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Active adult communities, also known as 55+ communities, are planned residential developments designed specifically for people aged 55 and older.
Key Features:
- Age-Restricted Living: Typically require residents to be at least 55 years old.
- Focus on Recreation and Socialization: Offer a wide range of amenities and activities, such as fitness centers, swimming pools, golf courses, clubs, and social events.
- Low-Maintenance Living: Often include features like lawn care, snow removal, and exterior maintenance, freeing residents from household chores.
- Sense of Community: Foster a strong sense of community among residents through shared interests and activities.
- Housing Options: Can include single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
Who Benefits from Active Adult Communities?
- Seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle.
- Individuals seeking an active and social environment.
- Those who enjoy recreational amenities and opportunities for socializing.
- People who want to downsize and simplify their living arrangements.
The Misconception: Active Adult Communities are Just “Retirement Homes” for Boring Old People.
The Interesting Angle: Active Adult Communities are Like “Resorts for Grown-Ups” – They’re about Embracing an Active and Engaging Lifestyle, Pursuing New Hobbies, and Building a Vibrant Social Life in a Supportive Environment!
- The Common Misunderstanding:
- People often picture active adult communities as places where seniors simply sit around and watch TV.
- The Real Story: Resorts for Grown-Ups
- Think of active adult communities as “resorts for grown-ups.” They offer:
- A vibrant social scene: Clubs, events, and activities for every interest.
- Opportunities to stay active: Fitness centers, pools, walking trails, and organized sports.
- A sense of community: Strong social bonds and a supportive environment.
- Freedom from household chores: Allowing residents to focus on enjoying their leisure time.
- A chance to pursue new passions: Learning new skills, exploring hobbies, and traveling.
- It’s about enjoying life to the fullest, not just slowing down.
- It’s about creating a fulfilling and active lifestyle in a supportive environment.
- Think of active adult communities as “resorts for grown-ups.” They offer:
- Why This is Powerful:
- It changes the idea from “retirement homes” to “vibrant communities.”
- It shows that active adult communities are about more than just housing.
- It helps people see the potential for an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle in retirement.
- The “Get it Wrong” Factor:
- People think they’re only for the very old, but they’re for active and independent seniors.
- They think they’re boring, but they offer a wide range of activities and amenities.
- They think it is only about retirement, and not about a new lifestyle.
Resources for Active Adult Communities:
- SeniorLiving.org: https://www.seniorliving.org/
- 55places.com: https://www.55places.com/
- ActiveAdultLiving.com: https://www.activeadultliving.com/
- Local Real Estate Agents: Real estate agents specializing in 55+ communities can provide valuable insights and guidance.