Assisted living comes by many names, such as residential care, board and care, or group homes. Assisted living residences or assisted living facilities provide supervision or assistance with activities of daily living. Retirement homes are also called retirement residences. More than two-thirds of the states use the licensure term assisted living. You do not need to provide medical evidence that you need a minimum level of care. Assisted living comes by many names, such as residential care, board and care, or group homes. Staff is available twenty-four hours a day. Each state licensing agency has its own definition of the term it uses to describe assisted living. Nursing Home residents include the elderly and younger adults with physical or mental disabilities. There is a wide range of home care services that can help you maintain your independence within the comfort of your own home, from in home help to day care. Retirement villages and retirement communities, unlike retirement homes, offer separate and autonomous homes for residents. There is a wide range of home care services that can help you maintain your independence within the comfort of your own home, from in home help to day care. Assistance may include the administration or supervision of medication, or personal care services provided by a trained staff person. You do not need to provide medical evidence that you need a minimum level of care. A retirement home differs from a nursing home primarily in the level of medical care given. Some facilities provide minor help with medications as well. A nursing home may be a good choice if both medical and personal care needs have become too great to handle at home. Retirement villages and retirement communities, unlike retirement homes, offer separate and autonomous homes for residents. Generally, retirement homes are designed for seniors who need minimal to moderate support with their daily living activities. Housing arrangements for the future can be a stressful, anxiety-provoking topic for you and your family.