A Harvard University study of over 250,000 seniors aged 65 years and older has revealed that not only are American seniors living longer, they are also leading more active and healthier lives.
With more active seniors and a wave of baby boomers approaching retirement age, it’s no wonder there’s been an explosion in the development of resort-style communities. On Long Island, for example, this “niche market has ‘exploded’ for both sales and rental developments,” the New York Times reports, estimating that “4,000 to 5,000 age-restricted units have been built on Long Island in the last five years.”
Designed for people aged “55 and better,” these age-restricted communities offer high-end living and recreation facilities, cutting-edge amenities, beautiful grounds and place a huge emphasis on entertainment and fun!
Resort-Style Assisted Living Communities Come in Many Forms
The one-size fits all approach to senior living is a thing of the past, which is why you’ll find a variety of different types of resort-style assisted living communities. From the typical subdivision where older adults can buy or rent a single-family home designed specifically for seniors; to luxury RV communities; to apartments, condos and traditional assisted living communities, the only common theme amongst these types of properties is that they’re age-restricted.
The look of the community itself, as well as the amenities and services offered, is unique to each community. Which is one reason that resort-style assisted living is so popular. Yet another draw to resort-style retirement living is the lack of upkeep required by each resident. “All the common things that would typically be a headache for a homeowner are taken care of,” Steven Krieger, a partner with the Engel Burman Group, told the New York Times.
Living in a grand, exquisitely manicured community without the responsibility of gardening, lawn care or snow removal is very exciting for senior residents, especially after spending most of their lives maintaining a home.
Another reason for the boom in resort-style living on Long Island and elsewhere across the country is that “taxes for buyers in age-restricted communities are lower than they would be for those buying a single-family home,” Mitchell H. Pally, a chief executive officer at the Long Island Builders Institute told the New York Times.
With such a variety in the cost, lifestyle and types of housing offered in resort-style assisted living communities, if you’re in the market to buy or rent you’ll have to do your research to find the right budget and fit for you.
Resort-Worthy Amenities
Seniors who are flocking to resort-style retirement communities tend to share a common vision: an exclusive, up-scale lifestyle designed specifically for them.
According to the New York Times, the appeal of a resort-style retirement community is in the comradery and socialization. There is no shortage of activities to take part in or memberships to join, and the option to be social, yet still return home to your own private living quarters offers the perfect mix for people looking to make the most of their golden years. Seniors are moving to luxury communities to continue their independent lifestyle and to take advantage of a fantastic array of resort-worthy amenities:
Activities, Education and Entertainment
There’s no limit to what’s out there. For example, in 2016 A Place for Mom described a community in Westwood, California that has an annual fashion show and offers weekly lectures from retired UCLA professors, as well as a community in New York that has more than 200 cultural and social events every month. With so many options it’s important to take your time to consider what activities you want to get involved in and then find a community that’s on the same “wavelength.”
Beautiful Grounds
Including professionally manicured courtyards, gardens, golf courses, ponds, swimming pools, tennis courts and walking paths.
Cutting Edge Therapies
Many resorts offer animal and music therapy, Snoezelen therapy and occupational and physical therapy, all from certified professionals.
Gourmet Dining
Dining choices usually feature multiple restaurants offering high-quality food, often approved by registered dietitians and prepared by certified chefs.
Luxury Living Accommodations
Including concierge services, large units with chef-style kitchens, high-end appliances, cathedral ceilings, custom cabinetry and marble countertops.
Personal Fitness Trainers and Recreational Facilities
From group exercise classes to nutritionists to personal trainers, you won’t have trouble staying active in a resort-style community!
These resort-style communities are not just geared for younger seniors in their late 50s and early 60s. Older seniors can also enjoy this luxury style of living while receiving assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, getting dressed, taking medication and participating in social activities.
Even with all these fantastic amenities, the cost to live in many resort-style communities is still more affordable than owning a private home. Mr. Crammer, a recent retiree from New York City’s Department of Finance told the New York Times that “we will be cutting our taxes by more than half… it offers us comparable living space at a much more affordable cost of living.”
With a variety of amenities, a lower cost-of-living and the socialization that help keep seniors engaged in their community, resort-style retirement communities are a hot senior living trend.
Yet, with so many potential benefits, it’s important not to dive in too quickly. Instead, take your time when researching the communities in your area so you can find a resort-style retirement community that best fits your unique lifestyle and needs now, and as you age.
To discuss resort-style assisted living options with an experienced advisor, contact: (866) 355-7043.
Which benefits of living in a resort-style assisted living community have you experienced? We’d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
