SENIOR LIVING
Hank Vander Veen EDITOR
Kristina H Hacker
ART
Harold L George GRAPHIC
Sharon Hoffman
Chris Castro
Beth Flanagan Melody Wann
Charles Webber
Matheson
Mindful Technology Use
TECHNOLOGY IS EVERYWHERE. IT’S THE WAY WE STAY IN TOUCH WITH FAMILY, MANAGE OUR APPOINTMENTS, EXPLORE HOBBIES, CONTROL OUR ENVIRONMENT, PLAY GAMES AND TRACK MEDICATION.
Digital tools can offer connection and convenience. At the same time, too much screen time or poorly chosen technology habits can leave people feeling distracted, frustrated or fatigued. Mindful technology use focuses on balance, intention and well-being.
Rather than asking whether technology is good or bad, the more useful question is how it fits into daily life. When used thoughtfully, digital tools can support independence, learning and social engagement without overwhelming the senses or replacing meaningful offline experiences.
USING TECHNOLOGY WITH PURPOSE
Mindful technology use begins with clarity. Knowing why you are using a device helps prevent endless scrolling or digital overload. Technology works best when it serves a specific purpose, such as connecting with loved ones, accessing information or supporting health needs. Video calls and messaging apps can help maintain relationships across distances, especially for seniors who live alone or far from family. Online classes, museum tours and discussion groups make it possible to explore interests and continue learning from home. Health portals and reminder apps can simplify medication schedules and appointments when used selectively.
It can be helpful to periodically review which apps and services are truly useful. Removing rarely used or stressful appli-
cations can reduce clutter and make devices easier and more pleasant to use.
SETTING HEALTHY BOUNDARIES WITH SCREENS
Spending long periods in front of screens can strain eyes, disrupt sleep and reduce physical activity. Creating gentle boundaries helps technology remain a tool rather than a drain.
Designating screen-free times, such as during meals or before bedtime, can support better sleep and more present conversations. Adjusting font sizes, brightness and sound settings can reduce physical discomfort and make devices more accessible. Short breaks from
screens throughout the day encourage movement and mental rest. Even brief pauses to stretch, step outside or change activities can restore focus and energy.
TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS WELL-BEING
Not all technology use is passive. Many digital tools actively promote wellbeing when used intentionally. Fitness trackers, meditation apps and guided exercise programs can support physical and mental health. Audiobooks and podcasts provide stimulation without requiring prolonged screen use.
Technology can enhance safety and independence. Navigation tools, ride-hail-
ing apps and emergency alert features can make it easier to get around and feel secure while staying connected.
Learning new digital skills can be empowering at any age. Community classes, libraries and senior centers often offer low-pressure opportunities to build confidence with technology.
Mindful technology use is not about keeping up with every new trend. It is about choosing tools that align with personal values and support a full, balanced life. When technology enhances connection, curiosity and independence without overwhelming daily routines, it becomes a quiet partner in well-being rather than a constant distraction.
Celebrating Cultural Curiosity
CURIOSITY DOES NOT FADE WITH AGE. FOR MANY OLDER ADULTS, IT DEEPENS, SHAPED BY DECADES OF EXPERIENCE AND A GROWING APPRECIATION FOR THE WIDER WORLD.
Exploring art, history, food and traditions offers seniors a powerful pathway to lifelong learning, meaningful connection and renewed vitality.
Cultural curiosity is not about mastering new subjects or traveling far from home. It is about remaining open to ideas, stories and experiences that broaden perspective and spark joy. Whether through a museum visit, a shared meal or a new tradition, engaging with culture keeps the mind active and the heart connected.
LEARNING THROUGH ART AND HISTORY
Art and history invite reflection, conversation and discovery. Visiting galleries, attending performances or exploring historical sites can awaken memories while offering new ways to see the world. Many cultural institutions provide senior-friendly programming, virtual tours and discussion groups that make participation accessible and social.
Learning does not require formal study. Reading historical fiction, watching documentaries or listening to lectures can deepen understanding at a comfortable pace. Even revisiting familiar eras or artistic styles can reveal fresh insights when viewed through the lens of lived experience.
Engaging with culture supports cognitive health. Research shows that activities involving interpretation, analysis and storytelling help stimulate the brain and
encourage curiosity. Discussing what one has seen or learned with others adds an important social dimension to the experience.
