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.

Active Adult Living and Renting in Retirement

Renting in Retirement vs. Owning: What's the Right Fit for Your Next Chapter?

Life after 55 looks different. After years of building home equity, a career, and the thousands of little details that make up daily life, you’re ready to start enjoying your freedom. For some, this means aging in place in the home they've spent decades in. For others, it means moving to a maintenance-free active adult living community.

The renting vs. owning issue can be difficult to navigate, especially as there’s no “one-size-fits-all’ answer. For some seniors, leaving their home is unthinkable. For others, renting offers a compelling combination of flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind. So, let’s get into it—what are the advantages of renting an apartment vs. owning a home after 55?

Lifestyle and Freedom

Homeownership provides stability, but it also ties you to a single location. Renting opens the door to new opportunities. Overture 55+ communities are popular because they offer resort-level amenities like heated outdoor pools, fitness centers, and social spaces, but the real draw is a thriving community of your peers and the freedom to downsize, travel, and relocate closer to family.

Financial Flexibility

When you have equity in a home, you have some financial stability, which is great. The downside is that your cash is locked up in your home. Selling and moving into an active adult living community frees up your cash for travel, new experiences, and, if needed, healthcare.

One of the main advantages of renting in retirement vs. owning is that you’re no longer paying property taxes, maintenance fees, HOA fees, house insurance, and those pesky surprise repair bills. Your cash is yours to access as you wish, whether you want to invest it, supplement your retirement income, or help a loved one make a down payment on their own home.

Maintenance & Convenience

There’s a sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with maintaining your own home, but as you age, you may find you have less interest in mowing lawns or clambering up ladders to check the roof for leaks. Home maintenance can eat into your time and energy, preventing you from fully enjoying hobbies, family, and travel. Worse, home maintenance can lead to falls and injuries that directly affect your well-being.

Residents of Overture 55+ communities love their maintenance-free lifestyle and on-site management. If you enjoy maintaining your home, that’s awesome, but if you don't, consider renting in an active adult living community.

Planning for Long-Term Needs

Aging isn't always a smooth journey; health and mobility issues may impact your well-being, energy levels, and ability to socialize. Renting allows you to adapt your living situation as needs evolve. You can relocate to a location closer to needed healthcare facilities, while single-floor apartments with accessible features remove many of the mobility barriers that crop up in two-story homes.

Is Active Adult Living Right for You?

If you love your home, have no mobility issues, and have access to a healthy social network, then retiring in place may be the right choice for you. If, however, you want the freedom to travel and lead a flexible, active lifestyle, consider touring an active adult living community. Remember, your home should work for your life, not the other way around.