As our lives progress and change, so do our living needs; each life stage we enter has different priorities and requirements. Our living arrangements are one of those things that change with each life stage. 

As a young student, living in a commune or sharing a flat is expected because, at that stage, financial resources are limited and sharing expenses makes sense. The thirties and forties often involve marriage, child-rearing, better access to finances and building a career.

When people become seniors, maintaining a large house is unrealistic and costly. It's advisable to scale living costs to something more manageable. If you’re a senior living in or around Seattle or planning to move to the city, there are some great housing communities to consider. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are affordable options available.

Factors To Consider Before Choosing A Housing Community

Location 

Is living near friends and family important to you? Do you want to be close to the beach or in the city? Ask yourself these questions before deciding on a location. Also consider what kind of living space you want: is it a flat? Will there be steps? You can view their floor plans to assist with decision-making. 

Cost 

Most of the time, the cost of the housing community will determine whether you choose it or not. When calculating the numbers, also factor in running costs such as utilities, levies, and  maintenance. So, even if you can afford the initial purchase price or deposit, the running costs may become too much when you have a limited income.

Healthcare Services

What kind of healthcare services are on offer? How frequently are the health services available and do they cater to your needs?

Activities and Services 

According to the National Institute of Health, exercise in older people helps reduce cardiac diseases, while being mentally active helps delay the onset of mental disorders like Alzheimer's. This is why the activities offered at a housing community are essential.

Community Atmosphere

The retirement home you choose will become your new home for the rest of your life and it should be a place that makes you feel safe, loved and welcome. 

Housing Communities in Seattle

Northaven West

This new community is located in the Northgate neighborhood and is across the Northaven Senior Living campus. The mall, railway and bus station are within walking distance. The apartment homes are available in studios and one-bedroom sets. 

Income qualifications restrictions apply and at least one occupant must be 62 years of age at application.  

Rent for a studio starts at $950, while rent for a one-bedroom will be around $ 1,050 (depending on income qualification). The units range from 316 - 454 sq ft. and they’re beautifully furnished, as well as offer comfortable living. 

Note:

     •  Even though the community is pet-friendly, there are regulations regarding breed and weight. 
     •  All pets must weigh 20 lbs or less and a maximum of two pets per apartment.

Cedar Park Senior Apartments

Cedar Park is ideal for low to medium-income senior citizens; the minimum age for applicants is 55. Their income restrictions are based on the pre-set limits of the specific area you are in, not on your household income. The apartments come in one or two-bedroom layouts that range from 464 sq ft to 658 sq ft. Rent starts at $999 and is capped at $1,491.

Note:

     •  There are no subsidies at Cedar Park, so the residents must pay their rent in full every month.
     •  This is a smoke-free community.

Judson Park

Judson Park is another senior community from the NGO Good Human Community and this community offers premium senior living with various options. 

There is residential living, which is independent living in one or two- bedroom apartments. You can continue living as you have but with better security facilities and other amenities. You can schedule in-home medical visits and further assistance when you need it. 

Fees cover meals, cleaning and maintenance, fitness classes, cable and Wi-Fi, and more. They also offer a thoughtful lifelong care plan. Rent for individual living apartments starts at $2,957 per month. 

Personalized assisted living is available for residents who need around-the-clock care; there is a 24-hour emergency call open. There is also short-stay care respite available. 

Judson Park may be at the pricey end of senior community living, but they have great amenities and superb views. Their apartments are spacious and well-furnished. 

Victoria Park

Victoria Park is close to Northwest Hospital and some popular attraction spots in Seattle. The apartments have views of Seattle and wonderful, spacious living spaces. 

Apartments are available in one and two bedrooms ranging between $1,221 and $1,830, and space of up to 763 square feet.

Lastly

Senior living accommodation averages $1,245 in Seattle, so if you plan on moving to a senior community, that is the number to plan around. Amenities, services and other extras contribute to that amount. There are programs in place to help with medical costs and other expenses.