartments everywhere have cultivated an environment in which the curiosity and creativity of every resident deserves to be encouraged and explored. If this sounds like the right housing option for you or your loved one, we encourage you to ask family and friends, research online, tour the different facilities that are available, and get on the waiting list for your apartment of choice as soon as possible.
Need help? At Caring Advisor, it’s our goal to assist all individuals and families in finding comfortable, supportive housing. We offer information on diverse senior living communities that meet any individual’s needs. Our supportive staff is here to help find senior apartments near you as well as navigate the senior living landscape.