Glossary
Independent living
Independent living is age-restricted housing for older adults who need no daily care, with meals, housekeeping and activities offered as services rather than care.
There is no state care license and no care staff; residents arrange any help privately or through a home care agency. Pricing is rent plus a service package.
Related terms
Active adult community
An active adult community is age-restricted housing, usually 55 and over, that residents own or rent, with amenities but no care services or meals.
Continuing care retirement community (CCRC)
A continuing care retirement community offers independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing on one campus under a long-term contract, so residents can move between levels of care without leaving.
In-home care
In-home care is non-medical help at home with bathing, dressing, meals, housekeeping, errands and companionship, provided by a caregiver from a licensed agency or hired privately.
Definitions reviewed September 5, 2026. Rules vary by state and change over time; confirm specifics with the community and the licensing agency.