Are active adult retirement communities right for you?
We examine the pros and cons to help you decide. If you have decided active adult community living is the way for you, see our helpful page "Find the Best Active Adult Retirement Community"
Why do retirees choose active adult communities?
- Empty nesters want to vastly downsize their living space.
- Retirement communities often provide more affordable housing.
- A variety of housing configurations provide single-floor living.
- Retirement community homes have wide, senior-friendly hallways and safety features.
- Most communities are maintenance-free and the community is professionally maintained.
- Social networking and integration are facilitated.
- Cultural and entertainment events are tailored to seniors.
- It is easy to find others sharing hobbies and special interests.
- They value the peace and quiet in an age-restricted residential environment.
- They value the security of a gated/patrolled community.
- There are retirement communities of all types that offer ownership options, and amenity themes that appeal to a wide range of interests and needs.
- There are rules that govern pet ownership, avoiding neighbor-against-neighbor conflict.
Why do some retirees choose not to live in retirement communities?
- Tightwad community neighbors who are typically penny wise and pound foolish.
- Pet restrictions that prohibit their 75-pound dog.
- Age restrictions that sometimes hamper the ability to have younger house guests.
- Retirement communities are full of old people.
- Planned activities and lifestyle that minimize individuality.
- Nosy neighbors with a built-in gossip network.
- High HOA fees. They would like to do their own maintenance and yard work.
- Low HOA fees. Overly frugal association members slash services to reduce HOA fees.
- The land is owned by a developer, builder, or the association, but not typically by the homeowner.
- Politics and bickering among residents, management, and the association.
- Poor financial management that could affect residents adversely.
In the end, your decision about whether to retire in an active adult retirement community depends on your interests, needs, tolerances, health, and financial means.
