Over a year ago, I made a decision that surprised even myself: I purchased a condominium in a 55+ community. Yes, you read that right! Despite not being quite ready for retirement, I wanted to plant my roots in a vibrant and active community that not only allows for frequent visits in the present, but also serves as a home base for my future retirement. It wasn’t an overnight decision – it came after careful consideration, research, and even some self-reflection. Join me as I share this journey, the considerations I took, and the benefits that you too could reap from choosing to live in an age-restricted community.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my personal journey and experiences that led to the choice of purchasing a home in a 55+ community. I’ll take you through the ins and outs of these communities and why they’re increasingly becoming the top choice for those of us planning ahead for retirement. We’ll delve into the crucial factors you need to consider when choosing the right 55+ community for your lifestyle, the process of moving in, and tips to help you adjust to your new life in such a community.
Additionally, I’ll share some testimonials from people who’ve made the leap and are currently living in these communities, providing a realistic view of the pros and cons that come with this decision. My hope is that by the end of this post, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of what life in age restricted, 55 and over community looks like and feel more confident in making the decision for yourself. Whether you’re on the cusp of retirement, planning ahead, or exploring housing options for loved ones, this guide is designed to provide insightful and practical information to navigate your journey.
The Rise of 55+ Communities
What are 55+ Communities?
55+ communities, also known as active adult communities, retirement communities, or age-restricted communities, are housing developments designed for individuals aged 55 years and above. These communities often provide a variety of amenities, social activities, and services that cater to the needs and lifestyle preferences of older adults. The primary goal of these communities is to create a vibrant, engaging environment where residents can enjoy their golden years with minimal worries about maintenance, safety, and loneliness.
Why are 55+ Communities Becoming Popular?
The rise in popularity of 55+ communities is linked to several factors. Firstly, the aging baby boomer population, which is larger and more active than previous generations, is seeking lifestyle options that match their dynamic needs. Secondly, these communities offer a sense of belonging and camaraderie among peers with shared life experiences, which is a significant pull for seniors. Furthermore, these communities often provide an easy transition to a simpler, maintenance-free lifestyle, which appeals to older adults looking to downsize and focus more on hobbies, travel, and socializing.
Benefits of Living in 55+ Communities
Living in a 55+ community comes with a host of benefits. These include:
- Low-Maintenance Lifestyle: With exterior home maintenance, landscaping, and often some household chores taken care of by the community, residents have more free time to pursue interests and hobbies.
- Built-in Social Network: The community aspect promotes frequent interaction and fosters strong bonds among residents. There are often clubs, classes, outings, and events to facilitate social engagement.
- Amenities: Many 55+ communities are equipped with amenities like clubhouses, fitness centers, pools, golf courses, and more.
- Safety and Peace of Mind: These communities typically have secure entrances and provide emergency services, giving residents and their families added peace of mind.
- Aging in Place: Some communities offer a continuum of care services, allowing residents to transition seamlessly to higher levels of care as needed.
- Vibrant Lifestyle: With a focus on active living, these communities encourage a healthy, engaged lifestyle that many find fulfilling in their later years.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 55+ Community
Location
The old real estate adage “location, location, location” holds true when choosing a 55+ community. Consider the community’s proximity to family, friends, shopping centers, restaurants, and other places that you frequent. If you enjoy the beach, mountains, or certain climate conditions, these should also factor into your decision. You may also want to consider the cost of living and tax implications in the community’s location.
Amenities
Different 55+ communities offer various amenities. Some have luxurious clubhouses, golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers, and even on-site dining options. Others may provide gardening areas, walking trails, or arts and crafts studios. When considering a community, make sure it offers amenities that match your lifestyle and interests.
Housing Types
55+ communities offer a variety of housing options. These range from single-family homes, condominiums, townhouses, to apartments. Some even provide tiny homes or RV living options. It’s essential to consider what type of housing will best fit your lifestyle, needs for space, and comfort level with home maintenance.
Accessibility and Healthcare Facilities
Check out how the community has been designed for accessibility. Are there elevators, handrails, and non-slip floors? Are doors and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs or walkers if needed in the future? Proximity to healthcare facilities is also crucial. Evaluate the community’s closeness to hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and whether they have in-house healthcare services.
Social Activities and Community Engagement
One of the significant benefits of living in a 55+ community is the built-in social network. Check out the community’s events calendar – are there clubs, classes, or groups that match your interests? Regular social activities, group outings, and community engagement opportunities are all vital parts of staying active and connected. Choose a community that aligns with your social preferences and offers plenty of opportunities for engagement.
Rules and Regulations
The rules vary from community to community, and include things like what type or if you can have a pet, what type of vehicles you can have, (mine doesn’t allow large trucks, because we have small parking lots and if they stick out, it’s a safety issue.) if you can rent your unit short term or long-term, how many days you can have a guest before they’re considered a resident and more. You want to make sure you choose a community where you can easily follow the rules.
The Process of Moving into a 55+ Community 
Evaluating Personal Needs and Preferences
The first step towards moving into a 55+ community is evaluating your personal needs and preferences. Do you prefer quiet solitude or a buzzing social life? Are you interested in pursuing certain hobbies? Do you have any specific health or dietary requirements? Are you planning on hosting family and friends regularly? Answers to these questions will help narrow down your options and ensure the community you choose aligns with your lifestyle.
