Deciding to move to a 55+ community is an exciting time for many older adults. Who wouldn’t want to trade chores and housework for a community where fun and friendship are the main event? But it’s important to find the right community, one that meets your needs and preferences. Asking questions is a great way to learn more about the community and make sure it’s the right fit for you. Read on to learn what a 55+ community is. Then, we’ll give you a checklist of 20 questions to ask before moving to a 55+ community!
What is a 55+ community, anyway?
55+ is a widely used term in the senior living world, and it can mean a lot of different things. You’re not the only one wondering, what is a 55+ community? Officially, a 55+ community is any neighborhood, apartment building, or condominium complex that is only available to people 55 and older. The amenities, services, and amount of social opportunities varies widely.
At Stellar Living, 55+ is a resort-style experience that bridges the gap between active adult communities (which offer no services) and independent living communities. Our communities offer upscale dining, resort-style amenities, and a full and lively activities schedule. They do not provide medical care or personal care services, but they do provide housekeeping and maintenance. At a Stellar community, your days are full of everything you want to do, and nothing you don’t!
Many 55+ communities have active social clubs, like this hiking group.
Can someone under 55 live in a 55+ community?
Some communities allow people under 55 to live in a 55+ community if they have a spouse who is over the age of 55, or if they are a caregiver or family member. To officially qualify as a 55+ community, at least 80% of the community members must be 55 and older. So, communities may be able to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis. Many have strict rules and age restrictions, so check with your specific community to see if your case qualifies as an exception.
Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community: 20 Important Questions
Now that we’ve answered what a 55+ community is, here’s our list of 20 questions to ask before moving to a 55+ community. These questions will give you a jumping off point to help you establish whether or not a community is the right fit.
Financial Questions
Financial questions are some of the most important when it comes to figuring out what 55+ community is best for you.
How much does this community cost per month?
Budget is the biggest concern when it comes to senior living, and for good reason. No matter how great a community is, it won’t work for you unless it’s within your budget. A great community should be open and transparent about pricing.
What’s included in the monthly fee?
Find out what is and is not included in the monthly costs for this community. Does it include utilities, parking, maintenance, landscape services, transportation, housekeeping, laundry and/or linen services, meals, access to amenities, and/or social activities?
Are there additional move-in costs?
Some communities charge a move-in fee or transition fee. Find out the total amount you’ll owe for the first month.
How long is the rental contract term for this community?
Many communities offer month-to-month contracts, so you aren’t locked in for a specific amount of time. Others may require a one-year or two-year contract. Make sure the rental term fits with your long-term goals and plans.
Are there any additional fees or costs for seasonal maintenance, add-on services, etc?
Make sure you get the full financial picture of what this community will cost you each month. For example, are there snow removal fees? Pet fees or deposit? Storage fees?
Lifestyle Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community
There is no one-size-fits-all lifestyle when it comes to senior living. Everyone has different needs and priorities. These are the questions to ask before moving to ensure a 55+ community is a good fit for your lifestyle.
What services does the community provide?
Some communities, like many Stellar Living 55+ communities, provide tons of services, including meals, housekeeping, transportation, and more. It’s important to know what the community will and will not provide. Ask for a full list of services, and whether they are included with your monthly costs, or available for an additional fee.
What amenities are available at this 55+ community?
Ask for a full tour of the community, including any amenities. Many 55+ communities have a gym, barbershop and salon, arts and crafts rooms, movie theaters, bistros, etc. Depending on location, some may have additional amenities, like a pool, walking trails outside, games room, or spa. Do the amenities available suit your needs and your lifestyle?
Does this community provide regular activities, outings, and social events? If so, what are some recent examples?
55+ communities may or may not offer social activities as part of their services. Stellar Living 55+ communities all have full, active social calendars. This includes dozens of activities each week, including trivia night, bingo, crafts, outings to shopping and restaurants, outdoor adventures, and themed holiday celebrations. Some even have group travel experiences. Ask to see the activities calendar, to see if the amount and types of activities meet what you’re looking for.
