There are many benefits of staying in one’s own home, but with age, this setup might no longer be practical. Over time, older adults’ daily needs and the ability to carry out regular tasks change, so they may need assistance with home maintenance, yard work, and other chores. Constantly seeking external support for such things can be expensive. This is why older adults over 55 may consider moving into a senior living community.
Benefits of senior living communities
Senior living communities are residential arrangements designed for older adults. So, seniors are likely to find these setups suitable for their lifestyle and needs owing to the several benefits they get as residents.
1. Community living
The social aspect of senior living communities is a major pull for many older adults. These communities make it easier for seniors to stay socially connected through close-knit interactions and group activities. This lowers the risk of seniors feeling lonely and homesick, which are common concerns while moving to a new place. In such communities, seniors also get to enjoy interacting with like-minded neighbors.
2. Lower home prices
The prices of a residential unit in a senior living community can vary based on the amenities it offers. That said, typically, a studio apartment or even a three-bedroom home purchased in a senior living community for over 55 adults is likely to be more affordable than regular homes of comparable sizes. The reason for the high affordability is the smaller buyer pool. However, seniors must check the homeowners association (HOA) fees before investing in a senior living community home. These fees cover the costs of HOA-organized activities like social gatherings and lawn care.
3. Safe environment
Most senior living communities for those over 55 are gated and secure. They usually hire security guards to patrol the entrances and monitor the entry and exit of every visitor and resident. Only approved guests can enter the gated communities. Such strict measures can help seniors feel safe in these communities. Communities may also invest in advanced security technology to lower the risk of unauthorized entry and theft.
4. Easy upkeep
HOAs are typically responsible for employing trained personnel to ensure regular maintenance of a community. Road resurfacing, lawn maintenance, and pool cleaning are part of the upkeep. Additionally, shared amenities, landscaping, and common areas are managed by a community’s HOA. Most communities seek reasonable maintenance fees from residents in exchange for these services. Some may allow residents to hire personnel to help them with cleanup and home upkeep. So, residents do not have to undertake these tasks on their own.
Exterior maintenance is almost exclusively the responsibility of the HOA. The only spaces seniors will need to maintain are the interior of their homes and backyards. However, many assisted living facilities even cover interior cleanup in exchange for a nominal fee.
5. Wide availability
Today, it is easy to find a senior living community for those over 55 in the country. Seniors can also relocate to a different city that offers suitable living arrangements. They can move to a senior community that is closer to their family members.
Key amenities in 55+ senior communities
While certain premium senior living communities may offer luxurious amenities, others still provide practical, supportive services to help residents lead comfortable lives.
1. Concierge services
Residents may have to coordinate meal and grocery deliveries, housekeeping service providers, and transportation services. To help them out, most senior living communities arrange for specialized concierge service providers who can carry out these tasks.
2. Common areas for socialization
Fostering socialization is often the main objective of senior living communities. Common areas help HOAs achieve that objective. These spaces could be fitness centers, dog parks, outdoor kitchens, pools, clubhouses, and barbecuing areas, where residents come together to spend some time.
Senior living communities also offer access to care providers to ensure the well-being of their residents.
Types of 55+ senior living communities
Based on the amenities, there are multiple kinds of senior living facilities one can find.
1. Luxury communities
These communities typically have larger residential units and premium facilities. A standout feature of these living arrangements is the top-notch concierge services these communities offer.
2. Active senior communities
Many seniors enjoy an active lifestyle. Certain senior communities recognize this need and offer residents a host of recreational activities like biking, skiing, and golfing.
3. Singles-only communities
These communities only offer occupancy to older adults who are currently unmarried. Singles-only communities also offer residents events and opportunities to meet and connect with other single adults.
4. Golf and resort communities
These communities cater to a niche group, offering them resort-like amenities, especially a golf course.
Cost
Senior living communities generally follow a rental structure, offering units to seniors at a monthly fee. The monthly living expenses here are determined based on factors like amenities and services offered in the community and daily lifestyle. On average, the expenses tend to be between $1,500 and $4,000 per month. Additionally, senior living communities with HOAs charge additional fees for services and niceties. The average rental cost of assisted living facilities tends to be $3,500–$10,500 per month.