Apartments aren’t just for college students, recent graduates, and young couples — they can be an excellent option for older adults, too!
Senior apartments are exactly what they sound like — apartments located in senior living communities for residents who love their independence, but are ready for a little less responsibility than a patio home. Senior apartments offer less maintenance than homes, a potentially lower cost, and plenty to do.
“Seniors often choose an independent living apartment because they want to downsize and be done with lawn maintenance and snow removal,” says Anna Gallagher, assistant vice president of marketing & communications at Otterbein SeniorLife. “But once they’ve been living in an apartment for a while, they come to value so much more about the experience.”
So, what are the benefits of living in an apartment in a senior community? Think convenience, social interaction, safety, and cost savings. We’ve rounded up a few examples.
1. Maintenance-Free Senior Living Accommodations
Apartment living can give you time back since you don’t have to tend a yard or do home repairs yourself. That means more time to relax, socialize, and engage in activities that are important to you.
Another time-saver? The convenience of having the community’s amenities so close by — the hair salon, bank, and fitness center are often just a short stroll (or golf cart ride) away.
This Ultimate Guide to Life at Otterbein Can Answer Your Questions >>
2. Convenience of Cooking at Home or Dining at an On-Site Restaurant
When it’s time to eat, you can cook at home or visit an on-site restaurant to enjoy a meal.
“Our residents love getting together for meals at our campus grill or dining room,” says Gallagher. “They’re wonderful gathering places for residents to enjoy, whether they’re having a meal prepared by our chef or choosing a quick grab-and-go option with friends.”
3. Find Activities (and New Friends) Galore at CCRCs
Senior living communities offer a full schedule of activities every day of the week. Special events, educational courses, socials, and volunteer opportunities mean you can be as busy as you want all year.
And with so many neighbors in your apartment building, you’ll likely find people who share your interests. You won’t have to go to that woodworking class or book club alone!
4. Safety Measures In and Out of the Apartment
Active adult communities emphasize resident safety, both inside your apartment and when you’re out and about. Apartment units have safety features like grab bars in the bathtub, non-slip surfaces, and an emergency call system.
Security staff also help monitor residents and can come to their aid whenever needed.
Related: You may be aging solo – but you don’t have to do it alone >>
5. Senior Apartments Typically Cost Less Than Owning a Home
Living in an apartment at a senior lifestyle community can significantly decrease expenses compared to owning a house.
Download this Free Cost Comparison Guide to See How Much You Could Save >>
If something goes wrong with the thermostat, the key won’t work on the front door lock, or your sink gets backed up, no problem — simply call maintenance and wait for someone to fix it.
Some active adult communities, such as Otterbein SeniorLife, offer repairs at no extra cost. And when the time comes to fill out your tax return, you can rest assured that property taxes won’t be part of the equation.
Hear From Otterbein SeniorLife Residents On What They Love Most About Living in a Senior Living Apartment
With so many upsides, it’s no wonder that apartments are often in high demand in senior living communities. In the video below, you’ll hear from a few Otterbein Lebanon residents on what they love about their apartments at the newly-renovated Phillippi Hall.
This blog was originally published in 2018. It was updated in 2025.
