By Caitlin Wire
Making the move into adult retirement communities can be a touchy subject for seniors who are transitioning into that particular lifestyle. Countless amounts of people faced with such a decision wonder how they will keep in touch with family members, or whether they will be able to part with some of their favorite (but immovable) pieces of household furniture. Shifting into a new senior lifestyle in an Active Adult Community in the beautiful state of Arizona, however, can provide limitless opportunities for growth, friendship, and self-discovery for those in their senior years.
Arizona’s climate is predominantly dry and sunny; particularly in its southern portion. This makes it a perfect destination for those trying to escape the gloomy environment of rainier locations. The state is also home to many breathtaking landscapes including mountains, plateaus, deserts, and canyons. Outdoor recreation in the state is offered in abundance, which allows active seniors to maintain their physical lifestyles. High-quality healthcare and low housing prices are also available in Arizona.
One of the most positive attributes of living in an adult retirement communities in Arizona is the overwhelming sense of unity within the community. Seniors that become a part of these districts are grouped with other citizens that share similar interests and are just as eager to learn and create strong friendships. “The communities provide a sense of belonging, no matter your choice of activities,” Irene Hammond, a specialist in adult retirement communities in the greater Phoenix area, states. Another appealing quality of these communities is the sense of security its residents feel for the duration of their stays. “The presence of people your own age is a comfortable one, and the existence of a gate, which most have, gives a sense of security which is very important when one moves into a new neighborhood,” Hammond says.
Cons to living in such communities, however, also exist. “Many are rather cloistered and sterile,” Warren R. Bland, PhD, author of Retire in Style: 60 Outstanding Places Across the USA and Canada, relates. “Most folks would be better off retiring to real towns and cities, like Prescott and Tucson, where amenities abound and they can lead the style of active or leisure life they desire.” Bland also suggests that active seniors who are considering making the move to Arizona spend some time in their potential retirement residences to accustom themselves to the climate and general way of life.
As much as future retirees do not want to be bothered with such subjects, prospective residents should consider crime rates. Bland warns that, in addition to geographical concerns, retirees “should also pick their neighborhood carefully because crime rates vary drastically from place to place within the major metropolitan areas.”
In the end, adult retirement communities provide living opportunities. It allows active seniors to enjoy the countless luxuries retirement has to offer for them.