What is the average age and activity level of your current residents?
When it comes to senior living, you’re typically looking for a community of people who are in the same stage of life. Some 55+ communities offer a more relaxed pace with residents looking to slow down, and others may be more active, with many of the residents still working and traveling. Being around others of a similar age and activity level will help you make friends more easily.
Can I talk to current residents about the community?
The best person to ask about any community is someone who already lives there! A great community won’t have any problem with you chatting with current residents. They can give you an idea of what day-to-day life at the community looks like.
Food & Fitness Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community
Food and fitness are big parts of any older adult’s life. While they may not be dealbreakers, they’re still important questions when you’re trying to figure out if a 55+ community is right for you!
Does this community offer meals as part of the monthly fees? If so, how many meals?
Hopefully this came up in your financial discussion, but if not, make sure to check now. If meals are included, how many meals per day? Some 55+ communities offer just one meal a day, while others provide all 3 meals a day, plus snacks and drinks.
How and where are meals prepared and served?
Does the community have an in-house dining room, like Stellar 55+ communities do? Who prepares the food and determines the menu? Many communities have a chef and dietician on staff who make sure the food served is nutritious, delicious, and varied. Being served restaurant-style in an elegant dining room is an added bonus. Communities may also have a quick-service bistro or cafe in addition to a dining room.
Can I try a meal here?
Lots of communities will offer you a meal at the end of your tour. Trying the food firsthand is the best way to get an idea of the type and quality of food served.
Do you offer exercise and workout classes? If so, how often?
Fitness is a key part of a healthy lifestyle for older adults. Ideally, your community will have an in-house gym and daily exercise programs. Check to see the type and variety of classes available, and how often they are held. Do you have access to the gym outside of group fitness classes?
Is physical therapy available?
Some 55+ communities have physical therapy services on-site, or contract with a local physical therapy clinic to provide services within the community. This may be included, or an extra charge.
Living Space Questions to Ask Before Moving To a 55+ Community
Take a thorough look at the apartments, condos, or cottages to see what it will look like to wake up and go to sleep at this community, and see if this 55+ community is a good fit.
What home or apartment layouts are available?
Many communities have a variety of home layouts, from studios to 2-bedroom apartments. What is currently available at this community? Ask to see an apartment to make sure it meets your needs.
Do apartments have kitchens or kitchenettes?
Some seniors like to have a full kitchen with full-size appliances so they can still cook if they want to. Others prefer to hand the cooking over to a chef, but still want to have a kitchenette for snacks and treats. If this is important to you, check to see if all apartments have kitchens or kitchenettes.
Are apartments designed for both safety and comfort?
As an older adult, it’s a good idea to check for safety features, like grab bars in the bathroom and an easy-entry bath or shower.
Safety & Security Questions to Ask Before Moving Into a 55+ Community
Safety is one of the key benefits to a senior living community, so don’t forget to ask these questions.
What overall safety and security measures does your community provide?
Are entrances staffed 24/7? Is the community gated? Are there security staff on-site? What are the community’s protocols for emergencies?
What personal safety measures does the community provide?
Does the community provide you with an emergency pendant, in case you need help fast? How is your apartment secured? Are there call buttons within the apartment?
Why Choose a Stellar Living 55+ Community?
With these 20 important questions to ask before moving to a 55+ community, we hope you’ll be able to confidently choose the best community for you.
Want to find a 55+ community near you that meets all of your wants and needs? Consider a Stellar Living community. Stellar Living is an award-winning property management company that strives to provide seniors a life that’s not just good…it’s Stellar. Current Stellar 55+ communities include:
- Broadway Proper in Tucson, Arizona
- Helena Pointe in Helena, Montana
- Sandia Vista in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Park Lane in Salt Lake City, Utah
- Edmonds Village in Edmonds, Washington
Call a 55+ community near you to schedule a tour today.
