Senior Living may also include "assisted living communities" are for those who want an independent lifestyle but who may need assistance for their individual needs. In these communities, seniors are made to feel like they're independent and have the peace of mind knowing that their specific daily needs are met. These needs include daily meals, dressing, bathing, help with medication, transportation and personal mobility.

Most assisted living communities also provide (at extra cost) housekeeping, access to health services, Alzheimer’s care, staff available for personal needs, 24-hour security, an emergency call system, exercise programs, medication management, personal laundry service, and social and recreational activities. Communities typically consist of apartments of multiple units from single rooms to full apartments. Some are even in subdivided houses with live-in staff. They can be operated by for-profit or non-profits companies.

Assisted living facilities give seniors support in five main areas: medication management, transportation, meal preparation, bathing and dressing (other services such as laundry and housekeeping are generally included). Some assisted living facilities allow pets and ideally social support from peers is allowable, too

In the best assisted living scenario, residents form close bonds with their neighbors. For high quality of life it’s critical to find a good social match, not just a facility that meets basic needs.