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For older adults seeking alternatives to traditional retirement homes in France, there are several different options that promote independence while offering varying levels of support and community.

These alternatives cater to individuals who are still relatively autonomous but may no longer wish to live entirely alone.

Sheltered accommodation (résidences autonomie or résidences services séniors)

Sheltered accommodation is designed for those over 60 who are independent (classified as level 5 or 6 in the French dependency scale) and able-bodied. 

These residences typically consist of private studio or one-bedroom flats, which residents can furnish themselves.

This type of housing provides an independent and secure environment with the benefit of optional services such as catering, housekeeping, laundry, medical assistance, and leisure activities. 

While public-sector options often offer subsidised rents, high-end private residences may include luxury amenities and 24-hour nursing care.

To explore public sheltered accommodation options, visit - France’s official information site for older people and their caregivers, where you can search for a Résidence autonomie by location.

Grouped housing (habitats regroupés, Marpa or petites unités de vie)

Habitats regroupés exist in many towns where a cluster of independent homes for older people are grouped together. 

This grouped housing is ideal for those wanting to stay independent while benefiting from a supportive community environment. 

Habitats regroupés are usually located in town centres and may feature mobility adaptations, affordable rents, and services like meal delivery.

This type of accommodation may also be known as petites unités de vie or Marpa (maison d’accueil et de résidence pour personnes âgées - rural care and residential homes for the elderly). 

Marpa are found in rural areas and are particularly suited to seniors who prefer to live independently but stay in their own community with some support. 

Accommodation is in small flats with communal living areas. More information can be found at .

Another alternative is the ²úé²µ³Ü¾±²Ô²¹²µ±ð model—groups of around 10 to 20 small houses, traditionally used by religious communities, now repurposed for the general public.

Living with a host family (famille d’accueil)

Living with a host family is a cost-effective and personalised alternative to a retirement home. 

Accredited by the departmental council, host families can accommodate up to three elderly individuals, offering either permanent, temporary or part-time stays such as daytimes or weekends.

Meals are shared with the family, and residents may use support schemes such as APA (allocation personnalisée d’autonomie), housing benefit, or aide sociale to cover costs.

Organisations like , a non-profit care provider, help coordinate such arrangements.

Intergenerational living

Intergenerational housing schemes allow students to live with older adults in exchange for help with daily tasks, companionship, and a modest rent. 

These arrangements foster social interaction and mutual support, and are particularly popular in urban areas. 

Many of these programmes are managed by local associations. A list of schemes is available at .