To the Editor:

Re ''For Elderly, New Housing Comes With Help'' (news article, April 27): As a geriatric care manager who specializes in assessing the needs of the elderly and helping to plan care, I am aware of the previous lack of assisted-living housing in New York City.

The concept of assisted living fosters independence in a homelike setting. Although the monthly fees may be prohibitive for many New Yorkers, assisted living does provide an alternative to living alone or to placement in a nursing home.

Most elderly residents are thriving in these communal settings, where their life styles are not restricted and socialization and activities are promoted. Aging safely in a positive environment can enhance the elderly's quality of life.

TERI S. KOFF

New York, April 27, 1998