So, you’re thinking of retiring, downsizing or just trying a new adventure and you’ve heard that a 55+ community might be a great option. But is it right for you and your lifestyle? Let’s explore some pros and cons to help you decide.

Advantages of 55+ Active Adult Communities

• Security is a common reason many people give for choosing to live in a 55+ community. Many are gated w/24 hour manned gated entry plus security patrols while others have unmanned yet still secure gated entry to the neighborhood.
• The opportunity to meet other people in the same age group with common interests and enjoy an active social life is a huge draw to these communities.
• A vast array of social activities within the community ie: golf, tennis, swimming, live theater, games (cards, board games, outdoor games such as bocce, horseshoes, etc) art classes, wine tastings, hobbies, book clubs and much more provide a constant ‘active’ lifestyle.
• Very often lawn care, exterior home maintenance and security alarm systems are all included in the HOA fees.
• Many housing options include single family homes, townhomes and condos, many with handicap accessible features.
• Depending on where you live, many 55+ communities are very close to shopping, dining, entertainment and medical facilities. Plus many of these communities offer free transportation to all  these amenities.

Wow…right? Why wouldn’t everyone want to move right in?! Well, let’s review some reasons why this might not be the option for you.

Disadvantages of 55+ Active Adult Communities

• Many people, even retired folks, love living in the diversity of a neighborhood consisting of all age groups from infants to elderly. The restrictions of a 55+ community most likely will very quickly override the positives listed above.
• Many Active Adult Communities have strong restrictions with regard to adult children or grandchildren living with them or even in some cases restrictions on extended visits. It’s important to completely understand these bylaws before buying and moving into an age restricted community.
• If you’re in your 50’s or 60’s you might not be happy in a community that caters more to retirees in their 70’s, 80’s or older. Do your homework before you buy!
• One of the biggest disadvantages of many 55+ communities is that, due to the vast level of amenities, the HOA fee might be very high. If you’re only interested in one of two of the activities offered, you might want to consider either a different community or a regular neighborhood otherwise you may end up spending a lot of your savings on activities you never use.

So, is a 55+ Active Adult Community a good option for you? Only you can decide. What’s good for your close friend might be a horrible choice for you. Explore fully what the communities you’re considering offer and determine if they will enhance or inhibit your desired lifestyle. Then move forward with confidence into the next phase of your life journey!