What is an active adult community?

Active Adult Communities are specifically designed for age qualified, active adults who want to embrace the stress free, turnkey, empty nester lifestyle. Focused on creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere, active adult communities provide state-of-the-art amenities, classes and activities that foster lasting social relationships with peers. You will find fitness, fun and friendship in resort style surroundings. You will not find medical assistance, transportation, or meals but these things can be sourced at an additional fee. Community members want the best of empty nester living, minus the charges for services they do not need.

What are the pros and cons of living in a 55+ community?

The many pros of living in a 55+ community include: Living spaces designed for aging in place with comfort and convenience. A built-in network of like-minded, active adult peers with which to create meaningful social connections. Peace of mind in a secure environment with other community members who support and watch out for each other. Resort worthy amenities that may include state-of-the-art full-service fitness centers, Olympic sized pools, professionally outfitted kitchens for classes and demonstrations, theaters, game rooms and well-manicured outdoor spaces. An unlimited list of opportunities for physical, intellectual, and social enrichment. The best of stress free, turnkey living.

What is the difference between assisted living, independent living and active senior apartments?

Independent Living: Ironically independent living is for seniors who may need some level of assistance. Services like meals, laundry, linen delivery, maid service, on-site nurse, and planned activities are available as needed or wanted. If a resident needs special care, like an aide to help with daily life, they have to hire from an outside source on their own. Assisted Living: Assisted living may be the right choice for those who need a higher level of support. Assisted living facilities have on-site professionals to help with daily challenges and medical care. Those services are generally included in the overall cost of the facility. Active Adult Living: An active adult community is the gold standard for totally independent active adults seeking to maximize their empty nester chapter. With no hidden charges for services community members do not need, it's a choice that makes sense in terms of both lifestyle and finances.

How do I find the right active adult community for me?

There are important issues to consider when looking for the right community: Where do you want to live? Do you want to stay in your present location or try a new geographical area? Does the community make sense for you financially? Will your pet be welcome? Does the community design and layout meet your expectations? Does the roster of classes, activities and social opportunities accommodate your interests and lifestyle? Now that you have taken a tour, does the community have the right vibe for you?

My loved one is not able to live on their own. What is the best way to start a conversation with them about moving?

Open the communication lines early. Be honest about your concerns. Be sensitive. Be proactive by doing your research first. Be supportive.

How to downsize for a senior living move?

Deal with the clutter a little bit at a time. Set a timer to make sure you don't overdo it. Create a yes, no and maybe pile to decide what is kept, donated or trashed. Get help from family, friends or call in the professionals.

55+ Apartments or Senior Living?

Q: What is Senior Living?

Senior Living is an umbrella term applied to the various different types of communities that cater to older adults.

Brad and Janet are in their late 55s. They’re ready to downsize and explore their housing options. Ideally, they want to rent a unit in a 55+ apartment that offers the amenities and activities they enjoy, but they’re finding the housing terminology a little confusing. Some apartments call themselves active-adult living apartments or 55-and-older apartments. Others refer to their housing as “senior living” facilities.

To make an informed decision, Brad and Janet need to understand the difference between senior living and 55+ apartments. Understanding what each term means will help them choose the apartment and lifestyle that fits their needs.

What Are 55+ Apartments?

55+ apartments are age-qualified communities where residents must be 55 or older. Apartments designed for the 55+ crowd are for active, independent adults who want to simplify their lives while retaining full independence.

Also known as adult active living apartments, 55+ apartments often include resort-level amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, game rooms, cafes, and spas. 55-and-older apartments typically handle all external site maintenance while offering social programs and special events for residents. Many have pet-friendly policies.

The key thing to remember about 55+ apartments is that they are a lifestyle upgrade for residents who can live fully independently. They are not care facilities.

What Is "Senior Living"

Senior living” is an umbrella term used to describe housing for people who need some degree of assisted living. Senior living facilities break down into three general categories:

Independent Living is similar to life in 55+ apartments but may include meals, housekeeping, and laundry services.
Assisted Living is for seniors who need help with dressing, meals, and other daily tasks.
Memory Care describes specialized facilities for seniors living with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Senior living provides services and support that residents of 55+ apartments do not need. Such facilities often have a higher monthly cost than active adult living apartments.

Key Differences between 55+ Apartments and Senior Living

How to Know Which Option is Right for You

Your current lifestyle, preferences, and needs should determine whether 55+ apartments or senior living is right for you, rather than concerns about what the future may bring. Active adult living may be the right fit if:

You're active and independent, but want fewer maintenance responsibilities
You want neighbors in a similar life stage
You value flexibility, privacy, and independence
You're downsizing from a larger home

Senior living facilities are a good choice if:

You'd benefit from included meals or daily check-ins
You want or need on-site support services

55+ apartments and senior living serve people at different life stages. Your move into adult active living may be permanent or may need reevaluation as your needs change.

55-and-older apartments are an excellent choice for seniors seeking community and convenience while retaining their independence. Visit an Overture community and discover what a 55+ lifestyle can be.