With more housing options available now than ever before, seniors have many residences in which they can spend their “golden years.”

The topic of senior housing is a confusing one at best. Today, there are many residence options available for seniors who are living longer, more independent lives. The trouble can be deciding upon the type of housing that’s right for you and your family, and overcoming the “nursing home” stigma.

And nowhere is there a wider varioety of senior housing choices available than right here on the Kitsap Peninsula.

While the home in which you’ve raised your family may be close to your heart, by retirement age, many seniors begin to feel that their current residence is either too large or too much of a burden to continue to maintain. As such, the search is on for a place to spend their “golden years.” There are several options available to you depending upon your level of independence and health. Here’s a brief rundown on the choices to consider:

Auxillary Dwelling Units — For those seeking the security and familiarity of being around family, Auxillary Dwelling Units or ADU’s as defined by the Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan, are homes that boast an “in-law” suite. Typically, these homes are characterized by a main living area for the family and a small apartment, which may have a bedroom, living area, bathroom and kitchenette for a couple or single person. The apartment may be accessed through the main house, have its own entry, or both. While advantageous, this living arrangement can pose problems for younger family members not equipped to handle the health or care issues required by their senior tenant. Many family members, in an effort to stave off a nursing home, take in an ailing mother, father or grandparent without realizing it can be a full-time job.

Active lifestyle — Active adult communities, also referred to as resort communities, attract both retired persons and those nearing retirement age who wish to get a start on owning a place where they will eventually retire. Many are gated communities and offer amenities typical of a resort, such as a pool, golf club, exercise rooms and more.

Independent/congregate living — If you’re an active senior in good health, then an independent living also known as congregate living community or residence may be the ideal situation. These homes range from age-restricted housing communities where you own your own condominium or patio home to residences that are more like hotels, complete with housekeeping services, meals, and activities. In most cases, buses are available to transport you to area shopping and other planned retreats. Some communities have their own bank, supermarket, hair salon and houses of worship on the grounds so that residents can have easy access. In addition, depending upon the setup of the residence, there may be living quarters and then a centralized dining area where meals are served or company is hosted.

Assisted living — For those who are still relatively independent but may require a visiting nurse or need minimal assistance, like bathing or dressing, assisted living facilities can provide the care you need. Health-care services are provided on the grounds or may be from a neighboring hospital or medical center.

Nursing homes — Seniors who require round-the-clock medical care may seek out nursing home situations. This is pretty much the only option for those who have deteriorating mental or physical capabilities or great difficulty with daily activities.

Continuing care — These facilities marry independent, assisted and nursing care living. They are often large communities over acres of land that offer different sectors of care, dependent upon qualifying factors. As you age or become unable to care for yourself, you simply move from independent living to assisted living to nursing scenarios. Most even have specialized care for Alzheimer’s sufferers. This presents the best option for seniors who want the security of knowing they’ll be cared for as they move through the years without having to relocate to different facilities.

Private care facilities have several benefits, but also come with pricey monthly fees. Depending upon the level of care, facilities may charge upwards of several thousands of dollars per month. It is wise to consult with a financial planner or accountant to see how much, if any, of these costs can be covered by Medicare, Medicaid or other government assistance. In addition, some facilities may have waiting lists, so be sure to call ahead and inquire about the application process and wait time for entering one of these residences.

The National Association of Realtors now has a professional designation for real estate professionals specializing in senior housing — the Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES). SRES are practitioners who specialize in housing options for buyers 50 and older.