Budget Considerations
It’s essential to consider your financial situation when planning a move to a 55+ community. Consider the cost of buying or renting a home in the community, monthly homeowners association fees, and what these fees include. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs for amenities, services, utilities, and potential future healthcare needs.
Researching and Touring Potential Communities
Once you’ve narrowed down your preferences and determined your budget, start researching potential communities. Online resources, word of mouth, and real estate agents can all provide valuable information. Once you’ve created a shortlist, schedule visits to tour these communities. Pay attention to the general condition of the facilities, the attitude of the staff and residents, and whether the community feels like a good fit for you.
Legal and Financial Aspects to Consider
Before making a commitment, ensure that you understand all legal and financial implications. This might involve consulting with a real estate attorney or financial advisor. Understand the terms of the contract, any regulations set by the community, what happens if your health situation changes, and the process and potential costs if you decide to move out in the future. It’s essential to have all this information upfront to make an informed decision.
Transitioning into 55+ Community Living
Emotional and Psychological Considerations
Moving into a 55+ community is a significant life change and, like all transitions, it comes with its share of emotional and psychological considerations. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement, apprehension, and perhaps even a bit of sadness as you leave a familiar environment for a new one. Be patient with yourself and remember that it takes time to adjust. Don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or a counselor if you find the transition challenging.
Tips for Settling In and Making New Friends
Starting life in a new community can be a fresh, exciting journey. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors and attend the welcome events that many communities organize for newcomers. Volunteering for community activities or joining clubs can also be a great way to meet people and establish friendships. Don’t forget to personalize your new home to make it feel comfortable and inviting.
Participating in Community Activities
Active engagement in community activities can enhance your transition experience and help you make the most of what the community has to offer. Whether it’s fitness classes, book clubs, gardening groups, or off-site excursions, these activities are designed to foster a sense of community and keep residents active and engaged. Even if you’re usually a reserved person, consider trying out a few activities — you might discover new interests and make some wonderful new friends in the process.
Personal Experiences of People Who Live in 55+ Communities
While it’s important to gather all the information and do extensive research, nothing quite compares to hearing from those who have actually made the leap and are living in 55+ communities. In this section, we’ll share a series of testimonials from individuals who have chosen this lifestyle and are experiencing it firsthand.
Given that the community we chose is in Florida, it was expected to have a substantial number of seasonal residents or ‘snowbirds.’ If your community shares this trait, you’ll notice a distinct busy season and a more tranquil slow season. Several residents found themselves caught off-guard by the slow season, describing it as isolating and somewhat uneventful. As one resident lamented, “I yearn for our community to host year-round activities. Outside of the holiday weekend barbecues at the clubhouse, most activities wind down when the snowbirds depart.”
However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Some residents relish these quiet periods, enjoying the tranquility and slower pace of life. Our community has a diverse mix of residents, including owner-occupiers and renters, some of whom stay year-round while others are seasonal. An elder resident expressed her discomfort with the frequent arrivals and departures. She stated, “I would appreciate more stability in residency. The constant change with short-term rentals can be unsettling.” 
The sense of community within a 55 and over community truly shines for widowed and single residents. Barb, a widow, shared, “Whenever loneliness creeps in, I know that a leisurely stroll or a visit to the pool will inevitably lead to conversations with fellow residents.” Millie, a 73-year-old widow and a community veteran of 18 years, hardly misses her daily mini-triathlon. She noted, “There’s safety here when I’m out riding my bike and walking early in the morning before it gets hot. My pool hours, in particular, are my favorite time to socialize.”
The individual stories shared by residents present a vibrant, multi-faceted glimpse into the day-to-day rhythm of a 55+ community. They underscore the significance of understanding the unique dynamics of these communities, including the cyclic influx of seasonal residents and the balance between homeowners and renters, painting a vivid picture of community life that ebbs and flows with the seasons.
From the tranquil solace of quieter times to the vibrant energy of communal holiday celebrations, the pace of life in these communities undulates with its own unique beat. Residents experience this rhythm differently: some relish the peace of the slower periods, while others crave a continuous cycle of activities to enrich their social lives.
The reflections of those who navigate life in the community without a partner, particularly widows or single individuals, shed light on the deeply valuable aspects of 55+ community living. The ease of social connection and an inherent sense of safety, particularly during solitary pursuits like walking or biking, are invaluable facets of community life that substantially enhance the golden years’ quality of life.
Yet, like any community, there can be challenges. The transitory nature of residents, particularly with short-term rentals, can occasionally disrupt the warm, familiar atmosphere of the community, introducing a sense of unpredictability.
These personal accounts provide priceless insight that prospective residents will find useful in making informed decisions about joining a 55+ community. Understanding the seasonal dynamics, assessing the proportion of rental and owner-occupied units, or appreciating the potential for social interactions, these firsthand experiences shine a revealing light on the realities of life in a 55+ community.
I hope you found this comprehensive guide to age-restricted living to be of value to you.
We have thoroughly enjoyed our condo and meeting so many new friends. If you’re nearing retirement or are considering your future housing options, I encourage you to contemplate the prospect of a 55+ community. With their host of amenities, social activities, and a built-in support network, these communities offer a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle for your golden years. I’d suggest a short-term rental before taking the plunge, or at least stopping by the pool to chat with the residents out of your realtor’s earshot!
- Old Lady in Training
