"It is with heartfelt gratitude to know your continuous support and trust. You, being an advocate to the elders in finding a place for them to call ‘home’ for the remaining years, is such a commitment to be proud of.”

—Gina S. , (RCFE owner/administrator) 

Often, as we age and become less mobile, we also become socially isolated. Independent living communities (a.k.a. retirement communities) are designed to bring us closer to peers in a social environment. Such communities can range from senior apartments to "full service" communities offering meals, transportation, and various activities designed to meet the needs of residents. Some also have pools and health clubs included in the monthly rent. Resident councils help keep communication channels open between residents and management. Individual apartments may or may not include a full kitchen, depending on the meal plans offered, but generally include a kitchenette with refrigerator, sink, cabinets, and space for a microwave. Rent is month-to-month in most full-service communities, but a front end community fee is typically charged.

Assisted living services are often also available in these communities (typically in a separate building). The apartments and services are similar to those in independent living, but 24 hour staff is available to assist residents with activities of daily living on an as-needed basis. For example, perhaps a resident with severe arthritis needs assistance dressing.

 Another resident receives medication reminders and/or assistance ordering and administering medications. A third resident may be wheelchair dependent, and needs assistance with transfers, dressing, and bathing. Such communities are licensed and monitored by the state (in California: Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing) as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE).