Active Adult Communities: Redefining Retirement Living

The Baby Boomer generation, consisting of individuals born after World War II, represents the largest demographic in U.S. history. With the youngest Boomers reaching 55 in 2019, many are at a stage where their children have grown up, allowing them the freedom to pursue their own interests. They are reducing their full-time work commitments and enjoying the fruits of their labor.

This generation feels it’s time to enjoy a more favorable climate, beneficial for both mind and body. In response, active adult communities have flourished across Florida, Arizona, Nevada, California, and Texas. These locations offer a year-round vacation atmosphere, complete with a wide array of activities and amenities designed for an energetic group. Having embraced health consciousness and longevity-focused living, Boomers, along with Generation X, are opting for vibrant lifestyles over passive retirement.

Who Lives in Active Adult Communities?

In Florida, for instance, approximately 25 to 30 percent of the residents in these communities are still part of the workforce, sometimes exploring new careers. A quarter of the population consists of snowbirds, while many maintain secondary homes up north for family visits.

What to Expect in Active Adult Communities

These communities, once known as "55 and over" communities, now offer a vast selection of activities. Residents can join clubs that cater to every interest imaginable—sports leagues, fitness centers, clubhouses, and more. Unique offerings include woodworking and carpentry studios, gem and stone collecting clubs, stained glass classes, ceramics, photography labs, domino and wine clubs, and even karaoke sessions.

In Arizona, especially, there is a large Midwestern presence, leading to the creation of state clubs such as those for Iowa and Minnesota. These clubs organize events that make it easy for newcomers to connect with fellow residents from their home state.

Luxury Meets Community Life

The trend towards luxury living is evident in the ongoing evolution of these communities. While the size of living units remains mostly unchanged, the quality and variety of home interiors have substantially improved. Lavish clubhouses, intricate landscaping, and impressive amenities ensure these homes are not just residences but also status symbols.

The health-conscious mindset of Baby Boomers keeps fitness centers bustling with activity. Beyond these centers, various physical activities are offered, including water volleyball, tennis, golf, softball, and dance. Competitions and tournaments in sports such as tennis, golf, softball, and pickleball are common.

Pickleball, in particular, has gained immense popularity in Arizona. In one community managed for over two decades, a new community center is being developed with additional pickleball courts. The expansion will provide a total of sixteen courts, including lighting and viewing stands. There’s even talk of building a 5,000-seat stadium with aspirations to host national tournaments.

Embracing Technology

As younger Baby Boomers move in, these communities are increasingly adopting technology. Apps, digital check signing, and electronic voting are becoming commonplace. The older residents are also embracing these changes, using email and mobile apps to stay connected and understand the digital world their grandchildren inhabit.

Future of Active Adult Communities

The shift towards more technologically advanced, amenity-rich communities is clear. As younger generations, such as Gen X, join these neighborhoods, there will be growing expectations for a dynamic, engaging lifestyle. Active adult communities will need to evolve continually to meet these demands and remain appealing to this active generation.