Yes, there are many senior living options in and around Fairfield, California. Some older adults look for independent senior living spaces that resemble a home. One common choice is cottages for senior living. These cottage-style residences are often available within larger retirement communities.
At The Village at Rancho Solano, we offer assisted living and memory care apartments. Our community is situated near the Rancho Solano Golf Course and the Hilborn Open Space Preserve, offering floor plan options with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Before you make a decision, it’s helpful to understand how cottages for seniors compare to traditional senior living apartments.
What Are Retirement Cottages?
Retirement cottages are private, stand-alone homes designed for older adults. These are often found in continuing care retirement communities, also called CCRCs. Most cottage homes are one to two bedrooms and may include features like a garage, small yard, or porch. Residents enjoy privacy and space while remaining part of a larger community.
Senior living cottages work well for those who are independent and can manage daily living on their own, but prefer a maintenance-free environment. These communities offer landscaping, light housekeeping, and may include access to meals, a fitness center, and community events. They provide a mix of autonomy and convenience.
Some cottage communities operate under a buy-in model. A one-time entrance fee, which can be quite large, secures a home and access to future care. Residents then pay a monthly fee that covers services and amenities.
The idea is to provide a full continuum of care within one community, from independent living to assisted living cottages and, if needed, nursing care.
Over time, a resident in a cottage may move into an apartment closer to the main services or into a different part of the community as needs increase. Cottage residents typically continue to pay for levels of care as they transition.
What About Senior Living Apartments?
Assisted living and memory care apartments provide a different style of support. These are traditional apartment-style homes, located within a single building or shared campus. Options may include studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartments. Some even offer patios and outdoor access.
At The Village at Rancho Solano, our assisted living apartments provide access to fitness classes, restaurant-style dining, and other amenities.
There is no large entrance fee. Instead, residents pay a one-time community fee, followed by a monthly fee based on the services received. This offers flexibility and helps families better manage long-term expenses or life’s various stages.
Senior living communities like ours support older adults who want to age in place without taking on a large financial commitment. For individuals with memory loss or cognitive changes, our Connections memory care program offers structure and peace of mind through trained team members and supportive services.
Senior living apartments offer spacious living and privacy, similar to cottage homes. They also create opportunities for social connection and round-the-clock support. Residents enjoy shared common areas, on-site care, and coordinated services like bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation.
Cottages vs. Apartments: What to Ask Yourself
Here are some questions to help guide your decision:
- Do you want a private yard or porch, or are you comfortable in a shared building? (Some apartments come with a balcony or porch).
- Are you physically independent and able to walk longer distances?
- Are you comfortable with an entrance fee, or do you prefer month-to-month rent?
- Do you want to be near a fitness center or dining room without traveling outside?
- Are you prepared for potential transitions in care?
- Do you want the option to access assisted living and memory care in the same community?
If cottage living sounds appealing, consider exploring retirement cottages within 55+ or independent living communities. These settings offer long-term planning, often for residents who expect to stay in the same location for 10 or more years.
Cottages for retirement typically require a significant buy-in fee and financial planning support. If you’re not ready to commit to that kind of model or prefer financial flexibility, a senior living apartment within a month-to-month community may be a better fit.
Compare Cottages for Senior Living to The Village at Rancho Solano
Our senior living community offers a full range of care without a large upfront cost. Residents enjoy comfortable living spaces, access to daily activities, and a supportive team.
If needs change, our team helps coordinate a smooth transition into memory care. We partner with families to provide a consistent experience for their loved ones.
Senior living communities like ours also offer practical benefits:
- No home maintenance or repairs
- All meals and utilities included
- Scheduled transportation
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Access to 24-hour support
- Regular wellness checks
- Personalized care for daily living
- Opportunities for social engagement
While we don’t offer independent living cottages, assisted living is a great option for older adults who want access to support without a large entrance fee.
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Explore Senior Living Spaces Near You
Whether you’re exploring senior retirement cottages or considering senior living apartments, it’s important to weigh your priorities. For some, cottage living offers privacy and space. For others, apartments with access to assisted living or memory care make the most sense.
Schedule a tour of The Village at Rancho Solano to see how our senior living options can help you or your loved one enjoy retirement with peace of mind.