For the next 20 years, experts predict we will see record numbers of baby boomers moving into
active adult communities.
These are not nursing homes, assisted living or government subsidized high-rise buildings. These communities are like Disneyland for grown-ups, an around-the-clock amusement park offering a cornucopia of fun-filled activities for the 55-plus age group.
It's almost like 60 is the new 40. Few baby boomers plan to grow old gracefully; they're going to fight the aging process every step of the way and enjoy life to its fullest. As a result,
active adult communities are springing up all over the country, and they cater to the desire to remain young and vibrant. OK, maybe more vibrant than young, but you get my drift.
Many homes in active adult communities are designed for entertainment; they feature guest rooms suitable for weekend visits from grandchildren and offer work space for those seniors who plan to start a new career or hobby. Of course, the associations offer tennis courts, spas and adjacent golf courses, too. That goes without saying...
Visit any active adult retirement community for senior living, and you're more likely to see residents zooming by on motorized golf carts than chugging along in a push wheelchair. In fact, if you don't swiftly move out of their path, these happy-go-lucky golfers just might run over you. This is not your grandfather's retirement community.
Retirement communities are age-restricted and often located near metropolitan areas or nearby suburbs. The minimum age is typically 55, with one member of the household qualifying. Some communities restrict ownership to those age 62 and older, and all occupants must be at least 62. Driving by, though, you might think it's just another subdivision.
Many are gated and private. Homes are closer together and lot sizes smaller. Most of the homes are based on particular models, so they tend to resemble each other. Almost all offer a laundry list of activities and amenities.
Senior Living in Style: Amenities
Home owners in active adult retirement communities pay into a homeowner's association, which cares for the grounds and handles maintenance. Part of the homeowner association fees pays for such amenities as:
- Club House
- 18-Hole Golf Courses
- Libraries
- Fitness Centers
- Swimming Pools and Spas
- Arts & Crafts Centers
- Billiards and Card Rooms
- Tennis Courts
- Basketball Courts
- Continuing Education Classrooms
- Hiking & Biking Trails
- High-Tech Media Centers
- Banquet and Ballrooms
The list is endless. Retirement is a time to play and, for many, a time to enjoy meaningful work. Seniors over 55 know how to have fun and enjoy the social aspect of being surrounded by friends who like to do the same things that they do.Benefits to Seniors Living
Why move out of a perfectly comfortable home that has served you well for a decade or more and into a retirement community filled with strangers? There are plenty of benefits that lure seniors into these 55-plus subdivisions.
- Single-story living.
One level means those facing troubled knees or aching bones aren't forced to climb stairs. - Birds of a feather.
Your neighbors are unlikely to be screaming teenagers on skateboards; they are people just like you. - Little or no yard maintenance.
The homeowner association mows lawns, waters gardens, trims trees, sweeps walks and, in areas where it's needed, provides snow and ice removal. - Resort living.
Fun-filled activities are located within walking distance or an easy commute. All fees are included. - Mix work with play.
Many of today's seniors are not ready to live a life of 100% leisure and want to continue working or perhaps start a new career. Homes in retirement communities generally include an office, den or separate workspace.
Buying a Home in an Active Adult Community
by Elizabeth Weintraub:
Arizona is a top destination location for retirement communities - simply because the weather is amazing and the retirement communities of today often have amenities which include golf courses, massive club houses, events for all lifestyles, tennis and more.
