A Place Of One’s Own

This story is a by-product of our very recent and increased longevity. It couldn’t have been written a generation ago.

Healthy retirees, looking at many more active years, have spawned a fast-growing commercial enterprise: the continuing-care retirement community for active, independent adults. Not included in our survey are the many nursing or assisted living facilities, unless they are an adjunct to one of the independent retirement communities.

Unlike the traditional country club areas that attracted retirees 20, 30 or even 40 years ago, these neighborhoods are becoming the next step in the ideal retirement lifestyle. They provide meals, exercise programs, busy social calendars and concierge services aimed at easing the burdens of household chores. Also, the new developments offer varying degrees of medical care. To the best of our knowledge, there are now six of these communities in Vero Beach, and they vary widely in what they offer, what they cost and how payment is made. There seem to be as many reasons for moving to one of these residences as there are prospective residents. For instance, some retirees move for medical security; others want the activity and companionship, while still others want to be relieved of cooking and household chores.

 Read the entire article in the January 2007 issue