As you explore senior living options, you may run across the term active adult communities. What are they and how do they differ from other types of senior living communities? These are communities that offer relatively maintenance-free independent living residences to those age 55 and over. There are two types of active adult communities:. Residences in these 55 and over communities can be owned or rented single-family houses or patio homes, townhouses, apartments, condos or even mobile homes. These communities are often near shopping, restaurants and local attractions.

Note: There are other types of age-qualified communities for seniors as well, among them continuing care retirement communities [also called CCRCs or life plan communities] and rental retirement communities. These communities can be comprised of single-family houses, as well as multi-family patio homes, condominiums, or townhomes, with units that are owned by the resident as opposed to a rental community. Often, this type of 55 and over community will be built near shopping, restaurants, parks, and other attractions, since residents are still eager to live an active lifestyle into their retirement years. Residents are able to enjoy other aspects of their retirement years, without the burden of maintaining a yard or dealing with other exterior home maintenance chores or repairs.

There are plenty of things to look forward to as you age: Retirement, a relaxed lifestyle, and more time with the family are just a few of the perks. Everything from floor plans and expected home maintenance to community events and resources cater to older homeowners. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In both cases exceptions are typically granted because there is one member of the household older than 55 years.