A Comparison Between Active Adult vs. Independent Living Communities

As the baby boomer generation begins to reach retirement age, many older adults are exploring their options for senior living communities. In recent years, the senior living industry has evolved to meet these changing needs, creating two distinct types of communities: an active adult community and independent living. 

Though both options cater to seniors seeking a more carefree lifestyle, some key differences should be considered. This blog post will explore the similarities and differences between active adult and independent living communities to help you decide which lifestyle is right for you.

Active Adult Communities

Active adult communities — sometimes referred to as 55+ communities — are designed specifically for older adults who are generally healthy and independent. These neighborhoods offer a wide range of amenities and activities promoting an active lifestyle. The elderly from Maricopa County like to find a luxury Scottsdale retirement community that can promise all of this. It means they would have everything they could possibly need without the responsibility of owning a home, such as lawn care and maintenance.

Amenities in active adult communities often include fitness centers, golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, walking trails, and clubhouses with organized events and clubs. Residents typically enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle, as the community association manages exterior building maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal.

However, it's important to note that while active adult communities cater to seniors' physical and social needs, they usually do not provide any medical services or assistance with daily living activities.

Independent Living Communities

Unlike active adult communities that focus primarily on physical activity and leisure pursuits for residents, independent living communities offer a more comprehensive array of services designed to simplify seniors' lives.

Services included in independent living communities can consist of meals, housekeeping assistance and laundry, transportation scheduled for medical appointments, and planned social events. These communities generally provide emergency call systems and 24-hour security, giving residents extra peace of mind.

Comparing the Two

While both community styles cater to older adults seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle with onsite amenities, their differences can influence your decision.

1. Age Restrictions: Active adult communities have age restrictions (usually 55+,) whereas independent living communities do not. This means that adult children or even younger adults may reside in independent living communities.

2. Living Space: Active adult communities typically offer single-family homes, condominiums, or townhouses, while independent living communities generally provide apartment-style residences.

3. Meal Options: Independent living communities often include meal plans or dining options for residents, while active adult communities usually do not provide meals as part of their offerings.

4. Assistance Services: In independent living communities, additional services such as housekeeping and transportation may be included, whereas active adult communities generally do not offer these services as part of their standard amenities.

5. Price: Active adult communities are usually less expensive than independent living communities due to the lower level of services provided. However, monthly costs can vary widely based on factors such as location, property size, and available amenities

Ultimately, deciding between an active adult community and an independent living community depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value age-specific social interaction with peers and seek a more traditional home environment, an active adult community might be the better choice. 

If a maintenance-free lifestyle with added services such as meal plans and housekeeping is more important to you, then an independent living community may be a better fit. As you explore your options, consider your priorities and visit several communities to get a feel for what best serves your lifestyle goals.

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