Living with arthritis can feel as if you’re limited in deciding where your next adventure will take you. Prospective new residents must take into account mobility and accessibility concerns, conveniently situated healthcare resources, and the ability to lead an active retirement while managing arthritis symptoms. These considerations often make retirement planning overwhelming and stressful, but living with arthritis doesn’t have to be a compromise.
Working with a team of retirement experts unlocks hidden gems in the 55+ real estate market. There are many beautiful, master-planned communities suitable for active retirees with arthritis. From your very own beachside paradise to lively cities with convenient access to health and wellness resources, the sky’s the limit when it comes to finding your perfect retirement community.
Don’t get overwhelmed by the details. Make a short list of priorities for retirement communities prior to browsing potential properties. We’ve put together the top considerations for residents managing arthritis. Next, see which U.S. retirement destinations check every box. These premiere communities are setting the standard for active, accessible retirement.
Empowering wellness for every retiree starts with highlighting stellar 55+ communities across the U.S.
Considerations for 55+ Residents With Arthritis
What considerations should you think about when deciding where to retire in the U.S.? Focus on these top factors for promoting health and wellness in your daily routine.
Climate
Did you know that weather makes a big difference in managing joint pain? If you’ve been itching to move to a warmer location, there may just be a practical reason to close on that beach house. Studies indicate that cold weather thickens the synovial fluid in our joints, reducing lubrication and flexibility, and contributing to stiffness. In addition, increased humidity, common in cooler climates, further aggravates joint pain. That “bone-chilling cold” is a real factor in areas with high moisture density.
One of the more mysterious, but well-documented, triggers of arthritis pain is shifts in barometric pressure. Many individuals suffer increased discomfort during or just before a storm. Avoiding areas with extreme weather patterns, such as rain, snow, and hail, can help level out joint pain. Temperate weather can even make flare-ups more predictable so you can be proactive in treatment. When it comes to retirement planning, look for warm weather. Leave the cold climates for a weekend ski trip and settle down somewhere with plenty of sunshine.
Accessibility
Accessibility is key when reviewing retirement communities. The ideal community should suit your current mobility needs and be equipped to support future needs. This includes having accessible accommodations for shared spaces like elevators, handrails, and well-maintained, non-strenuous walking paths. Getting to your home shouldn’t be a workout. Avoid stairs without elevators and pay close attention to the home’s interior as well. If additional accessibility modifications are needed, this may be a point you can negotiate on during closing.
Lastly, look for communities with accessible gyms, rec rooms, and other amenities that will ensure you get to enjoy all the resort-style services.
Healthcare
World-class healthcare should be at the top of your retirement planning bucket list. While it may be tempting to escape to a more off-the-grid destination, managing arthritis means staying close to care providers. Look for scenic cities that offer state-of-the-art medical facilities nearby. Many 55+ communities have onsite or adjacent healthcare facilities to ensure a worry-free retirement.
Transportation
Knowing how you’ll get around town creates peace of mind in any new city. Look for areas with accessible and efficient public transportation. This empowers retirees to ditch the car, hop on a bus or metro, and make the most out of the place they’ve chosen to call home. A great public transit system should not be underestimated. Many cities have shuttles to and from medical facilities in addition to standard routes and services. Walkable cities are also a great option for residents managing arthritis. These cities tend to be well-maintained with safe routes to stroll along, free of trip and fall hazards.
Wellness
When visiting active retirement communities, it’s worth noting spas, yoga facilities, health and wellness stores, and other bonus services that will help promote a pain-free lifestyle. A wellness-centered community provides a fantastic space to connect with other active retirees. Many communities offer onsite yoga or host monthly wellness activities that include gentle stretching, low-impact cardio, and meditation.
Movement is one of the best ways to maintain joint health. Make finding a like-minded neighborhood one of your top priorities. Active 55+ communities can be found throughout the U.S. Even better, activities and recreation are a good way to get to know your neighbors and start making friends in your new home.
1. San Diego, CA
The Best Cities to Retire In While Managing Arthritis
These cities have it all! From beaches to golf courses, our premiere 55+ communities go beyond luxurious amenities and create accessible, wellness-centered spaces for everyone. The best places to retire for residents with arthritis await.
San Diego, CA
Sunny San Diego checks all the boxes for an accessible, wellness-centered city. Southern California is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy fresh air and a natural escape. We recommend San Diego over busier cities such as LA due to the many benefits of living in this oceanside community. Many areas of San Diego are walkable, with reliable public transit in the form of the San Diego MTS filling in the gaps.
It’s easy to get plugged into the health and wellness culture of the area. People are friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Best of all, you’ll discover an active city that’s accessible to all fitness levels. Waterfront yoga is popular in San Diego, offering an excellent place to get plugged in, meet new friends, and strengthen flexibility and overall joint health. You’ll find a variety of walking paths, mobility-friendly nature walks, and comfortable hikes that won’t cause a flare-up for your knees. When it’s time for a little relaxation, San Diego’s world-class spas are just a booking away. Discover great massages, holistic joint treatments, hot therapy, and, of course, all-around pampering with facials and skincare.
