Quick answer
Senior apartments are age-restricted rental apartments, usually for people 55 or 62 and older. They offer a smaller, easier home, often with an elevator, community room and on-site maintenance, but usually no meals or personal care. Some are market-rate; others are income-restricted housing for older adults with limited incomes. (800) 614-8388 and we'll help you find options near you.
Senior apartments vs. other options
| Option | Meals and services | Care | Typical setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior apartment | Usually none, or a few activities | No | Rental, age-restricted |
| Independent living | Meals, housekeeping, activities included | No | Rental with services |
| 55+ community | Usually none | No | Often owned homes |
| Assisted living | Included | Yes | Apartment with daily help |
If your parent needs meals or daily help, look at independent living or assisted living instead.
What to look for
- Elevator, step-free entry, grab bars and good lighting.
- Laundry in the unit or on each floor.
- Parking, and bus or senior transportation nearby.
- Close to family, doctors, groceries and church.
- A community room or activities if company matters.
- Lease terms, pet rules, and what happens if your parent later needs care.
Income-restricted senior apartments
Many senior apartment buildings are built with public funding and limit rent for people with lower incomes. The HUD Section 202 program, for example, serves very low-income households where at least one person is 62 or older. These buildings often have waiting lists. See low income senior housing.
How to search in the Kansas City area
Start with your Area Agency on Aging (Johnson County Aging and Human Services on the Kansas side; MARC on the Missouri side), or the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116. Ask about both market-rate and income-restricted buildings. Visit at different times of day.
Looking for a simpler place to live?
We'll help you compare senior apartments, independent living and other options near you. Free.
Questions families ask
What age do you have to be for senior apartments?
Most are for people 55 and older or 62 and older, depending on the building and its funding.
Do senior apartments provide care?
Usually not. Residents can bring in home care if needed.
Are senior apartments cheaper than independent living?
Usually, because meals and services aren't included. Compare what each fee covers.
Is there a waiting list?
Income-restricted buildings often have waiting lists. Apply to several.