About Community Retirement Living

If you've raised your family and want to explore a new lifestyle, you might consider a retirement community instead of continuing on in the old homestead. Nearly all communities geared for retirees have a minimum age limit (usually 55) and offer a long list of amenities, attractions and services. Selecting a community means figuring out whether an active lifestyle, lots of social interaction or pursuing favorite hobbies after retirement is most important.

History

Del Webb built the first community for retired people outside of Phoenix, Arizona. Webb opened "Sun City" on January 1, 1960. The former cotton field that he had turned into a model community was an instant hit that New Year's weekend, with over 100,000 people driving out to see it. Sun City included its own recreation center, golf course and shopping center, and Webb's construction company went on to build many more communities modeled after his original.

Types

You can choose a community of fellow retired teachers, one offering constant outdoor activities and sports, or a miniature town based on RV travel or life-long learning. Each community is a bit different, but is often a collection of single-family homes, condominiums or townhouses, usually with gated access and 24-hour security. Some offer personal care and private nurses, while others stress independent living. Homes are usually purchased, with cost dependent on the "extras."

Features

Most communities for retirement living have walking paths and beautiful gardens with sitting areas, as well as a roster of things to do that a cruise ship's social director might envy. Many homes have special touches like walk-in showers and grab bars in the bathroom, few (if any) stairs throughout the home, and easy-to-clean, safety-conscious kitchens with low cupboards and non-slip flooring. Some allow pets, and some have facilities for overnight guests.

Considerations

For people who like to go on long vacations, whether in an RV or on a cruise, living in a retirement community offers the security of paid guards patrolling the premises, as well as neighbors to look after plants and pets. It's also a reduction in stress for many retirees to know that the responsibility for home repairs, roof maintenance and lawn care is lifted off their shoulders.

Benefits

Many retirees prefer being with their peer group. Making new friends or even having someone to talk to while walking is a big benefit. If health issues become a problem, there's usually someone either next door or in the group who's undergone the same surgery or can recommend a doctor or diet that helps. If the retirees' grown children are trying to get kids through college, having elderly parents active and happy eases the worry on all sides.

Warning

As with any housing purchase, check the contract carefully before signing the agreement. Restrictions on what can be planted in the front yard and how many (or what age) visitors and pets are allowed can all be "sticking points" if not researched beforehand. These can be as picky as any non-retirement condominium association's rules and covenants, dictating details like the color a gate or mailbox must be painted, and what lawn ornaments are permitted.

Resources

• Find a retirement community in the U.S.
• Articles on retirement communities