Different needs, different transactions
| Question | 55+ community | Independent living | Assisted living |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary purchase | Home to buy, or sometimes rent | Service-oriented senior residence | Licensed residential care |
| Help with bathing or medications | Not included | Generally not included | Typically part of care services |
| Housing regulation | Fair housing and HOA rules | Varies by state and services | State care license |
| Common ongoing costs | Mortgage or rent, HOA, maintenance | Monthly residence and services fee | Base room/board plus additional care |
| Who chooses | Resident or homeowner | Resident, often with family | Resident and family as care needs require |
Don't confuse age restrictions with on-site health care
A golf course, recreation center or HOA membership does not mean the development has nurses, aides, dining service or personal care. Confirm available accessibility and permitted in-home services before buying. Independent living provides varying services but is also usually not a substitute for assisted living when a person needs regular help with daily tasks.
Before choosing, ask what will happen when transportation, dressing, meal preparation or memory become harder. Price comparisons should consider HOA dues, entrance fees and recurring care costs separately.