When the Neighbors Are All Older: Is Age-Restricted Living Right for You?

Kathy Fitts had always loved her roomy house in suburban Atlanta. It was a place filled with memories, where she raised her children and built a life. But as her kids moved out and the pandemic deepened the isolation she already felt as a divorced woman, Kathy decided it was time for a change. She left her longtime home and moved to Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, Florida, a vibrant, Jimmy Buffett-themed community designed for those “55 and better.” The decision brought a sense of newness and excitement, but it also raised an important question: Is it better for older adults to live exclusively among their peers, or do they benefit more from being part of a diverse, intergenerational community?

This question isn’t just personal for Kathy; it’s a topic of growing interest as more seniors explore their living options. Age-restricted communities like Latitude Margaritaville are becoming increasingly popular, especially among those seeking a lifestyle filled with amenities, activities, and the company of people in the same stage of life. These communities, which include independent living, assisted living, continuing care retirement communities, and 55-plus developments, offer a sense of safety and shared experience. However, they also come with limitations, particularly the lack of interaction with younger generations.

For some, like 66-year-old Ms. Ringler, who chose to remain in an intergenerational neighborhood, this lack of diversity can be a drawback. “I love my friends who are the same age as me, but I adore meeting and knowing people of all ages,” she says. Ms. Ringler enjoys biking through her neighborhood, walking her goldendoodle, and recognizing trick-or-treaters by name. “It keeps me more engaged with the world. It makes me feel part of a real community, a larger family.”

As for Ms. Ringler’s actual family, her adult daughter, who is about to start a new job, has temporarily moved in with her—a situation that would be prohibited in most 55-plus communities. Though surveys repeatedly show that most older people prefer to remain in their own homes as they age, about 800,000 seniors were in assisted living last year, according to LeadingAge, which represents nonprofit aging services providers. An additional 745,000 lived in continuing care communities, and three million in federally supported affordable senior housing.

The National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care estimates that 540 active adult communities with 82,000 units offer market-rate rental properties for seniors. In other 55-plus developments, residents purchase houses and condos. These communities often require a middle- or upper-middle-class income. Homes at the Margaritaville community in Daytona Beach, for example, start at about $300,000.

While age-restricted communities like these offer a built-in social network and a range of amenities designed for older adults, they may also contribute to a narrowing of social horizons. In contrast, intergenerational living can keep seniors mentally and emotionally engaged, providing opportunities for mentorship, learning, and connection with younger generations.

These interactions can foster a sense of purpose and reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation that many older adults experience.

If you’re considering your own living arrangements or helping a loved one make this decision, several apps can assist in exploring the best options:

1. AARP’s Livable Communities: This app helps you find communities that are friendly to all ages, with features that promote independence and quality of life for seniors.
2. Silvernest: Silvernest is an app that matches homeowners with compatible housemates, offering a potential solution for those interested in intergenerational living. It’s particularly useful for seniors looking to share their home with younger renters.
3. Nextdoor: This popular neighborhood app connects you with nearby residents, allowing seniors to engage with their local community, whether it’s age-restricted or It’s a great way to stay informed and involved.
4. A Place for Mom: If you or a loved one is considering a move to an assisted living or retirement community, this app offers a comprehensive guide to finding the right fit based on individual needs and preferences.
5. Village to Village Network: This app supports the “Village” model, where neighbors help each other age in place, promoting intergenerational connections and a strong sense of community.

As we consider the options, it’s clear that both age-restricted and intergenerational communities have their merits. What matters most is finding a living situation that aligns with your values, needs, and desires for social interaction. Whether you choose to surround yourself with peers or immerse yourself in a multi-generational environment, the goal is to create a life full of purpose, connection, and joy.

What are your thoughts on this? Do you think it’s better to age with peers or in a mixed-generation community? Share your experiences and join the discussion on our forum here.