Retirees Are Leaving Senior Communities in Droves (And Going to These 4 Spots Instead)

As you work on your retirement plan, you're faced with a long list of decisions. When to start claiming Social Security? What to do with all your newfound free time? And, perhaps most importantly of all, where to live?

For years, that final question was easily answerable for many retirees — a senior living community. But over the last several years, a growing number of older Americans are bypassing or leaving traditional senior living communities in favor of "aging in place," with AARP research finding nearly three in four adults over 50 want to stay in their own homes long-term.

Why Americans are leaving senior communities

Older Americans are electing to forgo retirement communities in favor of aging in place for a number of reasons. Desires for independence and familiarity, proximity to friends and family, and lower costs of living are among the most commonly cited motivations for this shift.

Additionally, technologies like telehealth and remote monitoring, and improved visiting-care programs have made it far easier for seniors to stay put without sacrificing their safety and comfort.

Where seniors are choosing to live instead

Rather than upheave their entire lives and spend a hefty sum on bespoke retirement communities, seniors are turning to a host of other options. Some of the most popular alternatives include remaining in their own homes, moving in with family members, trying out university-based retirement communities, and settling into continuum of care communities.

Each of these options comes with benefits, like familiarity and cost-effectiveness, but there can also be some major downsides.

Seniors largely desire to remain in their homes

An overwhelming number of older adults (75%) say they'd prefer to stay in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes as they age.

However, many realize that their current residences aren't fit for their aging needs. Almost half (43%) of older adults say they plan to make modifications in order to make their homes more accessible and safe, according to the most recent AARP research.

Bathrooms, kitchens, and doorways are the most common spaces slated for retrofits on aging homeowners' lists.

Subscription-based care has made remaining at home easier

Subscription-based care, which includes models like direct primary care and concierge medicine, has played a major role in allowing more adults to age in place.

These models provide benefits like 24/7 access to health care providers, home visits, and comprehensive care plans for a flat monthly fee. Membership in one of these programs replicates many of the benefits of more traditional senior community living without requiring the full upheaval of one's life.

Multigenerational households are another popular retirement option

For others, staying in their own homes, even with outside help, may not be a viable option. In that case, many are opting for multigenerational households, moving in with their children or grandchildren.

Nearly half of all American adults are either currently caregivers or expect to become caregivers at some point, AARP found. One in three of those adults plan to provide that care within their homes.

This solution allows seniors with more complex medical or memory-care needs to receive the assistance they require while remaining in a comfortable, affordable space.

University-based retirement communities are gaining traction

Seniors looking for a more stimulating environment are increasingly opting to move into university-based retirement communities.

These facilities offer lifelong learning opportunities, campus access, and allow for intergenerational connections in a way that other retirement living options may not. For many, the wide array of activities and the chance to mingle with people of all ages and from all walks of life is massively appealing.

The appeal of continuum of care communities

Another popular option for many retirement-age adults is continuum of care communities.

These apartment-based programs allow seniors to live fully independent lives in their individual units, with access to additional support on an ad-hoc basis. For many, this feels like the best of both worlds, giving them the freedom they crave alongside extra care if, and when, they need it.

These communities also provide a more seamless transition between care levels as their medical needs change.

The tradeoffs

Cost and comfort make aging in place appealing to many. However, there are some honest tradeoffs that must be considered before making a decision.

Aging in place requires proactive planning and home safety upgrades, yet only about 18% of adults 50-plus have modified their homes.

And for those with complex medical or memory-care needs, senior living communities still offer real advantages, like round-the-clock care.

Bottom line

Ultimately, this shift away from senior living communities is more reflective of changing preferences than a complete abandonment of the old system. Demand for more traditional retirement communities remains strong, especially among baby boomers.

Deciding where to live in your golden years is a highly personal choice. You should consider factors like your health trajectory, ways to free up your retirement budget, home suitability, and support network, and weigh the best option for your individual needs.

If you do elect to age in place, plan for home modifications or care services early rather than waiting until the situation becomes untenable.

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