FOOD AS A GATEWAY TO CONNECTION
Food is one of the most approachable ways to explore culture. Trying new cuisines, learning family recipes or attending cultural food festivals can create opportunities for shared enjoyment and conversation. Meals often carry stories, traditions and memories that connect generations.
Cooking and eating together fosters social bonds while celebrating diversity. Hosting a themed dinner, participating in a community potluck or taking a cooking class can transform everyday meals into meaningful cultural experiences. For seniors living alone, food-focused activities offer a welcoming way to connect with others.
Cultural curiosity through food encourages mindfulness. Paying attention to flavors, textures and traditions brings a sense of presence that enhances enjoyment and appreciation.
TRADITIONS BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER
Exploring traditions, whether familiar or new, helps build understanding and connection. Cultural celebrations, music, storytelling and rituals offer opportunities to participate in something larger than oneself. Attending festivals, joining cultural organizations or volunteering at community events allows seniors to stay engaged and socially active.
Sharing one’s own traditions is equally meaningful. Passing down stories, crafts or holiday customs honors personal history while inviting others into that experience. These exchanges strengthen relationships and create mutual respect across cultures and generations.
Health Care Companions
HEALTH CARE APPOINTMENTS
CAN BE OVERWHELMING AT ANY AGE, BUT FOR MANY OLDER ADULTS, THEY COME WITH ADDED COMPLEXITY.
New diagnoses, multiple medications and unfamiliar terminology can make it hard to absorb everything discussed in a short visit. That is why more seniors are choosing not to go it alone. Bringing a trusted companion to medical appointments is becoming an important part of navigating care.
According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, 38% of adults age 50 and older had someone attend their health care appointments with them in the past year. Most commonly, the person was there to provide company or help ask and answer questions. The results highlight how valuable shared support can be in medical settings.
WHY HAVING SOMEONE THERE HELPS
Appointments often move quickly, and it can be difficult to process information in real time. A companion can listen closely, take notes and help clarify instructions. They may notice details that the patient misses or remember questions discussed ahead of time.
The same poll found that 92% of older adults who brought someone with them to a health care appointment agreed the presence of another person was helpful. That overwhelming agreement reflects more than just practical assistance. Emotional support also plays a role. Simply having someone there can ease anxiety and help patients feel more confident speaking up.
Companions can also help bridge communication gaps. They may ask followup questions, request clearer explanations or help restate concerns in ways
clinicians can address. This can lead to better understanding and more informed decision-making.
SUPPORTING OTHERS THROUGH SHARED CARE
Health care companionship is not onesided. The University of Michigan poll found 34% of adults age 50 and older attended the health care appointments of another person age 50 and older in the past year. In these cases, companions most often helped ask or answer questions or assisted with understanding medical advice.
This shared approach to care reflects strong social ties among older adults. Spouses, siblings, adult children and close friends often take turns supporting one another, especially when managing chronic conditions or complex treatment plans.
For companions, attending appointments can provide reassurance. Hearing information directly from a provider reduces confusion and helps everyone stay on the same page when it comes to care decisions and next steps.
MAKING THE MOST OF A HEALTH CARE COMPANION
To be effective, companions should be chosen thoughtfully. Trust, good communication and respect for privacy are key. It helps to discuss goals ahead of time, such as what questions to ask or what information to focus on.
According to the poll, adults said having another person at their appointments improved their experience. Specifically: 92% said it was helpful, 83% said it helped them feel comfortable sharing their health information, 79% said it helped them follow through on the provider’s instructions and 76% said it positively affected the quality of care they received.
Tech-Forward Companionship
LONELINESS AND SOCIAL ISOLATION ARE GROWING CONCERNS FOR OLDER ADULTS, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE LIVING ALONE OR MANAGING HEALTH LIMITATIONS.
At the same time, technology is evolving in ways that go far beyond convenience. Artificial intelligence is beginning to offer new forms of companionship, support and engagement that can meaningfully enhance daily life for seniors when used thoughtfully.
Tech-forward companionship does not replace human relationships. Instead, it supplements them, providing connection, stimulation and reassurance during moments when people may otherwise feel alone or unsupported.
According to a University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, the use of AI among seniors has become increasingly common — 55% of people age 50 and older use AI for purposes such as health information and social connection. Of those who use AI-powered home security devices and systems, 96% said the devices help them live independently and safely in their homes. The percentage is at 80% for those who use AI-powered voice assistants.
