When it comes time for a senior to move from their home, take heart. There are a variety of senior living facilities out there, designed for nearly every need and budget.

Independent Living Communities

As the name implies, these senior living facilities are intended for seniors who are able to see to their own personal care needs. The perks of an independent living community include access to a large group of peers, a secure living environment, and a more manageable living space.

Popular amenities: Many independent living communities offer housekeeping services. Some are set up like vacation wonderlands, with golf courses, pools, tennis courts, and more. Another popular feature is social programming, which runs the gamut from intellectual speakers to talent shows.

What to look for: The layout of all senior living facilities should take into account the seniors who will live there, and independent living communities are no different. Be sure streets are wide and well-lit, and that parking is easy. Stairs should be kept to a minimum and should have sturdy railings. Look to see that walkways are well-maintained and well-lit, and that amenities like club houses or exercise facilities are located at the center of the grounds instead of off at one end.

Assisted Living Facilities

These senior living facilities are meant for seniors who need help with personal care tasks like bathing or toileting, but who don't have daily medical needs. Assisted living facilities typically have apartment-like rooms for residents, allowing them a measure of privacy, but have staff available at all times and provide meals in a common dining area.

Popular amenities: Look for an assisted living facility with engaging social programs and good transportation options. A facility near a bus or tram line gives seniors added independence, and a facility with attractive outdoor space allows seniors to get fresh air and exercise. (Outdoor space should feature shade and benches for resting.)

What to look for: Staff and residents who are well-kept and friendly. Nutritious meals. Grab-bars in bathrooms and call buttons in restrooms and bedrooms. Railings in hallways. Sprinkler systems.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes are senior living facilities that combine personal care assistance with medical care. Medical care can range from the management of chronic conditions to rehabilitation care. Most nursing homes have both single and shared rooms and provide common meals.

Popular amenities: One of the most popular amenities of nursing home is that they are basically the only Medicaid-funded option out of senior living facilities. Outside of this, amenities are largely the same as in an assisted living center, such as engaging social programming with activities aimed at a range of capabilities and menu choices for meals.

What to look for: A low nurse-to-resident ratio. Be sure residents aren't just parked in front of TVs during the day and that you don't notice any unpleasant odors. Look for the same safety features that you would in an assisted living facility.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

These senior living facilities combine independent living, assisted living, and nursing care on one campus.

Popular amenities: The main draw of a CCRC is the ability to move in between facilities as needs arise.

What to look for: CCRCs typically charge a premium for the convenience factor. Be sure you understand just how much you're paying for this, and consider what amenities of a stand-alone facility you may be sacrificing as well.