Strategies for Selecting a Seniors Community and New Place of Residence

Oct 8
07:48

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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As more baby boomers approach retirement, new homes designed for aging adults are popping up everywhere. There are numerous housing developments and adult communities springing up around the country designed for residents over the age of 55.

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As an aging population races toward retirement,Strategies for Selecting a Seniors Community and New Place of Residence Articles new homes designed for those 55 and over are cropping up all over the United States. Resort-style, age-restricted communities are becoming increasingly popular.

New facilities and planned communities allow retired residents untethered access to incredible recreation facilities, restaurants, social clubs and health-related services. In general, these communities are typically active adult communities or independent living facilities with the privacy and independence of individual units or homes.

Some are blended and offer the support and services of on-site health professionals or home care workers without forcing residents to give up their independence.

If you're thinking about moving for your retirement, new homes in age-restricted resort communities can be a fantastic option. No more lawn work, lots of activities, and beautiful settings await you. But, how do you choose the right community for you? Keep reading for a breakdown of the criteria you should look for in a retirement community.

How Close is it to the Kids?

If being close to your family is important, then you'll want to look for a home or retirement community that's close to your kids. Another consideration is space. Many units are sold as one-bedroom condominiums or two-bedroom homes. If you're planning to have many grandchildren visit, you may want to look for a community that offers larger units.

How do the Philosophies and Principles Compare to Yours?

Different retirement communities have varying focuses and philosophies. Try to find one that matches your own. If you're an avid yoga lover, for example, and committed to sustainability, then you may not enjoy yourself in a community targeted toward avid golfers and hunters.

For example, there's a retirement community in Arizona that's committed to academic research, another in Florida that's focused on extremely active living and yet another in California with a passion toward being an environmentally sustainable community. So, before you buy, make sure you understand the driving principles.

Pedestrian and Transit Friendly

For example, can you walk to a nearby store, or will you always be dependent on a car to pick up a carton of milk? While you may be active and driving now, that may not be the case in 10 or 15 years. Ideally, you want to seek a community that's pedestrian friendly.

Would I Get Along with the Other Residents?

Before you buy into a new retirement or adult community, you should always attend an information session to get a feel for other potential residents. Alternatively, if you're moving into an existing community, ask to spend the day at their recreation hall or community lounge.

Get a feel for the members of the community, their attitude and their general outlook. Could you see yourself spending time with these people throughout your retirement? New homes or not, you want to share those years with people you actually like.