by Robert Borges on October 28, 2024
While active adult communities may only allow adults fifty-five years and older to live there, that doesn’t mean the people moving into retirement communities in Virginia and elsewhere are in their mid-fifties.
In fact, the average age of the residents in a retirement community is eighty-four, and there are usually more independent-living women than men. Most residents move into an age-restricted community between the age of seventy-five and eighty-four. These communities attract a diverse group of residents, ranging from CEOs of large corporations to musicians and homemakers.
Age Is Just a Number
It’s not the age of the residents that makes these active-adult communities so special. Research by the American Seniors Housing Association highlights health benefits associated with the active lifestyle opportunities found in many 55+ communities. These include:
- High levels of wellbeing and happiness among those who socialize, exercise, work, or volunteer: Active adult communities often have organized activities, golf courses, swimming pools, and excursions to areas of interest.
- Healthy social relationships that bring longevity, reduced rates of depression, and better cognitive health: With more neighbors nearby, it’s easy for seniors to build new and lasting friendships.
- Physical activity leading to lower rates of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and some cancers: Swimming, golfing, and pickleball are just a few of the activities commonly found in 55-plus developments.
Life in a retirement community is vibrant, and activities can often accommodate different ages, physical abilities, and levels of mobility. There are some potential drawbacks of 55-plus living but, in many cases, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Some communities may also allow a certain percentage of the population to be younger than fifty-five, although it is rare to find children in an active adult community. This is because there are often rules and restrictions in the homeowner association documents that are not particularly child-friendly.
When to Move Is Your Decision
There is no magic age for moving to a 55+ community. Some people may never go that route and prefer to stay where they are.
However, if you are ready for a maintenance-free lifestyle and a new social life with others in your age bracket, check out the community profiles on the Private Communities portal. We provide all the information you need to make the right decision!
We can also help you visit and tour any active adult communities you are considering. You can arrange a discovery package on our website and spend a couple of nights in homes in different communities to get a sense of what living there is all about.
Private Communities brings decades of experience in the master-planned real estate industry, working closely with leading builders and developers across the country. Our team is here to provide valuable insights as you explore retirement options. We know how to provide the knowledgeable advice and guidance you need when considering places like Asheville as a retirement destination. With our insight, you can make the lifestyle change that’s right for you!
