Why an Increasing Number of Retirees are Ditching Traditional Homes for Senior Living

What do you think about when you imagine your retirement? Maybe you’re nervous about the very real issues faced by older adults across the country, like loneliness, a lack of purpose, and a decline in health due to suddenly having no reason to “get up and go”. 

But the retirement landscape is shifting, and, thankfully, our living options for our golden years now paint a much brighter picture. 

Across the country, an increasing number of retirees are opting to trade their single-family homes for senior living communities. These communities understand that our aging population desires a more social, exciting lifestyle and values on-site healthcare options, without the sterile stuffiness of a traditional older person’s care home.

Justine Underhill, Chief Marketing Officer at Mirador Living, says she has seen a surge in interest from retirees who have accessed Mirador Living’s free platform to browse the modern senior living options in their area.

“Retirees are now more eager than ever to embrace a new chapter in their lives,” she explains. “Many are looking to downsize from their large homes and avoid the maintenance that comes with them. They also want to join a social environment and gain the peace of mind that comes with having healthcare services readily available.”

Downsizing and Simplification

For many retirees, the appeal of any senior living solution, modern or otherwise, lies in the freedom it offers from homeownership’s responsibilities. There’s no denying that maintaining your own home can be physically demanding, especially as your mobility declines. 

 “Imagine no longer having to worry about lawn care, shoveling snow, or even minor repairs,” Underhill says. “Senior living communities handle all that, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their golden years.”

The Issues of Cost and Privacy

Despite the growing appeal of senior living, that doesn’t mean it’s a perfect solution. As with any retirement option, there are still setbacks to even the best modern senior living community, including the initial and/or ongoing cost, perceived lack of privacy, and the fear of giving up your independence.

These concerns are all valid, but as Underhill emphasizes, there are a variety of options available. 

“Senior living encompasses a spectrum of communities,” she explains. “In our own service, we help people to decide between independent living options for active adults, as well as assisted living and memory care facilities. This allows retirees to choose the level of service that best meets their needs and budget.”

On the subject of privacy, Underhill assures that senior living doesn’t result in a loss of independence.  “Residents have their own private apartments and can come and go as they please,” she clarifies. “The focus is on enriching their lives, not restricting them.”

The Future of Senior Living

As the baby boomer generation prepares for retirement, it’s likely that the demand for modern senior communities will continue to surge. And with that, these communities will continue to evolve, offering an even higher standard of more personalized care. 

With the plethora of benefits it provides, it’s no wonder that so many seniors are ditching their own living spaces for a senior living alternative. For those who can afford it (and that’s a whole different debate), the decision just makes sense.