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What Is...Independent Living?

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Independent living communities, also known as senior housing and senior communities, are dwellings restricted to seniors, usually age 55 and older or 62 and older. Facilities do not include support services or staff to address the special needs of aging residents. Instead, senior living residences are designed for independent individuals in good overall health who are able to live on their own but desire the lifestyle associated with community living.

Senior living facilities often cater to those who seek enriched lifestyles with organized social activities. Many offer classes such as dance, art, ceramics, woodworking and more. Others are equipped with exercise and fitness facilities, swimming pools and spas, laundry services, meals and/or dining facilities, and have access to local transportation.

A recent study by the AARP concluded that over 40% of seniors moving to apartment complexes prefer age-restricted communities to age-integrated residences. The Department of Housing and Urban Development regulations allow for age exclusion, however, exceptions can be made for those who are under the minimum age if they are disabled. Residences that satisfy the technical definition of senior housing can legally exclude families with children.

Senior residences are not licensed by government agencies and are absent from formal regulations. Agreements and conditions are determined by the organization managing the community. Residents who qualify for senior communities are often eligible for federal subsidies. In such cases, it would be prudent to determine if facilities accept rent vouchers.

Posted in: Glossary, Glossary, Weighing your Housing Options

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