7 Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community

Can you part with your stuff?

While you don’t necessarily need to downsize when moving to a 55-plus community, the transition often requires parting with years’ worth of material goods, says Meg Stoltzfus, a live well retirement navigator for Financial Council, an advisory firm based in Towson, Maryland. “Trying to deal with all the stuff they've accumulated over that time period is a huge barrier for people,” she says.

Michael Beck, 66, sees that challenge among new residents at Del Webb Stone Creek. “A lot of people make the mistake of packing up everything and bringing it all down here,” he says. He and his wife sold their Amish-made oak furniture prior to moving because it didn’t fit with the Florida landscape, says Michael. Another benefit: The minimalist approach to moving saved thousands of dollars in moving fees, he says.

Are you ready to give up your garden?

One of the factors involved in any move is the yard. Yards and gardens can be wonderful places for older adults, but the maintenance they require can be exhausting.

In a 55-plus community, you can get a living space where fees cover the yard work. It’s a great option for people who are done with yard maintenance and want more time and freedom to do other things, says Stoltzfus.

But not everyone sees those services as a benefit, she says, adding that some people may prefer to do their own gardening rather than paying a worker to tend to their lawn: They either like to tend to their own garden because it brings them joy or are naturally hesitant to farm out housework.

Are you ready to pay for services?

There is also a financial element, notes Spiering. He says older individuals considering the move to a 55-plus community need to factor in resort fees that could be higher than HOA dues in a traditional neighborhood.

While cable and internet is essential for the majority of community members, not everyone will be drawn to the pool or fitness center, which are part of most amenity packages. “If there are multiple amenities you just won’t use, maybe you should look at other communities that have lower fees,” Spiering advises.

He reminds individuals considering a move to factor fees into their budget: “I always recommend speaking with financial advisers.”

Do you want to be more social?

Sean Strickler, president of the West Florida division of PulteGroup, the parent company of Del Webb and similar communities for older individuals, says, “A lot of our buyers are looking for connection.” Opportunities to join clubs, take classes and participate in activities with people who have the same interests can be very appealing, he says. Racket sports, swimming and golf are part of a larger emphasis on health and well-being, he adds.

Frederick says considering such a move is a good time for honest self-reflection about your current state of friendships and activities. “You may find that you don’t know your neighbors as much; you’re not as engaged,” he says. Creating bonds can be easier at a 55-plus community because residents are more likely to be on a similar schedule — retired or working less — as you, notes Frederick.

Stoltzfus says for all the benefits of moving into a community with individuals at a similar stage in life, there are some upsides to living close to a wider-age-range group to consider. “Moving into a 55-plus community, it's harder to have those intergenerational friendships that can be helpful,” she says, noting interacting with people of myriad ages sparks mental sharpness.

One thing the experts say you should consider if moving to a senior living community: downsizing. It's a great time to sort through all your stuff and figure out what you really need.

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Are you and your partner on the same page?

As with many aspects of life, couples can have differing goals that should be addressed before committing to a 55-plus community, says Stoltzfus. For instance, Michael Beck says he was skittish about the prospect of relocating to Florida long before he and Connie — who liked the idea of moving closer to her relatives in the Sunshine State — seriously considered their move. He was concerned about the heat and thought he’d miss catching Philadelphia Phillies games. Ultimately, Michael decided “Hot is hot.” “It comes back to having a marriage with communication your whole life,” says Connie.

Tracy Ross, a couples and family therapist in New York City, says it’s important to avoid the temptation to put off a conversation regarding the move for fear of an argument or hurting your spouse’s feelings. She encourages couples to truly listen to each other’s concerns — perhaps making a pros-and-cons list — and empathize with the underlying reasons behind their point of view. “What do they think they’re losing by going? What do they think they’re gaining? Really hear each other out,” she says. “Try to have a conversation that doesn’t involve a ‘I hear you, but... ’”

Are you thinking long-term?

While there are examples of 55-plus communities with options for increased care as you age, most 55-plus communities tend to focus on encouraging an active lifestyle rather than factoring in later years, says Stoltzfus.

Adds Frederick: “It is not going to be your forever home.”

That being said, Frederick says older individuals who are healthy should factor in future physical challenges when selecting a home. There’s a variety of homes available in 55-plus communities, he notes. Consider whether a single-floor home or multistory house is right for you and look into bathrooms that minimize the risk of falling, too, so you can remain active and social, he adds.

“I encourage people to have a mind for today, but also a mind for tomorrow,” says Frederick.