What Is an Active Adult Retirement Community and Is It Right for Me?

As you explore potential housing options, you may come across active adult retirement communities – a type of retirement living that probably differs a little from what you’d expect. Sure, you’ve been looking for a home that’s less work and a lifestyle that offers more freedom.

But, what you get is even more flexible and fun than you could have imagined!

Active adult communities are popular among Boomers who are young at heart! Here’s why.

What Is an Active Adult Retirement Community?

An active adult community is residential living for older adults who can live independently. Communities encourage active, healthy lifestyles by providing a variety of amenities, activities, entertainment, and social opportunities.

Who Lives in an Active Adult Retirement Community?

There are two types of communities: age-targeted and age-restricted. In an age-targeted community, adults over 55 are marketed to. Amenities and activities are geared toward Boomers and older Gen X. But, younger generations are allowed to live there too.

In an age-restricted community, at least 80 percent of the homes must have an occupant who is 55 or older.

What’s So Great About It?

What’s there to love about an active adult retirement community? Well, there’s a lot!

Friendship

New and lasting friendships make retirement life extra special. Moving into a 55+ community means a neighborhood full of like-minded peers!

Related: Advantages Of Retiring In An Active Adult Community

Home Designs

Retirement communities feature more comfort, accessibility, and safer independent living. Ranch-style homes are common as well as accessible features like first-floor laundry.

Safety

Many active adult communities have gated entry. Homes will also usually have security systems. And, as if that’s not enough – don’t forget that friendly neighbors equal extra eyes looking out for you!

Amenities

Communities are full of resort-style amenities to enhance retirement! Residents enjoy countless on-site activities and can choose to participate in clubs, games, social opportunities, and more! Communities usually feature a clubhouse for gathering, swimming pools, and sports. On-site entertainment is also common as well as day trips and travel opportunities. Active adult communities allow you to spend retirement having as little or as much fun as you want!

Maintenance-Free Living

No more mowing the lawn or shoveling snow! Moving to a 55+ community means maintenance-free living, so you have time to enjoy living! Many also offer handyman services and housekeeping too.

Is an Active Adult Retirement Community Right For Me?

Maybe! If you’re looking for a maintenance-free, active, and enriching retirement, then it might just be for you! But, if you’re still not sure, then read 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Moving to a 55+ Active Adult Community!

Need Something Else?

Find a retirement community near me!

Senior Resource provides aging adults, retirees, and caregivers with applicable and educational content relevant to the over-55 community. We address topics like senior housing, nursing care, aging in place, and more!

Want to read more great senior living articles? Then check out our Retirement Lifestyle Blog!

Need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!