So you’re in the market for a retirement home where you can spend your golden years comfortably and joyfully. We’ve drawn up this guide to help active adults like you find their forever home in a 50 and older community. Ready to move into a community where comfort, convenience, and community are at its heart? Then, let’s dive in.
What Are 50 and Older Communities?
Simply put, these are neighborhoods or housing developments where the focus is on adults aged 50+. They have plenty of perks, such as low maintenance, so there’s no need to do any yard work, home repairs, snow removal, or other demanding chores.
You can also tap into an active social environment and meet like-minded neighbors, as 50 and older communities are designed for the active adult. There’s a wide range of amenities, too, all made to support leisure and wellness pursuits, whether a yoga class, social meetups, or walking with friends.
Housing Options for Active Adults
Housing options are aplenty — you can choose to live independently in an independent living community, receive additional support in an assisted living community, or get comprehensive care in a skilled nursing care community.
Independent Living Communities
If you rarely have the need for assistance in daily tasks and want to lead a socially or physically active lifestyle, this is for you. Independent living communities provide a supportive environment and lots of activities that can keep you busy — think fitness centers, social clubs, and recreational activities.
What’s more, you can meet people around your age with the same interests, and maintenance and home repairs are usually included in the package. So you can focus on what truly makes you feel fulfilled.
Age-Restricted Communities
Just like independent living communities, age-restricted communities have amenities for recreational activities, but their focus is more on providing a peaceful living environment for older adults. They also have age requirements, such as being 55+. This is for you if you want to live your retirement years in a serene setting with like-minded neighbors and minimal disruptions.
Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living communities are for those who need some assistance but still want to retain as much independence as possible. Support services like personal care, medication management, and mobility assistance will be at your disposal, and your home comes with safety features, from grab bars to emergency call systems. Just like in independent living communities, you can take advantage of organized social and physical activities that can make day-to-day life more engaging.
55+ Co-Housing Communities
55+ co-housing communities take community living up a notch — they encourage collaboration and sharing responsibilities by having residents actively participate in the community’s daily operations. Residents share common areas like kitchens, recreational areas, and gardens, meaning everyone can contribute to maintaining and enjoying these spaces. If you value social connections and being part of a close-knit group while still maintaining your independence, this could be the living arrangement you’re looking for.
Skilled Nursing Care Communities
Skilled nursing care communities, or nursing homes, are perfect for those who need 24/7 medical care and support. Whether it’s for chronic health conditions or significant disabilities, these communities are equipped to handle more complex medical needs. You’ll find services like round-the-clock nursing, rehab therapies, and specialized treatments, and accommodations that range from private to shared rooms.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) are like the best of both worlds — they offer a variety of living options in one place, including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care.
As your needs change over time, you can transition between different levels of care without ever having to leave the community you’ve grown comfortable in. You’ll always have the right level of care in this setup, all while staying in a familiar environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant community with lots of social activities, a supportive environment with a range of care levels, or the freedom to stay in your current home with added support, there’s always a solution for your preferences.
So explore your options while keeping your lifestyle and needs in mind. This will make it easier to narrow down your options and create a living space that enriches your golden years.