GUIDE TO COMPARING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS

We welcome comparisons

From a family's first visit to an Atria community, we partner with you to determine the right option – even if that option isn't Atria. Here are some helpful resources to guide your decision.

Types of senior living

Before comparing options, it's necessary to choose what type of senior living is suited for your lifestyle and specific care needs. Click the options below to learn more and download our "What to know when considering senior living" guide to help decide what's right for you.

Download the Guide

Apartment communities for seniors who do not need specialized medical care. These often offer housekeeping, dining, events and transportation services – usually for a single, all-inclusive monthly rate.

Services similar to independent living, along with daily personal assistance such as bathing, grooming, getting dressed and medication reminders.

Communities that provide specialized care in a secure, structured environment for those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Traditional private homes that have been adapted to provide care services for smaller groups of residents (usually no more than 15) and offer both short-term and long-term care.

Also called nursing homes, these facilities provide 24-hour skilled medical care, rehabilitation assistance, pain management and hospice care.

Senior living communities often offer temporary stays for those recovering from surgery or illness. It’s also an excellent way to explore the benefits of community living.

Communities with independent living, assisted/supportive living and skilled nursing. CCRCs offer residents a continuum of care including medical. A resident can spend the rest of their life in a CCRC, moving between levels of care as needed.

Senior living checklist

We encourage you to visit several communities to help decide which option provides the vibrant lifestyle, amenities and care services you're looking for. To make side-by-side comparisons easier, download our comparison checklist to make notes and keep track of the important aspects of each community.

Download the Checklist

Be mindful of the following when touring communities:

Is the community clean, attractive and inviting? Are the grounds, landscaping and building exterior well-maintained?

Is the community handicap accessible? Is there a calendar of engaging events and outings? Is scheduled transportation provided? Are apartments modern? How often are housekeeping services? Are pets allowed? How is security handled? Is on-site physical or occupational therapy offered?

Are you invited to dine with the residents? If so, is the food appetizing and served at the right temperature? Is the staff friendly and attentive?

Do you see residents gathered throughout the common areas and engaged in interesting activities? Do they appear to be happy or content? Can you picture yourself or your family member living there?

Are you warmly greeted upon entering? Is the staff friendly, professional and knowledgeable? What are staff hours? What’s their rapport with residents – do they know them by name? Ask what types of training employees receive and the average length of tenure, including management.

What is the length of lease? Is there a buy-in fee or security deposit? Is there a new resident fee? What about a second-occupant fee? Are there recurring monthly fees? How often do fees change? Is there a move-out notification policy?

Senior living vs. staying at home

Use our cost comparison calculator to see if senior living is a wise investment.

Let's Compare Costs

Featured Communities

How to pay for senior living

For most families, cost is an important factor when considering the benefits of a senior living community. We've compiled some helpful resources to determine costs and explore opportunities for financial assistance.

Help with Financial Planning