Types of Senior Housing

After a trying year, many of us are grateful for the blessings of family this Thanksgiving season, especially our kupuna.

If you or your loved ones are lucky enough to spend their golden years in Hawaii, there is a range of housing options available. From active senior communities and aging in place with ohana to skilled 24-hour nursing care, Oahu has many types of housing available to meet the needs of seniors.

Here is an overview of the types of senior housing available:

Adult Residential Care Homes (ARCH)

Residential care homes are licensed by the state, but not certified for Medicare. These homes include meals, safety and other basic services. Some ARCHs can help seniors who are sick or have disabilities, thanks to 24-hour staff, who provide therapy programs, medication management, exercise and activities. Expanded ARCHs are adult residential facilities licensed to admit individuals who may require a higher level of nursing care.

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF)

Skilled nursing facilities (or nursing homes) are places that care for people who don’t need to be in a hospital, but cannot receive the care they need at home. Nursing homes have nursing aides and nurses 24 hours a day. Staff can provide rehabilitation services, as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy.

SNFs can be freestanding or associated with assisted living communities to provide a comprehensive continuum of care for residents.

Assisted Living Communities (ASL)

Assisted living communities are ideal for individuals need assistance with daily who are ambulatory and care, but not nursing-home level of care. ASLs offer assistance with activities such as housekeeping, meals, laundry and transportation, as well as personal care such as bathing, dressing and eating.

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

CCRCs, also known as Life Care Communities, offer a housing option for kupuna who would like to live independently but prefer residing in a community.

These retirement communities offer increasing levels of care (independent, assisted living and skilled nursing) on one campus. Residents have lifetime contracts that provide the security to remain in the same community as health needs change.

Active Independent Senior Living Communities

Senior age-restricted communities suit individuals who are independent, relatively healthy and wish to maintain their independence and privacy. Most Independent Senior Living Communities provide an environment for seniors to socialize and participate in activities and classes with their peers. Senior living communities foster wellness and promote an active lifestyle.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a separate attached or detached living space on a single-family home lot. This is a good option for kupuna who want to be close to family members, but still maintain some independence. It’s important to research and understand ADU laws, as there are several requirements you’ll need to meet.

Affordable Senior Housing Eligible kupuna can take advantage of subsidized housing through government programs. These include the Public Housing, Section 202 and Housing Choice Voucher Program. This housing is typically apartment communities that offer rent at a reduced price. The programs are based on age and income.

For a list of senior communities on Oahu, visit locationshawaii.com/seniorhousing.

To learn more about senior real estate needs, attend our free, virtual Locations Senior Real Estate Seminar on Dec. 3. For more details and to register, visit locationshawaiI.com/kupuna.

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