There are many living options for seniors. Those options include, but are not limited to, general apartments, public housing, assisted living, and senior apartments. However, the best type of senior housing for you depends on your individual needs.
For example, some seniors require additional aid or need advanced medical care, while others may prefer to live with neighbors of similar ages. Additionally, some seniors struggle financially and may qualify for public housing programs. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common living options for seniors.
Senior apartments are just that – apartments designed for senior living. It’s common for senior apartments to offer seniors social activities, quiet atmospheres, private units, fitness centers, and other amenities. Additionally, these apartments are generally designed with seniors in mind, so they may feature single-floor layouts and be more wheelchair accessible. However, most senior apartments do not provide assisted living services, such as helping with daily activities, medication reminders, or any type of medical aid. Senior apartments can be any type of housing, including traditional apartments, condominiums, townhouses, multi-family housing, and single-family homes.
These types of apartments generally have age-based eligibility criteria that renters must meet to live there. The minimum age requirements vary by the apartment complex, but the minimum is typically between 55 and 62 years old. However, most senior apartments for rent allow younger children to live with qualifying senior caretakers. In addition, seniors can have visitors, even if those visitors do not meet the age requirements of the apartment complex.
While these apartments are age-restricted, they are not generally income-restricted. Seniors need only be able to pay for their unit. They do not need to have incomes that meet low or high guidelines to rent an apartment. However, some of these apartments may cooperate with various housing programs, such as Section 8 housing. While senior apartments are generally affordable and may even cost less than other local complexes, that’s not always the case. Just like any other type of apartment, monthly costs can vary.
If you’re searching for senior apartments for rent, it’s important to consider questions like:
- How much can you afford for rent?
- Do you need any daily assistance?
- What kind of amenities do you prefer to have?
- Do you need a first-floor unit?
- Do you need an apartment that allows pets?
- How much are you willing to pay towards move-in costs?
- Would you prefer to live in a quieter atmosphere?
- Are you looking for living options for seniors that include social activities?
These questions can help you narrow down your search or help you decide if you should broaden your search to other nearby communities.