Costly home upkeep. The echo of an empty nest. Uninspiring neighborhoods that confine you indoors rather than supporting an active lifestyle. It’s time for a post-55 lifestyle upgrade. But how can you make this upgrade if you're not aware of your options?
As you age, a 55-plus rental home community can strike the perfect balance between independence and community living. Is a 55-plus community in tune with your life's rhythm, or is your path leading you to a different beat? Let's find out.
Understanding 55+ communities
Many individuals harbor a significant misconception: 55-plus communities are designed for those entering life’s decelerate lane. Nothing could be further from the truth. These communities are thoughtfully designed to facilitate healthy, active living.
When it comes to choosing the right type of retirement community, it's essential to understand the various options available because no community is cut from the same cloth. Let's explore some of these options:
- 55+ Communities: Age-restricted communities designed for active adults aged 55 and older.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): Comprehensive retirement communities offering various levels of care as residents' needs change.
- Assisted Living Communities: Residential facilities providing assistance with daily activities such as bathing, medication management and meals, while maintaining resident independence.
- Memory Care Communities: Specialized facilities dedicated to individuals with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, providing tailored care and a secure environment.
Within 55-plus communities, there's a significant variety, from apartment complexes and buy-in communities to 55-plus rental home communities. Each type offers a different take on independent living, fostering social connections and a wide range of recreational activities.
Cons of living in a 55+ community addressed
Privacy concerns
Living in a 55+ community doesn't mean you're signing up for a reality TV lifestyle where every moment is communal. Yes, neighbors are close, but so is the respect for personal space. It's a delicate balance between community warmth and your cherished private moments. But it’s important to note there are differences between 55-plus communities, as outlined below:
- Apartment-style 55+ communities: In apartment-based communities, you often share walls, hallways and communal spaces, leading to closer proximity with neighbors. This setup can create a socially dynamic, yet at times, socially claustrophobic environment, where interactions might feel constant, and your personal time may be more limited.
- Buy-in retirement communities: Both standalone and attached homes in buy-in communities grant ownership, but privacy differs. Single family homes offer the most privacy and control, but also the most upkeep. Attached dwellings prioritize community access but share walls and amenities.
- 55+ rental home communities: Rental homes offer the lifestyle of a single family home without the upkeep. While each home prioritizes privacy and spacious floor plans, the presence of common areas like clubhouses makes opportunities to connect just a door knock away.
Pros of living in a 55+ community
Social opportunities
As we approach our golden years, building new relationships takes more time and effort.
55-plus rental home communities are designed to foster connections effortlessly — be it through shared interests in hobby clubs or spontaneous conversations in common areas. Activities and events act as natural icebreakers, such as:
- Morning coffee gatherings
- Themed social events
- Group excursions
- Creative workshops
- Fitness and wellness clubs
- Community festivals and celebrations
- Game nights and entertainment
- Educational and hobby groups
Built-in support system
Sociologists often emphasize the significance of "social capital" — the network of positive, nurturing relationships people build and sustain. This social safety net becomes a go-to for support and assistance.
In a 55-plus retirement community, this concept of social capital takes on a tangible form. Companionship is an integral part of the community fabric. Neighbors and on-site management teams become potential friends, ever ready to share a tool, lend a hand or simply savor a cup of coffee together.
Premium amenities
Unlike traditional buy-in 55-plus communities, where amenities like a communal pool often come with hefty HOA fees, rental home communities for 55 and older adults like Mulberry Farms offer a game-changing advantage: a treasure chest of premium amenities included with your rent.
Key amenities may include:
- Meandering walking trails for leisurely strolls
- Well-equipped fitness centers to stay active without the need for a gym membership
- Inviting clubhouses that serve as vibrant social hubs
- Pet-friendly parks to enjoy quality time with your furry companions
- Pickleball and bocce ball courts for friendly competitions and active fun
- Sprawling recreational areas that inspire play and relaxation
Maintenance-free living
At a 55-plus rental home community, the burden of maintenance, from mowing the lawn to fixing a leaky roof or addressing unexpected plumbing issues, will no longer monopolize your precious weekends. You can say goodbye to the stress of scheduling repairs, as well as the cost of seasonal home upkeep.
Your weekends and evenings are entirely yours to fill with activities you love, and your financial resources and energy can be redirected toward that long-awaited trip you've always dreamed of taking.
Is a 55+ rental home community right for you?
When considering a move to a 55-plus community, it's essential to weigh your health, social life and personal preferences. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you seeking more social interaction or a quieter life?
- Do you value organized activities or prefer spontaneous adventures?
- How important is access to nearby recreational activities and amenities?
- Have you considered downsizing to simplify your living arrangements?
Understanding your personal needs and preferences will guide you in making the best decision for your lifestyle.
Discover ease of living at Mulberry Farms
No, you are not entering your sunset years. In fact, our 55-plus rental home community in Prescott Valley challenges this misconception head-on. Rather than watching the sun set, we invite you to a world where your horizons expand, your social circles flourish and each day brims with excitement.
Each 2- and 3-bedroom rental home comes with an attached garage and ample storage space, perfect for safeguarding your cherished holiday decorations, keepsakes and more. From the tranquility of your own backyard to the lively hub of The Silo Bar and other communal areas, a fulfilling lifestyle awaits.
Contact us today to schedule a tour at Mulberry Farms.
