Baby boomers are changing the way Americans view retirement living. Not too long ago, retirees were content filling their retirement years with relaxed days by the pool in a warm climate. Today’s retirees are challenging the notion that retirement is reserved for those who want to settle down. On the contrary, many boomers are using retirement as an opportunity to explore new passions and rekindle old hobbies. As builders take note of the changing retirement desires of the baby boomers, a shift in retirement living options is on the horizon. Emily Brandon of U.S. News & World Report recently examined five next-generation retirement communities that will cater to niche communities.
1. Campus Living
Many of the fastest growing retirement destinations are near college campuses. Retirees are eager to find continuing education opportunities. Residents of retirement communities near college campuses find it beneficial to have use of campus resources such as libraries, classrooms and lectures halls. Retirees can live the life of a college student by attending lectures from renowned guest speakers and by watching sporting events.
2. Feng Shui
A growing number of retirement living communities are adhering to proper feng shui practices when designing their homes. Builders are taking note of minor design principles such as stair placement, use of color, and even avoiding addresses with the number four – as it symbolizes death.
3. LGBT Communities
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender communities are becoming more popular as a growing number of boomers are becoming more open with their sexual preferences. Many find it more comforting to live in a community surrounded by other LGBTQ individuals where they feel more accepted.
4. Retirement communities for country music lovers
Believe it or not, a community dedicated to country music lovers is scheduled to open near Nashville in 2013. The Crescendo will have a recording facility, a theater, an outdoor performance area, and a gazebo for small concerts.
5. Assisted RV Living
Traveling the country in an RV is a popular retirement practice. But as boomers age, the dream of living in an RV can become impractical. A new facility called The Rainbow’s End RV Park in Livingston, Texas includes an assisted living facility that cares for residents who live in RVs. The service provides meals, laundry, and shopping assistance to the community’s residents.