However, there are still some reservations. Almost all — 92% of adults — said they want to know whether the information they receive is from a person or is AI-generated and 81% want to learn more about the risks of AI. A full 46% of older adults say that they have little to no trust in AI-generated information.
Commonly used AI technology include Amazon’s Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, ChatGPT, Gemini or Copilot. Seniors report using them for entertainment (37%), to receive non-health information (30%), to receive health information (30%), for social connection (12%), to create text or images (11%) or to plan an activity (9%).
HOW AI SUPPORTS DAILY CONNECTION
AI-powered tools are increasingly de-
signed to interact in natural, conversational ways. Voice-activated assistants can answer questions, share news, play music or tell stories, offering a sense of presence throughout the day. For seniors who spend long hours at home, these interactions can add structure and reduce feelings of isolation.
Some AI platforms are designed specifically to provide companionship, engaging users in conversation, games or memory prompts. These tools can adapt to personal interests and routines, making interactions feel familiar and personalized over time. For individuals who are hesitant to burden family members with frequent calls, AI offers a low-pressure
way to stay mentally and socially engaged.
Technology can help maintain human connections. AI-enhanced communication tools make video calls easier to initiate, translate messages across languages and assist those with hearing or vision challenges. These features remove barriers that might otherwise limit social interaction.
SUPPORTING INDEPENDENCE AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
Beyond companionship, AI plays a growing role in supporting independence. Smart home systems can monitor
daily patterns, remind users to take medications or alert caregivers if something seems amiss. These tools offer peace of mind while allowing seniors to remain in their homes longer.
AI-driven wellness apps can guide relaxation exercises, track mood changes or suggest activities based on energy levels. For seniors managing anxiety, grief or life transitions, these gentle prompts can encourage emotional self-awareness and self-care. Importantly, many of these technologies are designed to learn preferences over time. The more they are used, the better they can tailor support, making daily routines smoother and less stressful.
Every moment counts and every experience matters. Here, residents in both our senior living and memory care neighborhoods find meaning, connection, and joy each day.
Residents pursue purposeful living through:
• Engaging Activities: Happy hours, creative programs, and familiar daily routines that enrich each day.
• Building Connections: A warm, welcoming environment where friendships grow and everyone feels at home.
• Personalized Care: Individualized care plans created in partnership with families.
• Giving Back: Opportunities to share talents, stories, and wisdom.
Experience the joy of our community with a personal tour. Visit MantecaAL.com or call 209-305-4896 to learn more.
Senior Living Options
FOR MANY PEOPLE, THE PHRASE SENIOR LIVING STILL BRINGS TO MIND TRADITIONAL NURSING HOMES.
In reality, today’s older adults have a wide range of living options designed to support independence, safety and quality of life at every stage.
Understanding the differences among these choices can help individuals and families make informed decisions that align with personal needs and preferences.
Modern senior living emphasizes flexibility and choice. Communities are designed not just to provide care but to support active, engaged lifestyles while offering varying levels of assistance as needs change.
INDEPENDENT AND ACTIVE SENIOR LIVING
Independent living communities are designed for older adults who do not need daily medical care or personal assistance. Residents typically live in private apartments or cottages and enjoy amenities such as dining services, fitness centers, transportation and social programming. These communities focus on convenience, connection and maintenance-free living.
Active senior communities, sometimes called 55-plus communities, are geared toward healthy, independent adults who want a lifestyle centered on recreation and social engagement. These neighborhoods often feature fitness classes, clubs, walking trails and organized activities but do not provide on-site personal care or medical services.
Both options emphasize autonomy and community, making them appealing to seniors who want to simplify daily responsibilities without giving up independence.
ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE
Assisted living communities support residents who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management or meal preparation. Residents maintain private living spaces while having access to staff support and
structured services. Assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and more intensive care.
Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These communities offer secure environments, specially trained staff and programming tailored to cognitive needs. Layouts, routines and activities are designed to reduce confusion and promote comfort and safety.
Memory care focuses on dignity, structure and individualized support while encourag-
ing engagement at an appropriate level.
CO-HOUSING AND CONTINUING CARE OPTIONS
Senior co-housing is a community model in which residents live in private homes while sharing common spaces and responsibilities. These communities are often self-governed and emphasize collaboration, mutual support and social connection. Co-housing appeals to seniors who value independence but want strong neighborly ties.
