So many types of housing have emerged to serve maturing adults in America.  Simplified categories would be defined as follows:

Active Adult Communities -- generally for the 55+ population, usually single-family homes with heavy emphasis on community amenities such as golf, fitness, clubhouse, social events.  No longer restricted to sunbelt states, active adults communities are springing up everywhere today to serve early retirees who prefer to live near their roots.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) -- these retirement villages generally include a wide range of housing and service options, from active retirement living in detached dwellings are apartments through skilled nursing care.  Many times, there is an entry fee which may or may not entitle residents to free or discounted care on site as the need may arise.  Typically restricted to age 62+.

Congregate Care, or Full-service Retirement Communities -- Usually offered on a rental basis, these communities are more aptly described as land-locked cruise ships.  Residents live in private apartments with access to a wide variety of services and amenities on site.  Housekeeping, maintenance, meals, activities and transportation are typically ncluded in the monthly fee. There is a growing emphasis on wellness of mind, body and spirit, through a well rounded schedule that fosters active aging.

Assisted Living -- included as part of a CCRC but also offered as "stand-alone" buildings, assisted living is for those who can function independently with assistance; it is not for those who require 24-hour nursing care.  24-hour staffing is on hand to respond to emergencies, monitor residents' wellbeing, ensure meals and activities are attended, and give medication reminders.  Licensing and staffing requirements vary from state to state.
 
Alzheimer's Care -- This specialized type of housing has emerged only in the past five years or so to provide 24-hour residential care and relief to families and caregiving spouses of those affected by Alzheimer's or related dementia.  Specially designed, staffed and programmed, these residences, when operated by a reputable organization, can bring out the best in everyone involved.

"Skilled Nursing Facilities" or SNFs provide Medicare-certified nursing care for rehabilitation after surgery or illness.  Long-term care is also available in most nursing homes.

Old Folks Home -- Note: this type of housing has long ago disappeared from our horizon, if not our vocabularies.