Seniors seeking some services to accompany their leisure activities might consider independent living communities, which consist mostly of rental properties such as apartments or condos, but can sometimes be purchased.

Residents pay a monthly fee for access to dining facilities, as well as other luxuries such as housekeeping, transportation and recreation. The majority do not provide help with daily activities such as medication or bathing.

"It's like college life, but at a slower pace," says Pam Campbell, marketing director of highly rated Byron Park in Walnut Creek, Calif. "I think life span increases sometimes when you live in a community like this. You have support - a social network - someone checking up on you."

Nancy and Henry Lennstrom moved to Byron Park 11 years ago after tiring of the cold weather in Seattle. "They have something for everyone," says Nancy, 84. "They have a huge activities program, gourmet food and I love the pool!"

Costs for independent living vary nationwide. Byron Park offers 17 different floor plans with the cost of a one-bedroom unit starting at $3,860 a month and a 1,300-square-foot two-bedroom apartment at $5,515 a month.

— additional reporting by Staci Giordullo and Meranda Watling