Continuing care retirement communities, or CCRCs, offer multiple levels of
care within one campus. Residents may start in independent living and transition to assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing as needs evolve. This model provides long-term planning and continuity while reducing the need for future moves.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FIT
No single option fits everyone. Health needs, lifestyle preferences, finances and desired level of independence all play a role in choosing a senior living arrangement. The good news is today’s choices reflect a broader understanding of aging as an active, evolving stage of life.
Hobbies to get seniors out and about
THE THREAT POSED BY SOCIAL ISOLATION HAS BEEN KNOWN TO MEDICAL RESEARCHERS AND HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS FOR YEARS, BUT THE ISSUE GAINED WIDER ATTENTION DURING THE PANDEMIC.
Restrictions on social gatherings during the pandemic opened millions of people’s eyes to the ill effects of social isolation, and while that threat proved temporary for the majority of people across the globe, many seniors continue to live largely isolated lives.
According to the Mayo Clinic, depression, anxiety, increased risk of suicide, and various chronic health problems are some of the outcomes associated with loneliness. That’s a troubling assessment that becomes even more disconcerting when considering a general decline in socialization as evidenced by the 2021 American Perspectives Survey. Survey participants indicated they have fewer close friendships than they once did, speak with their friends less often and rely less on friends for personal support. That’s challenging for adults of all ages, but it can be especially difficult for aging adults, who may be dealing with the loss of a spouse or other close confidantes they would otherwise rely on when confronting personal problems. Hobbies that promote socialization can help aging adults reestablish friendships and build new ones, paying dividends that can have a profound impact on their overall health. With that in mind, adults who feel as though their social circles are shrinking in mid-life or in retirement can look to these activities as means to rebuilding their social lives.
● BOOK CLUB
A book club offers multiple benefits to adults. Book clubs are inherently social and tend to bring like-minded individuals together, which can help build new and lasting friendships that extend beyond weekly discussions. A 2021 study published in the journal Neurology also linked regular reading to a lower risk of developing dementia.
● SPORTS
Sports provide another avenue to socialize with like-minded individuals. Golf is not a team sport, but it is typically played in groups of two or four, making it an ideal activity for adults with free time on their hands to get out and about and meet other people. Leagues for softball, bowling and pickleball also provide opportunities to socialize, and many adults are participating in such leagues for that very reason. A CivicScience study released in 2025 found that 49 percent of adults who planned to participate in adult recreational sports leagues were doing so for social interaction and the chance to make friends.
● TRAVEL
Travel can provide another means for aging adults to make friends. Group tours to foreign countries, day trips to local attractions arranged by township recreational offices or even overseas trips with friends you’ve fallen out of touch with can be a great means to build new friendships and reinvigorate old ones, all the while getting you out of the house. These are just some ways for men and women to get out of the house and socialize with others their age, a worthy endeavor that can be highly beneficial to adults’ overall health.
Nutrition for Energy
FOR MANY OLDER ADULTS,
NUTRITION ADVICE CAN START TO FEEL REPETITIVE: EAT LESS, AVOID THIS, LIMIT THAT.
While managing health conditions matters, food can be a powerful source of energy, pleasure and connection. Shifting the focus from restriction to nourishment can help seniors feel more vibrant and engaged in daily life.
Eating well is not just about preventing illness. It is about fueling the body for movement, conversation, creativity and enjoyment. When meals are satisfying and supportive, they become something to look forward to rather than another task to manage.
FUELING STAMINA
One common nutrition-related complaint among seniors is low energy. Skipped meals, overly restrictive diets and inadequate protein intake can all contribute to fatigue. Building meals around steady sources of fuel helps support stamina from morning through evening.
Protein plays a key role in maintaining muscle strength and endurance. Including foods such as eggs, yogurt, beans, fish, poultry or nut butters at each meal can help prevent energy dips. Pairing protein with complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables provides longer-lasting fuel than refined sugars alone.
Healthy fats matter. Olive oil, avocados and nuts support satiety and sustained energy while adding flavor and texture. Staying hydrated is equally important, as even mild dehydration can lead to sluggishness and headaches. Water, herbal teas and foods with high water content can all help meet daily fluid needs.
