Compare Senior Care Types

Choosing the right level of care starts with understanding the options. Here is how the main types of senior care differ.

Adult Family Home
A licensed residential home (often 2–6 residents) providing room, board, and personal care in a home-like setting.
Assisted Living
Housing with help for daily activities — meals, medication management, bathing, and dressing — for seniors who need support but not 24/7 nursing.
Memory Care
Specialized, secured assisted living for people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, with trained staff and structured routines.
Nursing Home
Skilled nursing facilities offering 24/7 licensed medical care and rehabilitation for complex or post-hospital needs.
Independent Living
Community housing for active, independent seniors who want amenities and social life without daily care.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between assisted living and memory care?

Assisted living supports daily activities for seniors who are largely independent. Memory care is a specialized, secured form of assisted living for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia, with trained staff and structured routines.

What is an adult family home?

An adult family home is a licensed residential home, usually for a small number of residents, that provides room, board, and personal care in a home-like setting.

When is a nursing home (skilled nursing) needed?

A nursing home is appropriate when a person needs 24/7 licensed medical care or rehabilitation that assisted living cannot provide.

Who is independent living for?

Independent living suits active, independent seniors who want community, amenities, and social life without needing daily personal care.

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