Did we mention San Diego has great infrastructure? The city is home to some of the top medical facilities in the nation. Establishing care is quick and effortless for new residents. There are also a wide array of options for specialty practitioners to keep you feeling your best.
Last but certainly not least, San Diego is home to balmy California weather. The area retains distinct seasons without the harsh temperature drop in the winter. The average temperature remains in the 70s with winter lows reaching the 60s and, rarely, the 50s.
San Diego 55+ Communities
If you’re looking for the comfort and convenience of a 55+ community in the San Diego area, you won’t be disappointed. These three communities are located within the city, making it easy to enjoy all San Diego has to offer.
Oaks North
Mid $500s – Low $1Ms
Oaks North is a large 55+ community with eight neighborhoods. It has nearly 2,000 homes with construction dating back to the mid-1970s and late 1980s. Most homes are single-family, but you’ll also find attached options and condos.
The Oaks North community has a thriving social scene that brings its residents together. Hit the Oaks North Golf Course to perfect your long and short games, join an exercise group, or explore the different clubs within community.
Seven Oaks
High $500s – Low $1Ms
Seven Oaks is another 55+ community in San Diego that caters to an active adult lifestyle. The community has both attached and single-family homes.
Once you step outside your home at Seven Oaks, you’ll be able to enjoy the plethora of amenities that the community has to offer. Gather at the Community Center to explore your artsy side in the crafts studio or lose yourself in a good book at the library.
Denver, CO
If fresh mountain air is calling your name, don’t rule out Colorado. Despite the snowy winters, Denver is actually a great mountain location for residents with arthritis. The high elevation means lower humidity. As a result, winters are typically dry and less irritating to arthritis flare-ups. In the summer, residents can enjoy warm, temperate weather and plenty of recreation opportunities.
Colorado isn’t simply made up of mountain peaks to scale. There are hikes for every skill level and physical ability. Check out AllTrails for the best hikes around Denver! Many trails and parks are dog-friendly and well-maintained with even terrain and low-impact climbs. There are many 55+ hiking groups in and around Denver for new residents to join.
In addition to hiking, Denver is home to many other recreation opportunities including champion golf courses, world-class ski hills, and low-impact water sports such as kayaking. More variety means more ways to stay active while managing arthritis symptoms. Ultimately, staying active keeps joints flexible and strengthens muscle tissue, improving your overall health and well-being.
One of Denver’s best-kept secret highlights is the abundance of hot springs. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh and saltwater hot springs and spas. The soothing waters have been known to possess medicinal properties and may alleviate tension, stress, and joint fatigue. Whether or not a dip in Colorado’s best hot springs is truly as healing as legend says, it’s certainly an enjoyable way to spend a weekend out.
Denver 55+ Communities
Windsor Gardens
Low $200s – Low $500s
Skiing and hiking aren’t the only outdoor activities Denver can claim. The city also has beautiful golf courses. For those who want to spend their retirement out on the green, Windsor Gardens is located around the Emerald Greens Golf Course & Club. In addition to the golf course, residents of this community can enjoy a clubhouse, outdoor pools, sports courts, and walking trails.
The homes in this 55+ community are attached-style or condos that were built in the 1960s and 1970s. While sizable, these homes are reasonably priced.
Phoenix, AZ
Arizona is a great location for nonstop sunshine with very little weather fluctuation. Unlike California, Arizona is much drier and less prone to severe storms. The low humidity makes it an ideal retirement location for residents with arthritis.
Phoenix is a lively city that features advanced medical facilities and accessible public transit. The Valley Metro is a reliable transit service for retirees to explore the best the area has to offer. Phoenix is also a city built on principles of accessibility and sustainability. Not only will you find “green” architecture and infrastructure, but Phoenix is well-maintained with plenty of mobility support in the form of elevators, handrails, escalators, and walkable downtown areas.
When it comes to finding 55+ communities in Phoenix, there’s no shortage of master-planned neighborhoods. These communities are designed with plenty of open space, nearby healthcare facilities, and resources such as helpful staff and amenities. One unique feature to beat the summer heat in many of Phoenix’s active adult communities is the addition of Olympic pools onsite. Swimming is an excellent low-impact spot for reducing joint inflammation while strengthening flexibility and endurance.
Of course, if golf is more your style, you’ll want to tour Phoenix’s best golfing retirement communities. There are a variety of country clubs and golf clubs to join, the majority of which are designed to be leisurely as well as active. Many even feature onsite spas and massage services to relax after a long day on the green.
