From the category archives:

Lifestyle, Social & Culture

Communal Living in Retirement: The Pros and Cons

by Susan Quilty on December 29, 2010

In the mid-1980s, The Golden Girls hit the TV scene. They entertained viewers of all ages with the joys and pitfalls of growing older and sharing a home with close friends. Though these funny ladies portrayed a living arrangement that was ideal in many ways, there were also episodes which showed some memorable squabbles and disagreements. But what is it like to share a home in real life?

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Does the “Ideal” Retirement Location Exist?

by Susan Quilty on December 20, 2010

For those who plan to relocate after retirement, finding an ideal destination is a top priority. Some have a dream location in mind, and others meticulously seek out a community that has everything they want in a retirement destination. Yet, with all this dreaming and planning, you have to stop and wonder: does an ideal retirement location really exit?

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Downsizing Your Home and Your Holiday

by Susan Quilty on December 10, 2010

When empty nesters downsize, they may find that their smaller homes are no longer the best location for hosting large holiday meals. Instead, they may choose to celebrate the holidays at the home of friends or by dining at a special occasion restaurant. Frequently, the holiday hosting duties fall to their adult children, who are now established in their own family homes. Whatever the situation, the transition from host to guest may be a bit of an adjustment.

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Does Gender Affect Retirement Location Preferences?

by Susan Quilty on December 6, 2010

As we learned in the early 1990s, conflicts in relationships may be resolved by realizing that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. But could it be that John Gray’s popular theory applies to retirement decisions as well?

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Retiring Near Family: Pros Versus Cons

by Susan Quilty on December 3, 2010

As the winter holidays approach, many families who live far apart make plans to visit and celebrate together. For some retirees, the holidays make them long for more frequent visits and perhaps a closer relationship. For others, these seasonal visits are enough to last them another year. To be content with your decision year-round, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of retiring near family before choosing your retirement location.

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Line Dancing Kicks Its Way Into Active Adult Communities

by Susan Quilty on November 22, 2010

Kids, teens, and adults of all ages have fun kicking up their heels with a little line dancing. At active adult communities, residents can often participate in line dancing classes or join a line dancing social club. But what is it about this activity that draws in both dancers and non-dancers alike?

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Singles Find Fun Ways to Mingle in 55+ Communities

by Susan Quilty on November 12, 2010

In the 1980s, The Golden Girls showed America that singles can be vibrant and sexy at any age. These iconic television characters may have famously shared stories over late-night cheesecakes, but they were also depicted as active adults who enjoyed volunteer work, taking classes, working, dating, traveling and taking part in community plays and events. Today, single men and women over the age of 55 can find a similar lifestyle at a number of resort-style active adult communities.

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Helpful RV Packing Tips for Snowbirds Heading South

by Susan Quilty on November 8, 2010

There are many items that southbound Snowbirds must remember when packing up their RVs. The best way to be prepared is to make a detailed list and check off the items as you go. The packing list itself should also come along. Stash the list in an easily accessible drawer and add items to it while traveling. That way, you can be even more prepared when packing up in the following years.

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Age-Restricted Communities are Not Just for Retirees

by Susan Quilty on November 5, 2010

Though active adult communities are often thought to be synonymous with retirement communities, many of the residents in these age-restricted developments are not retirees. As overall health and longevity continue to improve, today’s older adults frequently continue to work beyond the traditional age of retirement. Yet those that are still working can enjoy the many benefits of living in an active adult community.

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How To Plan A Spooktacular Halloween Party

by Susan Quilty on October 13, 2010

October brings the colors of autumn, a time of harvest and a certain ghoulish holiday. Though Halloween is known as a favorite among kids, they aren’t the only ones who have fun getting into the spirit. An empty nest may mean the end of trick-or-treating, but it also gives parents a chance to reclaim the holiday with their own adult Halloween party.

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Active Adult Communities are Flush with Card Sharps

by Susan Quilty on October 6, 2010

Active adult communities, designed for those aged 55 or better, provide a full spectrum of amenities to promote healthy, active living. This includes physical activities, like golf and tennis, as well as social pursuits, such as book clubs and travel groups. No matter the size of the community, there is one amenity that is nearly always available: a card room.

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Thrifty Travel Tips for Retirees

by Susan Quilty on September 29, 2010

A fixed income doesn’t mean the end to retirement travel adventures. There are numerous deals available for thrifty travelers, especially for those who qualify for senior discounts. By following a few simple tips, savvy travelers can make the most of these money-saving opportunities. If you are looking for a way to see the world on a tight budget, while still getting the most for your money, consider the following thrifty travel tips:

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5 Relaxing Travel Destinations: No Kids Please!

by Susan Quilty on September 24, 2010

While active adults may love children, they don’t necessarily want them around on their vacation. Whether planning a romantic vacation for two or a fun vacation for a group of adult friends, adult-only resorts will let you enjoy your time away without listening to crying toddlers or the pitter-patter of little feet. If that sounds like your idea of paradise, you may want to try one of these great adult-only travel destinations:

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Romantic American Retreats for Retirees

by Susan Quilty on September 10, 2010

With empty nests and time to travel, retirees are ready to enjoy romantic getaways. While some retirees dream of visiting Paris or Tuscany, many romantic resorts can be found right here in America. Whether looking for an island retreat, a historic manor, or a desert oasis, the following resorts will set the tone for a romantic vacation for two.

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6 Tips for Planning a Wonderful Winter Escape

by Susan Quilty on September 8, 2010

Each winter millions of snowbirds head south to spend the season in a warmer climate. They may try new locations each year, or they may have discovered a favorite winter destination that draws them year after year. For first time winter travelers, finding an ideal location for an extended vacation can be a challenge. To make the decision easier, there are some simple questions to ask yourself that can help pinpoint the perfect destination.

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