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A residence close to shops, transport and local life lets you keep your daily routine and remain fully independent.
Guides & info
Choosing the right senior services residence
An important decision deserves to be made calmly. This practical guide will help you compare options, ask the right questions and find the residence that truly suits you.
Why this approach
A senior services residence: for whom, and why?
A senior services residence (in French, residence services seniors or RSS) is designed for independent older people — generally from 60 or 65 years old — who want to leave a home that has become too large or too isolated, while keeping their independence. It sits between staying at home (which can lead to isolation and family concern) and the EHPAD (nursing home with medical care, for people who have lost their independence).
Choosing a senior residence means calmly preparing for the years ahead: an adapted apartment, a la carte services, a rich social life, reassuring 24/7 presence, and the freedom to come and go as you wish, see whomever you choose, and keep your own GP. The right time to look into it? Before it becomes urgent, so you can decide calmly and on your own terms.
Understanding the options
Senior services residence vs EHPAD: what is the difference?
The senior services residence (RSS) is for independent people who want to live in a private flat while benefiting from a la carte services. You are at home, with your own keys and furniture, free to come and go without any obligation.
The EHPAD (nursing home with medical care), by contrast, is a medicalised establishment for dependent people who require permanent healthcare support. The senior services residence therefore sits between home and the nursing home: the freedom of your own place, with the reassurance of services on top.
Method
Criteria to weigh up
To compare residences calmly, take the time to assess each of these essential points.
Included and a la carte services
Dining, housekeeping, laundry, administrative support: check what is included in the rent and what you can pick freely.
Comfort and accessibility
Single-level apartments, walk-in showers, bright spaces: daily comfort and clever layout truly make the difference.
Social life and activities
Workshops, outings, friendly common areas: a rich community life is the best safeguard against isolation.
Safety and 24/7 presence
Staff on site day and night, personal alarm system, secure access: peace of mind for the resident and their family.
Budget and financial support
Compare the total cost and look into available benefits (APL, APA, tax credit) to estimate your real out-of-pocket cost.
Worth keeping in mind
The right questions to ask
During your visit, do not hesitate to ask the team about the points that really matter to you.
- What exactly does the monthly rent include, and which charges are added on top?
- Is it possible to trial the residence with a short stay before committing?
- Are pets accepted within the residence?
- May I keep my own GP and usual healthcare providers?
- What activities are offered, and how often?
- How does the residence support a possible loss of independence?
Our best piece of advice
Try before you choose
Nothing replaces experience. Before deciding, live the residence from the inside: it is the best way to know whether you feel at home there.
The short discovery stay
Settle in for a week or more in a ready-to-move-in apartment and enjoy every service. The best way to picture yourself there, with complete freedom.
Discover our short staysOpen days
Visit the residence, meet the teams and residents, and chat freely with us during our open days.
See upcoming datesReady to find your residence?
Ready to find your residence?
Our advisers will help you compare and choose the residence that matches your wishes. Free quote, no obligation.