You’ve discussed the pros and cons, analyzed the numbers, and come to a decision: You’re ready to rightsize into an active adult living community to enhance the next stage of your life. Now that you’ve made this decision, you need to select a community that offers the lifestyle you desire. With several types of senior housing to choose from, this decision requires careful consideration. While active adult, independent living, and assisted living communities are often seen as interchangeable, each serves a specific segment of the population.
What are Active Adult Communities?
Active adult living communities are specifically designed for active adults aged 55 and above. They are ideal for empty nesters who are ready to jettison the burden of a house and embrace the freedom of apartment life. Active adult communities prioritize creating a lifestyle that fosters health and well-being by offering opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and intellectual enrichment.
From Olympic-sized indoor pools to state-of-the-art fitness centers, to classes and activities that foster lasting relationships with your peers, active adult living communities encourage fitness, fun, and friendship in a resort-style atmosphere. This style of living does not include assistance or meals (although these are easily arranged for an additional fee). Community members can enjoy a lifestyle change without incurring unnecessary care costs.
The residents of our Overture 55+ communities exemplify the active adult approach to life. They value social engagement, wellness, and freedom of choice without the burden and expense of home maintenance.
Active Adult Living vs Independent Living
Ironically, while active adult living communities are for completely independent residents, independent senior living is for seniors who require some level of assistance. Independent living residents may be able to handle the majority of their own needs, but services such as meals, laundry, linen delivery, maid service, on-site nursing, and planned activities are available as needed. If an independent living resident requires special care, such as assistance with daily tasks, they must hire such help from an outside source.
Active Adult Living vs. Assisted Living
Assisted living communities are designed for individuals who require a higher level of support and care than active adult living or independent living can provide. Assisted living facilities have on-site professionals who assist with daily tasks and medical care. Those services are generally included in the overall cost of the facility.
Independent active adults who do not need support services would spend unneeded dollars in assisted living facilities. An active adult community would be the smarter choice in terms of both lifestyle and finances.
Find 55+ Active Adult Communities Near Me
Overture 55+ communities are the gold standard for active adult lifestyles. Check out our resource page to gain a better understanding of our many active adult living options available, and our community page to find 55+ active adult communities near you!