Traditional C.C.R.Cs operate under an assortment of contractual arrangements. Some have high buy-in fees, refundable to varying degrees after a residents death; others function more like rentals. Depending on luxury and geography, they tend to serve seniors who are financially comfortable.

Often, residents sell their houses to pay entrance fees that average $107,000 to $427,000, according to a report from LeadingAge, the trade association representing nonprofit senior care providers. (LeadingAge has rebranded these entities life plan communities.) Monthly fees range from $2,100 to $4,200.

Its a great solution for people who either have means or good retirement plans, some wealth built up, said Ruth Katz, senior vice president of public policy and advocacy at LeadingAge.

So far, the at-home programs carry lower price tags, though members still pay for housing and other living costs. At Senior Choice at Home in Florida, Mr. Ahmadi said, a 75-year-old would probably pay $55,000 to $60,000 in entrance fees and about $525 a month.

At Springpoint Choice, which has about 270 members in New Jersey and Delaware, initial fees run $30,000 to $65,000, with monthly charges of $300 to $500. All the fees are tax deductible.

If in a year they have a life-changing event, they could be paying $400 a month for skilled nursing, which on the East Coast typically costs $13,000 a month, Ms. Laidman said.

Ms. Basso joined Springpoint Choice at a bargain rate. Because she has good long-term care insurance, her entrance fee was a discounted $25,790; she paid it with the sale of her New Jersey house and her parents condo. Her $128 monthly fee has since increased to $146.

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A Retirement Community That Comes to You - The New York Times