I think them buying a SFH is a terrible idea. I have argued against it. My sister has argued against it. They would be much better off with a condo, apartment, anything else with no maintenance. My mother insists. (My mother has... quirks.) However, she's also fairly practical. I'm hoping that by the time we get to the point of actually looking at houses, we can switch to something more realistic. My sister is on my side, and she's usually pretty good about convincing dad. If we can convince dad, we've got a decent chance to convince mom.
My mom can't shovel snow. She can't mow the lawn. Dad can (for now), but doesn't have the stamina for anything large. He's mowed my lawn once or twice and been tired out by doing half of it. I bought them a used snowblower when theirs died because I knew he wouldn't be able to manage without one (if they end up not needing it, I'm taking it back).
They are daily life independent currently, even mostly dad. There is at least one CCRC in my area which I plan to look into. I like the idea, assuming that their cats would be allowed. And yes, mom would initially be very upset, but I think she would ultimately adjust. The argument of "you don't HAVE to talk to people if you don't want!" may be very helpful, plus the guaranteed less cooking. She hates cooking. Dad would likely do well with the social interaction. These things might help convince mom, and dad will follow mom's lead.
Yes, I know that I just contradicted myself with dad can convince mom, and dad follows mom's lead. Both are true. Its complicated. My sister is a master at manipulating that dynamic too.
Cassie - yeah, we will be doing all the part B signups on time. Dad was able to sign up and defer or whatever. We'll figure out what is appropriate for mom, at least initially, then both will have a complete re-evaluation when the move happens.