Senior communities offering lifestyles
Living life to the fullest does not need to stop when adults near or reach retirement age . Age-restricted housing communities once bore the stereotype of having limited recreational options and dated surroundings . But modern senior homes and facilities are all about catering to active lifestyles — with some communities offering resort-like amenities and pristine properties . Furthermore , certain communities provide niche offerings for people who are looking for something even a little more different .
Eligibility to live in these communities varies , but generally speaking one resident in the home must be age 55 or older . According to research by TRI Pointe Homes , of the 75 million people who comprise the Baby Boomer generation who are eligible for age-qualified communities , more than 32 million would consider living in such a community . The website 55places . com , which specializes in promoting age-restricted communities , indicates Florida has the most age-restricted communities in the country , followed by New Jersey . Arbutus Ridge Seaside Community for Active Adults was the first comprehensive retirement community built in Canada .
Choosing an age-restricted community requires consideration of a host of factors , including the amenities residents most desire and the cost of a facility .
Age-restricted retirement communities are evolving and many specialize in catering to active lifestyles .
Metro Creative Connection
The following factors can help people decide which community is most suitable for them .
• Style of home : Homes built in retirement communities are designed to be comfortable and convenient for aging residents . Many are single-floor units . Certain communities may be comprised of apartments , condos or townhouses , while others may be single , detached residences .
• Amenities : When comparing age-restricted communities , consider the amenities available . Do they include on-site dining , transportation , travel assistance , pools , fitness centers , walking trails , or outdoor sports facilities ? Some communities have “ aging in place ” amenities , which means residents can move from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing care as their needs change . Make a list of interests and then match them to a community that can fit your needs .
• Costs : Costs vary considerably . Investopedia advises seniors to consider the community ’ s location and what is being offered , as these factors will affect costs . In addition to rent or mortgages , most communities also have monthly maintenance or homeowners association fees that need to be compared and considered . Read contracts carefully to see which other costs are included .
• Specialized features : Unique men and women call for unique communities . If standard age-restricted communities do not fit the bill , 55places . com says there are specialized offerings for people who spend retirement in an RV ; desire homes that align with their heritage ; communities just for postal workers ; or communities tied to a local college to continue lifelong learning .
10 • TIMELESS MERIDIAN