Quiz: Is a 55-Plus Community Right for You?

Moving to an older community can be especially significant because where you live can affect important parts of your life. People in their mid-50s may still be working, have children at home or in college and be years away from retirement, so moving to a 55-plus community does not automatically mean someone has to retire.

Moving often requires people to deal with years’ worth of possessions. Although downsizing isn’t necessarily required when moving to a 55-plus community, deciding what to do with accumulated belongings can be a major obstacle.  

One attraction of 55-plus communities is the opportunity to connect with people who may have similar interests and schedules. Residents may be retired or working less, which can make it easier to form friendships and participate in clubs, classes and activities together. But because residents are 55-plus, meeting younger people can be more difficult.

Listen to each other’s concerns and empathize with the reasons behind their positions. One useful approach is making a pros and cons list. Couples should consider questions such as what each partner believes they might lose by moving and what they might gain.