UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
Cornerstone guide · ElderCareCosts Research
Levels of Care in Senior Living
Senior living levels usually run from independent living (housing + amenities) to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Labels vary by state license.
Not medical advice. This page compares cost and logistics. It does not diagnose, treat, or recommend clinical care; talk with a clinician about health decisions.
The basics
Match the setting to daily needs (bathing, meds, nights, memory safety), not to a brochure’s marketing name.
CCRCs contract for a path across levels on one campus; ask what triggers a move and how fees change.
Sources
- ACL.gov. Aging and community living context across housing and support options
- Medicare.gov. Long-term care. Federal framing of long-term care settings and Medicare coverage limits
- Medicare.gov. Skilled nursing facility care. Skilled nursing as a higher medical-need level than typical assisted living
Related
Not sure which of these apply to your family?
We find licensed options near you, with the cost data we publish and payment options flagged. Data stays free either way.