BRINGING ENJOYMENT BACK TO THE TABLE
Nutrition works best when food is enjoyable. Taste changes and appetite shifts can occur with age, but meals don’t have to be bland or boring. Using herbs, spices and varied textures can revive interest in eating and make meals more satisfying. Enjoyment can come from flexibility. Allowing room for favorite foods, cultural traditions and occasional indulgences supports a healthier relationship with food. Eating ought to feel nourishing rather than punitive.
Cooking does not have to be complicated to be satisfying. Simple meals prepared with care can provide comfort and pleasure without requiring hours in the kitchen. For those who find cooking challenging, meal kits, community meals and shared cooking arrangements can help maintain variety and interest.
NUTRITION AS A SOCIAL CONNECTOR
Meals are often the center of social life. Sharing food with others encourages regular eating, sparks conversation and reduces isolation. Whether it is a
weekly breakfast with friends, a potluck at a community center or cooking with grandchildren, food can be a powerful way to stay connected.
Planning meals around social activities can boost motivation to eat well. When food becomes part of a shared experience, it supports both physical energy and emotional well-being.
Nutrition that supports energy is not about perfection. It is about choosing foods that help seniors feel strong, satisfied and engaged in the life they want to live. When meals nourish both body and spirit, energy often follows.
Climate Change and Older Adults
CLIMATE CHANGE HAS BEEN A HOT TOPIC FOR DISCUSSION FOR YEARS NOW AND MORE THAN EVER, OLDER ADULTS ARE STARTING TO FEEL THE EFFECTS.
From extreme heat to severe storms and prolonged power failures, changing weather patterns are shaping daily life and health risks for seniors across the country.
According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, 74% of people age 50 and older experienced at least one extreme weather event in the past two years. These events included extreme heat, poor air quality from wildfires, severe storms and long power failures. For many seniors, these disruptions are not rare occurrences but part of an emerging pattern.
HOW EXTREME WEATHER AFFECTS SENIOR HEALTH
Extreme weather events can affect
health in both direct and indirect ways. Heat waves increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for older adults who may have chronic conditions or take medications that affect temperature regulation. Poor air quality from wildfires or pollution can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Severe storms and power failures can interrupt access to medical equipment, refrigeration for medications and reliable transportation. Flooding and infrastructure damage may limit access to clean water, nutritious food and health care services. These disruptions can be especially challenging for seniors who rely on regular routines or outside assistance.
The poll found that a majority of older adults are already concerned about these risks. Nearly six in 10 respondents, or 59%, said they are concerned about the effect of climate change on their own health. Even more, 74%, expressed concern about the health of future generations.
INFORMATION GAPS, PREPAREDNESS CHALLENGES
Despite growing concern, many seniors feel underinformed. The University of Michigan poll reported 27% of adults age 50 and older said they do not have enough reliable information about how climate change affects their health. Another 28% said they were unsure. This lack of clarity can make it harder to prepare for emergencies or recognize health risks related to extreme weather.
Health care providers could play a stronger role, but conversations remain limited. Only 6% of older adults said a health care provider had talked with them about preparing for climate-related health emergencies. However, among those who had that conversation, 64% took action as a result, suggesting that guidance can make a meaningful difference.
According to the poll, older adults rely on the following sources for news about climate change: 54% on television or radio, 41% on newspapers/magazines/ journals, 22% on social media, 20% on family or friends, 9% on a health care providers, and 12% on other sources.
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STEPS TOWARD RESILIENCE AND AWARENESS
While climate change presents real challenges, preparation can reduce risk. Staying informed about local weather alerts, creating emergency plans and identifying cooling or clean-air spaces are practical steps. Seniors can also talk with health care providers about how medications or conditions may interact with extreme heat or poor air quality.
Climate change is not an abstract issue for older adults. It is a present-day health concern that affects safety, independence and quality of life.
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A home-buying guide for empty nesters
THE DAY A CHILD LEAVES HOME CAN BE BITTERSWEET FOR PARENTS.
Although a son or daughter being successful and mature enough to move on to new opportunities can be a source of pride, parents typically lament the quiet that comes from empty rooms and a change to the daily routine they’d grown accustomed to when the kids were around. After some time, some couples decide to downsize to a home more befitting the empty nester lifestyle.
Downsizing presents an option for homeowners whose kids have left the nest. New analysis from a survey of 2,500 empty nesters commissioned by Regency Living found that 30 percent of empty nesters choose to downsize and move from their original family homes. When retirement is just around the corner, many professionals shift focus to how they want to live and where. Moving to a new home presents plenty
of opportunities for older adults, including a chance to choose a home based on what’s right for them in this stage of life. There are questions homeowners can ask themselves as they ponder if downsizing is right for them.
