Understanding What Active Adult Communities Are All About

If you are a senior who lives an independent and energetic life, you may wish to contemplate your living arrangements. Active adult communities are one option for those who are 55 years of age and older. They are real estate developments that offer to their residents a way of living that is independent in nature and relatively free of maintenance. Some of these places are age restricted and some are age targeted. The former means that 80 percent of homeowners must be aged 55 years and over, while in the latter case, no percentage is noted. Age targeted locations market to everyone who is 55 years of age and up.

Many individuals, who live in this style of housing still hold down jobs, be they full or part time, which is why they are termed "active adult communities" as opposed to "adult retirement communities." The residents in these places have no restrictions or oppositions to the visits (or frequent visits) from their children or grandchildren. What connects those in the 55+ crowd is the assumption that individuals at this stage of their life share some of the same interest, pursuits, pastimes, and leisure activities.

At the most basic and general level, the lively aspect of these environments means that no one living there requires any help performing daily activities of life, such as preparing meals, taking medication, personal care, and housekeeping duties. In active adult communities, there are often numerous activities available on-site and easy access to shopping, medical facilities, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues. According to a 2005 American Housing Survey, 85 percent of those who live in housing for the 55+ crowd are located in or near a metropolitan area.


What you need to be mindful of though is that active adult communities are not just a form of real estate for a select group of people. Those who make the decision to become a part of this housing situation are also choosing the community and the type of lifestyle that goes with it. The modern housing arrangements for these locations offer any number of activities that can fit into anyone's schedule. While knitting, card games and shuffleboard are available for those interested in engaging in them; there are also plenty of other enjoyable activities for residents to get involved with.

Many of these housing options promote a feeling of being on vacation or visiting a resort for those who reside there. They do this by offering amenities and activities that appeal to many people. Still, others do their part to place the emphasis on a fun-filled social life or cultural life.

The "active" aspect of the equation in these environments embraces both the body and the mind. Those who live in this kind of situation can participate in an array of health oriented and social pursuits that make them happy. They can bike, golf, swim, walk and jog. They can kick up their heels by dancing or they can practice yoga, pilates, or aerobics. They can also enjoy a game of darts or enjoy lawn bowling. Arts and crafts can also be instituted, as can movie nights and holiday gatherings.