---
title: "What Is Independent living? Home Care Glossary | HomeCare.com"
description: "Independent living is housing for older adults who can manage on their own. Communities often offer meals, social activities, transportation, and..."
url: https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/independent-living/
publisher: HomeCare.com
phone: 800-974-3458
start: https://care.homecare.com/?source=homecare.com
---

Types of care

# Independent living

Independent living is housing for older adults who can manage on their own. Communities often offer meals, social activities, transportation, and maintenance, but they do not provide personal care. Residents live in apartments or small homes. Some people add home care later if they need help.

## Why it matters for your family

Independent living suits people who want less upkeep and more company. It does not include daily care like bathing or medicine help. Many residents arrange outside help when needs change. A common mistake is expecting staff to provide care that the community does not offer. Ask what services are included, what costs extra, and whether outside caregivers may visit. Some independent living communities sit on a campus with assisted living and nursing care. Medicare does not pay for this housing. Compare it with staying at home with support. Visit at different times of day to see how busy and quiet the community feels.

Source: [nia.nih.gov](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assisted-living-and-nursing-homes/long-term-care-facilities-assisted-living-nursing-homes)

## Related terms

-   [**Assisted living**Assisted living is a residential setting for people who need help with daily tasks but not the full medical care of a nursing home.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/assisted-living/)
-   [**Continuing care retirement community (CCRC)**A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is a campus that offers independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care in one place.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/continuing-care-retirement-community/)
-   [**Aging in place**Aging in place means staying in your own home as you get older.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/aging-in-place/)
-   [**Home care**Home care is non-medical help for people who live at home, such as bathing, dressing, meals, housekeeping, errands, and company.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/home-care/)
-   [**Private pay**Private pay means a family pays for care directly from its own money.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/private-pay/)
-   [**Companion care**Companion care is non-medical home care that focuses on company and everyday help.](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/companion-care/)

[All glossary terms](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/)

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![A caregiver and an older woman sharing a laugh at home](https://homecare.preview.multisites.ai/_astro/companionship.Cj0N08Ks_1FwPmX.webp)