Marvelous experience for you and a lovely bit of great story telling for us, Williamsmith!
I wish Americans weren't so set on staying in their houses until they can hardly function. The right group living situation can be so much healthier and allow for so much more happiness.
When mum turned 80 and not handling housework, yard work, and driving at all well, I convinced her to sell her house of 41 years and moved all her things into a lovely assisted living facility. She kicked and screamed the months before the month.
A few months later, she LOVED living in her new smaller home. Far less work, far more social opportunities, and fun field trips. Medical resources were close by so doctor visits were much easier.
I see my older friends isolated in their houses, exhausted from care giving spouses, and overwhelmed at the thought of reducing their belongings to sell the house and move. Many do not have family help at all.
If only they had moved into a group situation or at least a condo with wheelchair - size doorways, etc, when they were in their 60s or early 70s.