This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Lana Mountford, 74, who lives in Bellingham, Washington. Mountford tried an assisted living facility that cost $7,000 a month, but it was too expensive and not a good fit. She purchased a small two-bedroom house in 2024 and lives independently with a part-time caregiver who charges $35 per hour. This interview is edited for length and clarity.

I married before turning 20 and divorced in 1986. Since then I have largely been on my own without children and without a college degree. I began saving for retirement in my twenties and later worked with financial planners to manage my money.

I worked as a civilian for the Department of Defense with the Army before moving into the private sector in Silicon Valley as an IT professional. I retired in 2003 to return to school and earned an undergraduate degree in music.

Afterward I faced health problems including a non-malignant brain tumor that left some lasting effects. I traveled using a dedicated fund and was on a world cruise when the pandemic began. My breathing difficulties led doctors to discover blood clots in both lungs, which prompted my move into assisted living in 2021.

Bellingham attracts many retirees so numerous assisted living options exist. I chose one three blocks from my prior residence because it offered comfortable independent housing while recognizing tasks that had become difficult. I hoped the community would allow a smooth transition from independent living to assisted living to memory care if needed.

I moved into an assisted living facility

I took a small one-bedroom apartment for $4,300 a month. My brother and his wife moved into my former house. Within three months the rent rose to $4,650. Two assigned caretakers visited twice daily checked on me and handled laundry but regular housekeeping was not included. Cable WiFi and optional meals were provided and an emergency cord was available in the room.

A few weeks after moving in I underwent major surgery that caused kidney damage.

I needed more space because I enjoy cooking so I transferred to a two-bedroom apartment for roughly $5,500 a month. Over time the facility reduced services for independent residents. I performed my own laundry lost regular caretakers and received only fifteen minutes of weekly housekeeping. I hired outside help several times a week for laundry and other challenging tasks.

The monthly rent kept increasing

The rent soon reached $6,850 and I chose to leave about two years ago. Continued payments at that level would have depleted my savings when I could instead own a home with a full kitchen. A house on the same street became available so I made an offer and purchased it. My caregiver assisted with packing and moving.

The house sits in a senior living community and is the smallest there. It measures 1,350 square feet with two bedrooms two bathrooms and a one-car garage. Guided by my financial advisers I paid $580,000 in cash after several counteroffers. All homes in the area were designed for older adults so they include grab bars and single-level layouts that limit walking distances.

I cover maintenance and property taxes including a $17,000 roof replacement. Because I do not drive my gas bill is about $60 monthly and electric costs range from $35 in winter to $100 in summer. I use Instacart for groceries and the HOA manages yard care.

The same caregiver visits three days a week for six hours total and earns about $200 weekly. I intend to add hours later which should still cost far less than the assisted living fees. As a strong introvert I did not miss the social environment and I enjoy quiet time with books arts and crafts.

My health continues to decline

I live with COPD asthma and hereditary high blood pressure along with chronic kidney disease that may require dialysis. Severe osteoarthritis makes mobility difficult so I use a walker. I have kept the same physicians which provides reassurance.

My greatest concern is falling because of my size. I remain determined to stay independent and perform tasks myself. My caregiver demonstrates easier methods for certain activities. Everyday activities that once felt simple have become complicated puzzles. When she lacks certification or comfort for a task she connects me with local professionals.

I also worry about future equipment needs or home modifications if I require a wheelchair and I tend to delay such planning.

Some positive aspects remain

With no family history of dementia I am not overly concerned about that possibility. I do not expect to need overnight care soon. Knowing my brother lives nearby brings comfort because he helps with small chores such as taking out the trash.

I have told others I plan to remain in the house until the end. The setting is attractive and secure beside protected wetlands. Only death will prompt me to leave.