Where do Americans live after 85? Look inside the homes of 11 seniors

As aging Americans require more care, the choice of where to live is a crucial consideration. A recent analysis of census data by The Washington Post reveals that less than 10 percent of individuals aged 85 and older reside in nursing homes. The majority, approximately half of the 5.9 million Americans in this age group, live with family members, including spouses and adult children. Over 40 percent live independently or in assisted living facilities. At the same time, a quarter reside in multigenerational households, where two or more generations share the same living space. About 8 percent of individuals in this demographic live in nursing homes or memory care facilities.

To provide a more nuanced understanding, The Washington Post interviewed 11 individuals about their choices for aging living arrangements, and their experiences closely align with the census findings. The diverse living situations include family cohabitation, independent or assisted living, multigenerational households, and nursing homes or memory care facilities. These personal stories shed light on people’s varied decisions as they navigate aging and care considerations.

For more information see Rachel Lerman and Federica Cocco “Where do Americans live after 85? Look inside the homes of 11 Seniors”, The Washington Post, December 8, 2023.

Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.