1. How much upkeep can I handle?
A lifelong family home may be wellloved, but chances are it requires significant upkeep and repairs. Empty nesters may choose to move on to a home that offers lifestyle benefits like less maintenance. Homes in lifestyle communities or those overseen by a homeowners’ association tend to have certain maintenance built into a monthly fee.
2. Is this layout still a fit?
Many empty nesters may not immediately feel the effects of aging, but before selecting a next home, individuals should think about aging in place and any unique needs they may have. Opting for a single-level home, or at least one with
the owner’s suite on the main level, can be advantageous.
3. Can I make due with less square footage?
A cavernous home with many rooms often isn’t desirable for empty nesters. All of that square footage requires heating, cooling and maintenance. Rattling around inside a big, empty house may precipitate the decision to downsize. Downsizing also can free up home equity, which can be used to fund retirement needs.
4. Which features do you desire?
Many empty nesters want the next home to focus on some luxury items they may have bypassed in the first home when priorities lay elsewhere. Upscale environments like gourmet kitchens, spa-like bathrooms and outdoor living spaces may be in the budget when moving into a home with a smaller footprint.
5. Will my home be secure while I travel?
Empty nesters might want to choose homes in gated communities or condominium complexes for safety reasons. Should they opt to spend a portion of time at a vacation rental or second home as snowbirds, secure communities enable residents to leave their primary residence with the peace of mind that those homes will be less vulnerable to thieves.
6. Does this home have enough light?
The American Optometric Association says many adults start to have problems seeing clearly beginning at age 40. Homes with more light from large windows and artificial lighting can reduce accident risk.
Moving to a smaller home is a consideration for many empty nesters. Various features offer benefits to adults who want to age in place.
FAQ about active adult communities
HOMEOWNERS IN MID-LIFE OR OLDER MAY PONDER A HOST OF CHANGES AS RETIREMENT DRAWS CLOSER.
One of the more significant changes homeowners may consider relates to their homes. Some homeowners may be entrenched in their forever homes, while others may be considering moving to a residence that’s more manageable and/ or amenable to lifestyle changes. Homeowners among the latter group may be looking to active adult communities as they seek to downsize in an effort to spend less time working on their homes and more time socializing.
A range of variables has drawn people to active adult communities. A recent survey conducted by SurveyMonkey Audiences for 55places found that 64 percent of respondents identify interest in health and fitness groups within 55+ communities as attracting them to such residences, which typically boast a range of additional amenities that might appeal to adults 55 and over. Adults interested in active adult communities are urged to contact local representatives of such collectives to get specific information, but the following are some frequently asked questions that can offer insight into 55+ communities.
Do I need to be 55 to move in?
It’s typical that individuals who aspire to live in active adult communities be at least 55-years-old, but there might be some exceptions. For example, a married couple in which one spouse is 55 and the other nearing that age might still be eligible.
Is this a typical senior living community?
Conceptions of communities designated for aging adults vary, but those who perceive active adult communities
as catering to individuals with chronic illnesses may be mistaken. Active adult communities are generally designed for residents who are physically active and want to remain so, and many of these communities feature single-family homes or condominiums owned by the residents. Health care facilities like gyms are commonplace at 55+ communities, but health care services like medical care and other features are typically not available on-site.
Do communities feature HOA fees?
Fees are commonplace at active adult communities, where residents typically do not want to worry about home mainte-
nance tasks like mowing the lawn or exterior repairs. Fees will vary by community, but they must be factored in when considering if a community is the right fit.
Can I host guests for overnight stays at an active adult community?
Residents are typically allowed to host guests for overnight visits at active adult communities, but the length of stays may be limited. Some communities limit overnight guest stays to a predetermined number of days or weeks per year. Each individual community may have its own rules.
Do I still need homeowner’s insurance?
Expenses like homeowner’s insurance are generally not covered in HOA fees. Residents will need to take out their own homeowner’s policies.
What about utilities?
Utilities also are not typically part of the HOA fees, so residents will need to factor utility costs into their overall budgets when determining if a given community is affordable.
Answering these questions and more can help adults 55 and over determine if active adult communities are right for them.
