About Retirement Communities in New Mexico
Because of its warm climate, plentiful recreation and cultural amenities, as well as a relatively low cost of living and geographic location, New Mexico is home to many retirement communities, most of which are located in large cities such as Albuquerque, Los Alamos and Sante Fe. Retirement communities provide a cohesive community of residents age 55 and older who want to enjoy life and remain active but live independently. People are living longer, and this fact contributed to the development of retirement communities in New Mexico.
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History
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The history of retirement communities began in the 1960s by developer Del Webb in Arizona. The premise was to provide an active lifestyle to men and women 55 and older who were relatively healthy, retired or semi-retired and who wanted to continue enjoying life. They were for people who wanted to "downsize" without the burdens of large home ownership and responsibilities and to pursue interests and hobbies with other people in their age group. Today there are different kinds of retirement communities. Some are designed to accommodate residents who anticipate physical challenges and deteriorating health. Others are designed for people who intend to live many more years and want to live where there are many intellectual and recreational amenities.
Types
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Retirement communities in New Mexico offer a wide range of developments and living/housing arrangements that appeal to age-specific markets as well as those with varying needs and interests. Their types vary from total independent living in private single family homes and apartments, to assisted living facilities in multi-story buildings, to medically structured nursing home care. Some have one or the other, and some have all three. An individual's options depend on his or her health status, costs, available services, amenities and the degree to which an individual can care for himself in the short or long term.
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Features
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Active retirement communities in New Mexico include Jubilee Los Lunas, one of New Mexico's largest age-restricted developments with single family homes. RainbowVision Santa Fe and Aspen Ridge Lodge includes retirement and assisted living in beautifully designed facilities that complement the native landscape. They offer rental apartments with full kitchens, a wide range of recreational activities including golf, tennis, social events, swimming, a clubhouse, a fitness center, arts and crafts and excursions. La Vida Llena is a multi-level "life care" community that focuses on assisted living and health care services.
Geography
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New Mexico's geography has much to do with demands for retirement communities in that state. Seasonal climate, location convenience and travel distance to large cities, shopping and airports are some of the concerns of prospective residents and owners. Low maintenance, security, privacy and gated communities are other factors considered. Jubilee Los Lunas is located in the "high desert" of New Mexico. The state's geography varies, and community locations are important factors in the retirement decision-making process.
Expert Insight
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Those considering retirement in an age-restricted community in New Mexico ahould visit a range of facilities before making any decisions. Many of these communities offer tours of their facilities and opportunities to talk with residents and staff, or even participate in some of the amenities or programs.
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