Where Will You Live as You Grow Older?

Many people would rather not think about the consequences of aging in general, much less the possibility that they might need help meeting their daily medical or personal needs in the future. Yet recent research projects that most Americans (56%) who are age 65 or older will require long-term care support and services in their lifetimes.1



For this reason, there may come a time when you rethink the practicality of your living situation. And planning ahead could help ensure that you will have access to the type of care you need, in the setting that you prefer, as you age. Here are some common options to consider.

Your home

Given a choice, you might prefer to receive care in your own home, as it offers a measure of independence in a familiar environment. Family caregivers, friends, or paid workers could assist with everyday tasks, and professionals such as nurses and home health aides could provide home health care. In addition, a variety of community support services may be available, including adult day-care centers and transportation services.

Assisted living facilities

If you want to remain independent but need some help with activities of daily living on a regular basis, you might choose to live in an assisted living facility. These home-like facilities offer housing, meals, and custodial care (help with bathing, dressing, housecleaning, etc.) but generally not medical or nursing services.

Continuing care retirement communities

Also known as life plan communities, CCRCs provide a range of services — from independent living to full-time skilled nursing care — all in the same location, allowing you to age in place. The housing options offered by CCRCs may include townhouses or cottages for independent living, assisted living apartments, and nursing home accommodations.

Why People Need Care

Why people need care: 47% have an age-related physical limitation; 32% experience cognitive impairment; 24% suffer from a chronic illness; 23% need rehabilitation from an accident; 10% suffer from acute illness

Source: Genworth, 2021 (multiple responses allowed)

Nursing homes

Nursing homes are generally the most expensive (and least desirable) option, but they are often a last resort for those with serious health conditions who can no longer take care of themselves. State-licensed nursing facilities offer more specialized skilled care, custodial care, and intermediate care — which is for individuals who were hospitalized and require rehabilitation and additional support until they are well enough to return home.

1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2022

This information is not intended as tax, legal, investment, or retirement advice or recommendations, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek guidance from an independent tax or legal professional. The content is derived from sources believed to be accurate. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. This material was written and prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions. © 2024 Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

Back to Newsletters

Investment and Insurance Products are:

  • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency
  • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate
  • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

This information is intended for use only by residents of (AK, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, ID, IL, KY, MA, ME, MO, NC, NE, NV, NY, TN, TX, WA, WI). Securities-related services may not be provided to individuals residing in any state not listed above. Please consult with the FA as s/he may not be registered in all states.

For parties residing outside of the U.S., this information is: (i) provided for informational purposes only, (ii) not and should not be construed in any manner as an offer to participate in any investment or to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments, and (iii) not and should not be construed in any manner as a public offering of any financial services, securities or related financial instruments. Products and services listed may not be available, or may have restrictions, depending on client country of residence.

Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN). Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC and WFAFN, Members SIPC, separate registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. Any other referenced entity is a separate entity from WFAFN.

Insurance products are offered through nonbank insurance agency affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies.

A note about Social Media: Opinions, comments and actions taken on Social Media are those of the third party and do not necessarily reflect the views of the creator of this profile or of the firm. Social Media is intended for U.S. residents only and subject to the following terms: wellsfargoadvisors.com/social.


© 2022 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

FINRA’s BrokerCheck Obtain more information about our firm and its financial professionals

FINRA’s BrokerCheck Obtain more information about our firm and its financial professionalsX