Most independent living facilities offer no services for the senior.  There are a variety of options for independent living including low rent or subsidized, stand alone buildings and independent living on a campus with other levels of care and services.  Independent living units are typically apartments in buildings where other seniors live.  The seniors who live there are independent with their activities of daily living and do not want the responsibility of maintaining a home or perhaps have given up driving limiting their socialization options.  The stand alone buildings rarely offer any type of services.  They may have a system for the seniors to alert management that they are safe on a daily basis.

If you are looking for a low rent or subsidized unit, the wait is often prolonged.  It may be months or even years for a unit to become available.  Proactive planning will help procure the unit when it is needed.  The rent for these apartments is based on the financial resources of the senior.  An elder law attorney or accountant can help you sort through finances and eligibility requirements.  The following address will get you started on the internet: portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/information_for_senior_citizens.