Retiree Chooses Homeownership Over Costly Assisted Living for Independence
Lana Mountford, a 74-year-old retiree from Bellingham, Washington, opted to purchase a small home after finding assisted living too expensive. Initially, Mountford moved into an assisted living facility costing $7,000 per month, but rising costs and reduced services prompted her to seek alternative living arrangements. In 2024, she bought a two-bedroom house in a senior living development, allowing her to live independently with the help of a part-time caregiver. This decision reflects a growing trend among retirees who prefer homeownership to maintain independence and manage costs effectively. 
