Assisted Living - which is better?

[Harpsichord23]

Looking at options for parents who are 90+ and have been living independently, but are getting to the stage where they need some help…. They still would like their own apartment at this stage.
The assisted living options seem to vary between those that cater for active residents only and ones where they have care facilities in some floors, and active residents in other.
At their age, are they better off moving to a retirement home where they can stay if they need additional care, rather than have to move again?
Also, buy or rent? Buying at their age doesn’t seem to make sense but I am not finding many rental options.

Definitely agree that there is a huge benefit in communal living. DD’s in-‘laws moved to a place like this when they were 70. They quickly made friends which was a blessing when MiL became very ill and eventually bedridden. He has been widowed 5 years now and has a very active Social life. He is planning a helicopter ride for him and friend for his 90th birthday next month.

I would buy if I could because they don’t want to be moving again if the landlord decides to sell. These homes are usually put up for rental only when the heirs have problems selling.

If Surrey is in reach then Elmbridge Village just outside Cranleigh has both; so does Birtley House (although that’s v expensive and more of a large home than a community).