• self-contained flats with their own kitchen and bathroom 
• a laundry 
• a communal lounge 
• optional social activities 
• communal gardens 
• a guest room for overnight visitors 
• security and safety features 
• a warden or scheme manager 
• 24-hour emergency assistance through an alarm scheme.

Sheltered housing might appeal to you if you want to live independently, perhaps in a smaller and easier-to-manage home, and like the idea of having someone to call on if there is an emergency. While different schemes and providers may have different eligibility criteria, most schemes are open to people who are aged over 60.