Whether retirement is in your near future or within the next 10 years, it’s normal for your daily needs and lifestyle to change. Perhaps the kids have moved out and your big house is feeling too big. Maybe you’re just looking to downsize so you can spend less time cleaning the interior or tidying up the yard. Of course, there are assisted living homes where all of this is taken care of for you, but until that time comes, these communities take a lot of the work off your plate that comes with homeownership and they can also provide fabulous amenities and a fun lifestyle.
If this sounds like you, you may find that moving to a 55+ community is the right choice for this chapter of your life! A 55+ community is an active adult living area in which at least one resident of each property is age 55 or over. Designed with this target market in mind, these communities offer unique activities and benefits residents can take advantage of. Additionally, unlike a retirement community, residents own their own homes; think of it as being a part of a condo association or an HOA.
Here are the top signs that a 55+ Community may be the right fit for you:
Sign #1: You’re Seeking a Low Maintenance Lifestyle
Outdoor household chores including mowing the lawn or shoveling can be a huge hassle, and you may find yourself growing tired of keeping up with them. One of the major benefits of moving to a 55+ community is that these tasks are heavily reduced, giving you more time to spend doing what you actually want to do! As mentioned above, moving to a 55+ community typically entails becoming part of a condo or homeowner’s association. These associations will often take care of time-consuming outdoor chores, such as shoveling or salting your driveway, mowing the lawn, and much more. These services come with a monthly fee on top of your mortgage. The cost and specific services a community offers are on a case-by-case basis, so be sure to have a full understanding of what is included in your community of interest.
Sign #2: You’re Looking to Downsize from your Current Home
The properties within a 55+ community are typically on the smaller side, much like an apartment or a townhouse. With less square footage comes less interior cleaning to do! Additionally, with less space for miscellaneous items, you’ll likely have to conduct a deep declutter prior to moving in, giving you fewer belongings to maintain. Utility bills are often less expensive due to having a smaller area to heat and cool, and you’ll have more expendable income to use for daily purchases, travel, and savings! With a 55+ community, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits that downsizing offers.
Sign #3: You Desire Community and Social Activities
Another major benefit of living in a 55+ community is having access to fun and engaging activities you can share with your fellow neighbors and community members. Many communities will host events like line dancing, happy hour, and holiday parties. Others offer an abundance of clubs and groups to join, such as book clubs, crafting groups, yoga classes, and more. If you do your research, you are sure to find a community that aligns with your interests and lifestyle, and you’ll be forming new friendships in no time. Actively participating in your community’s activities creates a sense of belonging, which can enhance your overall quality of life.
Sign #4: You Want Access to Special Amenities
In most 55+ communities, there are special, private amenities offered to the residents. These amenities can include:
- Fitness centers
- Swimming pools
- Tennis courts
- Golf courses
- Walking trails
- Dog parks
- Restaurants and bars
- Classes
- And more!
When weighing your options on what community to choose, keep these amenities in mind and make sure they align with your hobbies and interests!
Sign #5: You Want to Live in a Place where Health and Safety are Prioritized
Many 55+ communities are known for their commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles among their residents. Along with having fitness facilities on site, these communities often offer a wide range of workout classes and exercise opportunities tailored to the needs and preferences of their residents. In addition to promoting physical well-being, these communities prioritize security as well. With features like gated access and dedicated security personnel, residents can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a secure environment. Furthermore, many 55+ communities are strategically located near healthcare services, ensuring quick access to medical facilities and support services.