As your retirement approaches and your family moves out of your home, you may find yourself considering selling your property and moving. However, it can be difficult for active adults to know what lifestyle will serve them best as they near or have entered retirement. While a 55+ community may be appealing, you might not know what to expect when moving into one.
Is a 55+ community the right choice for you and your spouse, and is it equipped to handle your lifestyle? The first step in feeling more confident in your decision is to understand exactly what you can expect from this kind of community. By learning more about these communities, you can make a more informed decision about whether they align with your needs, preferences, and long-term retirement goals.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a 55+ community is, what the most common amenities and benefits are, and whether it is the right choice for you or your loved ones.
Understanding the Basics of a 55+ Community
A 55+ community is a neighborhood designed for older adults. These communities are intended to support a lifestyle that appeals to active adults who may be approaching retirement or looking to downsize from a larger family home, or seniors who have already retired. Unlike traditional neighborhoods that serve all ages, 55+ communities are developed with the needs and preferences of older adults in mind.
They can include a variety of housing options, such as single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and apartment-style residences. While many people assume these communities are the same as assisted living facilities or nursing homes, they are actually independent living environments where residents maintain their own households.
Generally, individuals who live in these communities still follow an incredibly active lifestyle, even in their senior years, and are looking for individuals who are of a similar mindset. Understanding this distinction is key to recognizing what these communities really offer and why it has become a popular housing choice for many older adults.
Age Requirements and Who Can Live There
If you’ve been considering moving into a 55+ community, you may worry about whether this community will consist of residents who are similar in age to you. Thankfully, these communities are generally governed by the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), and they must meet the strict criteria to maintain their age-restricted status.
These communities follow the 80/20 rule, and do not need to be exclusively occupied by adults who are over 55. For a community to meet the 55+ standard, at least 80% of the households must have one or more residents who are 55 or older. The remaining 20% can house younger adults, but this allowance is generally dictated by community bylaws.
Common Amenities and Lifestyle Benefits for Active Adults
55+ communities are popular among older adults who want to maintain an active lifestyle, even later in life. To ensure they are meeting the wants and needs of the adults who are moving into the community, they are generally built with a variety of amenities that can promote this activity. Some of the most common amenities in our 55+ communities include:
- Fitness Center
- Swimming Pools
- Walking Paths
- Theaters
- Billiards
- Ping Pong
- Barbecue and Picnic Areas
- Outdoor Sports Courts
Before moving into a 55+ community, it is important to consider what amenities you are most interested in. If you love swimming, look for a community with a pool. If you value group fitness classes, ensure your community offers water aerobics, tai chi, or yoga. By prioritizing your hobbies, you can ensure your new community is a good fit for your everyday life.
Rules, Regulations, and What Residents Should Expect
Like any neighborhood, 55+ communities operate under a set of rules and regulations designed to maintain a consistent living environment. These guidelines are often established by a homeowners association or property management team and may cover topics such as property maintenance, parking, noise levels, pet ownership, and the use of shared spaces.
While some prospective residents worry that these rules may be restrictive, they are generally intended to preserve the community’s appearance, safety, and overall quality of life. It is also important to understand that the policies will vary significantly from one community to another, and that while one community might not be good for you, another can be.
Before making a move, potential residents should carefully review governing documents, fee structures, and community expectations. Taking the time to understand these requirements can help prevent surprises and ensure the community aligns with an individual’s lifestyle, preferences, and long-term housing goals.
Is a 55+ Community the Right Choice for Your Retirement Plans?
A 55+ community can be an excellent option for adults seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, social opportunities, and a neighborhood designed for their stage of life. However, the right choice depends on your personal preferences, budget, and long-term goals. Some people appreciate the sense of community and age-focused environment.
Others may prefer a more diverse neighborhood with residents of all ages. Before making a decision, consider factors such as location, housing costs, amenities, and community rules. Taking the time to evaluate your wants and needs can help you determine whether a 55+ community is the best fit.
Find Your Perfect Home in Our Leisure Villas Communities
If you’ve decided that a 55+ community is right for you, it may be time to schedule a tour of one of our Leisure Villas communities. With communities across the Wasatch Front, we’re confident that we have one that is the perfect fit for you. Our communities are all home to clubhouses, swimming pools, exercise facilities, movie theaters, and much more, where you can enjoy your favorite hobbies while building a community of like-minded people.
When you are ready to schedule your tour of our Leisure Villas community, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.