What is an over 55 community? There are persons just coming into the age of 45 to 55, who want to know. The 55 applies to age. You have to be age 55 and over to live in these communities. These communities are often referred to as age-restricted communities. By law, they must meet certain standards for seniors, and, if it is an over-55 community, it needs to be posted as such. You won't understand or appreciate the many benefits of these types of communities until you reach age 55, but it is good to explore them while you are younger. This is part of retirement planning which should be started as early as possible.
Most community rules say at least one person needs to be 55. However, the rules usually state that the
second person, if there is one, cannot be less than a certain age. There are further rules that apply to very young persons, usually under the age of 19. If the rules say "anyone under 19 cannot live there," then anyone under that age cannot live there as a full-time resident. These rules will usually allow a person under age 19 to reside there for a short period of time only--usually up to 3 months, but rules vary so you need to inquire.
These communities offer a quiet, and more secure setting, as many are gated. If security is important, ask what type of security is provided. The best is a 24-hour manned security gate with patrols. This gives seniors a little more peace of mind and less to worry about whether they are at home or away.
Often you hear these communities are for retirees and are referred to as "retirement communities," but you do not have to be retired to live there--just meet the age limits and, of course, be financially qualified. Many people over 55 living in these communities are still working--usually around 50%. These communities are also known as active adult communities for good reason--the residents are still very active with amenities to meet their needs.
Some of the amenities at these communities include pools, clubhouses, restaurants, clubs, golf course, tennis, fitness centers, and walking trails. Many have additional amenities such as gardens, woodworking shops, computer centers, fishing lakes, boating, movies, and library. Not all communities have all features so this is something to ask about.
Programs may include Wellness Centers, medical centers, partnering with colleges, travel, and guest speakers. On-site features may include a village shopping center that you can walk to with everything you need conveniently nearby--grocery store, cleaners, post office, bank and a variety of restaurants.
There are strict rules about nuisances such as loud music--these rules depend on your community. As you age, these things become much more important to alleviate stress and noise in your life. You can age gracefully in these communities. Not until you are older do you realize how important these communities are. Services and conveniences become necessary as our bodies age.
Most of these communities do not offer personal medical assistance. Most people living at these communities who need additional assistance hire a medical personal aide. There are also community programs to reach the elderly to bring meals and drive them to medical appointments or grocery stores. If you need more assistance, you may wish to look into assisted living, independent or lifecare communities, which usually have a higher age limit.
Over-55 communities can be found as a home purchase or rental. Over-55 rentals are called senior apartments. There are also rental single homes, cottages, and villas, but these are rarer. Some over-55 apartments are for low-income residents. The age limit on these may be higher and you are required to meet certain income requirements. They fill up fast and usually have waiting lists to get in. These are great if you have to live in an area that you cannot afford.
There are also over-55 mobile home communities, manufactured homes communities, equestrian communities and college-linked communities. Each community is different. Most will have a Visit program of some type to "try-out" the community before you buy. So what is an over-55 community--a place, whether you are still working or retired, where your daily needs, as a person over-55, can be met.
Article Provided By:
Carol Fena, Realtor and Webmaster for http://www.bestguide-retirementcommunities.com
Article Source: Carol_Fena
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