What Exactly is an Active Adult Community?
Many senior living and retirement communities tout themselves as “active adult communities,” but what does that really mean? Is it an actual category of senior living? What sets an active adult community apart from other types of age-restricted senior living?
The State of Senior Living
There was a time when a retirement community was thought of more as a “retirement home,” but a broad spectrum of senior living communities has entered the marketplace over the years. Seniors can choose from a wide range of age-restricted community options that include everything from living fully on their own to having full-time nursing care.
For example, age-restricted independent living communities provide people age 55 and older with apartment-style residences along with a variety of services and amenities to facilitate a carefree lifestyle.
Assisted living communities offer many similar services and amenities of independent living but are designed for those who need regular assistance with activities of daily living.
Skilled nursing facilities, also called nursing homes, are at the top of the care continuum of senior living communities, providing residents with full-time, 24/7 care from healthcare providers.
However, the downside of these communities, is that they don’t offer a wide range of services. That’s where Continuing Care Retirement Communities come in. With a CCRC, residents have access to this continuum of care all under one roof.
The Appeal of Active Adult Living Options
While the 55 community types listed above meet the diverse needs of many of today’s retirees, many Baby Boomers are living longer, healthier lives, and as a result, they want the same type of carefree simplicity that comes with living in a retirement community.
However, they don’t want to feel like they’re giving up their independence. For these people, an active adult living community can be a potential senior living solution.
But the problem with most active adult living options is that there is nowhere to turn if you eventually need additional care.
Active Adult Living within a CCRC
To qualify for a CCRC, residents must be independent and in good health. That is why earlier is better for a CCRC move. Enjoy the benefits of an active adult living community, with the peace of mind of knowing that, should your health change, you’ll be able to receive the care you need.
No more worrying about financial security, the rising cost of health care, property taxes, or home maintenance costs – just relax and enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle that never feels like a “retirement home.”
