Usually apartment or condominium complexes, these communities generally offer on-site amenities such as beauty salons, banks, fitness programs, and communal meals. They may even have a doctor who makes regular rounds.

• Is this the right option for the person I'm caring for? If he values his independence and isn't in need of daily care -- but perhaps is ready to stop driving, is starting to worry about his safety, or just wants more support and companionship -- an independent living community can be a great choice.