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 Senior Living?

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

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.

Apartment Features That Simplify Everyday Living After 55

If you’re ready to downsize and move into active-living apartments, you’ve probably got a list of features you want in your new home. Often, that list includes resort-level amenities such as heated swimming pools, fitness centers, on-site dog parks, and community areas. You’ve probably also given thought to which area of the country you want to move to, local health centers, shopping, and recreational opportunities.

All these are important when considering 55+ communities, but don’t forget apartment design. The building’s layout, accessibility, and floor plans will play a significant role in your daily life, so take the time to consider how an apartment will make your life easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Open, Intuitive Layouts

One of the first things people notice when they enter Overture 55+ apartments is how open our floor plans are. We designed our one- and two-bedroom apartments to reduce clutter, maximize space, and make them easy to navigate. Falls are a potential risk for people over the age of 55, so we ensured our floor plans would have few obstacles and would encourage an intuitive flow between the kitchen, living, and dining areas.

Open floor plans make entertaining and daily movement easier, especially if you’re used to the space that comes with owning a larger home. Your new apartment should be airy, open, and not feel crowded once you move in.

Storage That Works for You

Ample storage space is one of the most overlooked senior living amenities. You've downsized as much as you want, gifting some precious items to family and friends, and selling, tossing, or donating the rest. Even so, you’ve probably still got some sentimental items you want to keep, and you need somewhere to store them, along with your wardrobe, dishes, food, and other items.

Look for an apartment with ample closets, pantries, and built-in storage to help reduce clutter without sacrificing your most precious belongings. Storage space helps you stay organized as you move into your new home and helps maintain daily comfort.

Modern Kitchens Built for Real Life

The kitchen is an important room in any home, and that includes 55+ communities. Look for a kitchen with up-to-date appliances, efficient counter and cabinet layouts, and easy-to-clean surfaces. ‘Can you see yourself cooking and entertaining in the new space, or does it seem cramped and difficult to navigate. Small extras like under-counter lighting and pantry organizers go a long way toward making daily life smoother.

In-Home Laundry & Everyday Convenience

Shared laundry rooms are an inconvenience you can do without in your new apartment. That arrangement might work for college dormitories, but it has no place in active adult living. Overture 55+ Apartments include your own full-size washers and dryers, eliminating the hassle of waiting for machines to become available and ensuring your privacy.

Accessibility Features Like Elevators

Senior living amenities should include accessibility and mobility features in both your apartment and the larger building. Look for items like low-threshold showers and handrails in bathrooms — you may not need them now, but they’ll be there if you do. Apartments should remove physical barriers that prevent residents from moving freely and safely; look for large elevators, wheelchair accessibility, ramps, and well-maintained pathways (a very important consideration if you choose to live in regions where snow and ice are common in winter).

Low-Maintenance Living

Freedom from maintenance work is one of the great benefits of 55+ communities. You have your independence and keep your own apartment, but the heavy work — the snow shoveling, landscaping, and repairs —is all taken care of for you. Instead of spending all your time in the yard, you can reclaim your time for hobbies, friends, travel, and community involvement. If you can’t give up your green thumb, you can always enjoy some patio gardening!

Variability and Senior Living Amenities

Different 55+ communities will have different amenities and floor plans, depending on the community and its location, and no one active living apartment is perfect for everyone. Take your time evaluating different locations, consider what you need, and ask plenty of questions. You’re sure to find an apartment that matches your needs!

Websites and brochures can give you a general feel for an apartment, but nothing beats an on-site tour of the grounds, floor plans, and community. Arrange to tour an Overture community and see why we put the active in active adult apartments!