Senior Housing Options and Care Transitions Explained

Where and how an older adult lives has a profound impact on safety, independence, finances, and quality of life. Housing decisions are rarely one-size-fits-all and often evolve as health, mobility, and caregiving needs change. Understanding the full range of housing options, along with how to manage care transitions, helps families make informed, confident decisions.

Multigenerational housing

Multigenerational housing typically means three generations living under one roof, often a parent, adult child, and grandchild. In some cases, one generation moves into another’s home. In others, homes are designed with features such as dual primary suites to support shared living.

Issues to consider with multigenerational living

Pooling financial resources can reduce costs and delay or avoid institutional care. Families may benefit from built-in childcare or eldercare and more time together. However, this arrangement can also bring challenges.

Consider:

Privacy and personal space

Family dynamics and potential friction

Clear expectations around finances, caregiving, and house rules

Regular check-ins to adjust the arrangement as needs change

Cohousing communities

Cohousing communities may be intergenerational or designed for adults age 50+. Residents typically live in private homes or condos while sharing common spaces and meals.

Issues to consider

Cohousing offers flexibility. Participation in shared meals and activities is optional, but many residents value the sense of community. Costs are shared, and residents often form close relationships.

Potential downsides include:

Consensus-based decision-making

Shared rules that may not suit everyone

Aging in place

Many older adults wish to remain in their own homes as they age. Whether this is realistic depends on several factors.

Getting a reality check

Evaluate:

Home layout and accessibility

Proximity to services, healthcare, and social support

Safety risks such as stairs or isolation

Ability to afford and coordinate outside help

Home alone, but not lonely

Community-based “Village” organizations support older adults aging at home by offering social events and access to vetted service providers for an annual fee.

Shared housing

Shared housing involves two or more people living together. An older adult may move in with someone else, welcome a roommate, or relocate together.

Issues to consider

Shared housing can reduce loneliness and costs, and provide informal support. Success depends on finding compatible roommates.

Screening and contracts

Discuss expectations around chores, finances, privacy, guests, pets, and noise. Written agreements and an exit plan are essential. Regular check-ins help address concerns early.

Some arrangements involve reduced rent in exchange for help with chores, transportation, or companionship.

Moving in with you

When an aging parent moves in with an adult child, families must think carefully about logistics and relationships.

Issues to consider

Space, accessibility, and privacy

Financial contributions

Impact on spouses and children

Care needs and supervision requirements

Understanding the advantages

Moving in together can strengthen family bonds, reduce caregiving stress, and significantly lower costs compared to assisted living or nursing homes. Adult day care and respite care can provide additional support.

Long-term care options

Long-term care includes independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care.

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)

Also known as Life Plan Communities, CCRCs offer multiple levels of care on one campus. Residents may move between levels as needs change.

Costs

Typically include a large entrance fee and monthly service fees covering housing, meals, activities, and maintenance.

Issues to consider

Financial stability of the community

Refund policies

Cost increases over time

Care level transitions and eligibility

Policies around private caregivers

Some CCRCs are located on or near college campuses, offering educational and cultural opportunities.

Defining home

A house is a structure, but a home is where someone feels comfortable, secure, and connected. Home can be living alone, sharing space, or residing in a care community. The goal is to create a living arrangement that supports dignity, safety, and quality of life.

Before choosing any option, confirm affordability and long-term sustainability. A financial advisor can help evaluate costs.

Care transitions

Transitions between care settings, such as hospital to home or rehab to home, are high-risk periods.

Be vigilant

Poor communication and unclear instructions can lead to medication errors, complications, or hospital readmission.

Speak with a transition coach

Hospitals and community organizations may offer care transition coordinators who help manage communication, follow-up care, and support services.

Questions to ask before discharge

What symptoms require immediate attention?

When and how should medical help be sought?

What medications have changed and why?

When is the follow-up appointment?

Is home health care available?

Ensure the primary care physician is informed of hospitalizations and medication changes.

Take notes and stay organized

Keep detailed records of medications, symptoms, and questions. A personal health record, whether digital or paper-based, helps ensure continuity of care across providers.

End-of-life planning

Conversations about end-of-life wishes are essential. Palliative care and hospice focus on comfort, dignity, and support for both patients and families. Planning ahead ensures that wishes are respected and reduces stress during difficult times.