Recommended 55+ Communities
Ahwatukee Retirement Village
Low $300s – High $400s
The 55+ community Ahwatukee Retirement Village is part of the master-planned community Ahwatukee Foothills. You’ll find plenty of activities to meet your interests here. Exercise is an important part of staying healthy, and Ahwatukee Retirement Village makes it easy with options like yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, and water aerobics. You can also indulge your love for arts and crafts by joining one of the community’s hobby groups.
Ahwatukee Retirement Village has more than 1,600 homes, a mix of attached properties and single-family homes. The community offers the convenience of single-story living, making the floor plan easy to navigate. Though just one floor, the homes offer plenty of living space. Floor plans range from 1,000 to 2,200 square feet. The community is ideal for anyone who is home shopping on a budget.
Tucson, AZ
If the city life isn’t quite your idea of a peaceful retirement, consider Tucson over Phoenix. You’ll still enjoy the same warm weather, although Tucson is a bit cooler than Phoenix on average due to the higher elevation. Tucson is also a more leisurely city, being home to many scenic retirement communities. The area is framed by mountains and desert majesty, giving way to fresh air and lower pollution.
A laidback community can be a great match for 55+ residents managing arthritis. Tucson offers a variety of parks and low-impact trails, as well as local shops, boutiques, and antique stores. The vibe is much more relaxed and the atmosphere is welcoming. There are plenty of activities and events to enjoy, including the annual Tucson Jazz Fest.
Further, residents can enjoy the same accessibility options as Phoenix alongside great healthcare facilities. Tucson truly blends the best of country living without sacrificing any modern amenities. Did we mention the spas in Tucson are out-of-this-world? Book a massage after a tour of Tucson’s best retirement communities!
Recommended 55+ Communities
SaddleBrooke
Low $300s – Mid $1Ms
If you’re looking to settle down in a 55+ community, SaddleBrooke has a plethora of home types and sizes for nearly any budget. This community has more than 5,000 homes, both attached and single-family.
SaddleBrooke is located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, offering residents scenic views. In addition to a gorgeous location, the community also offers plenty of amenities. You can enjoy access to two different golf courses, an outdoor pool, and plenty of trails for walking and biking. You can also enjoy a variety of live shows at the DesertView Performing Arts Center.
La Cholla Hills
Mid $200s – Low $400s
La Cholla Hills is a smaller 55+ community in Tucson. It has just under 400 single-family and attached homes built during the 1980s. If you’re looking to downsize, there are homes starting at about 700 square feet.
The community is anchored by a clubhouse, which brings residents together for clubs and activities. If you decide to make La Cholla Hills your home, you’ll also have access to amenities like outdoor pools and sports courts.
5. Las Vegas, NV
There’s a reason why more and more retirees are saying “viva Las Vegas!” Vegas is so much more than slot machines and shows. Sin City is a retirement paradise complete with pools, palm trees, and resort-style amenities. Las Vegas is home to some of the best 55+ communities in the U.S. The city’s luxurious reputation is evident in the upscale features of each community. This is especially appealing for new residents managing arthritis since you can enjoy wellness services onsite or nearby. Many 55+ communities in Vegas come complete with spas, yoga rooms, and even adjacent medical facilities. It’s worth noting that the healthcare facilities nearest to Vegas’ premiere retirement communities are among the best in the city.
The weather in Vegas stays consistently warm year-round, with mild winters rarely dipping below 60 degrees. The arid desert means less moisture in the air. Not only is reduced humidity great for maintaining your property, but less of a wind chill means less joint pain overall. Unlike nearby California, Nevada is less prone to weather fluctuations and receives less rain overall.
Maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle is easy in this neon city. Just outside the glitz and glam, residents will find an array of hiking trails. Red Rock Canyon National Park is a popular camping spot. The park is great for birding and other leisure activities as well, giving residents the opportunity to get outside and stay fit without overdoing it. If the desert heat is a bit too much, there are plenty of indoor fitness centers throughout Vegas. Many of these state-of-the-art fitness centers can be found within Vegas’ best 55+ communities.
Don’t forget about Vegas’ amazing shopping and entertainment. With so many things to do, accessibility may be a top-of-mind concern for prospective new residents. We’re happy to note that Vegas is very mobility-friendly, with accessible venues and great public transportation for getting around Sin City.
Recommended 55+ Communities
Sun City Summerlin
Low $300s – High $1Ms
Developer Del Webb is the mastermind behind the Sun City Summerlin 55+ community in Las Vegas. This master-planned community is ideal for the active adult lifestyle. It has more than 7,000 homes, both attached and single-family.
Sun City Summerlin is designed for convenience. Residents are conveniently located near all that Las Vegas has to offer, and the community has an impressive array of amenities at both a clubhouse and a community center.
Siena
Mid $400s – Mid $1Ms
Siena is a gated, 55+ community in Las Vegas that features 2,000 beautiful attached and single-family homes. The community is situated around an 18-hole golf course, offering great views and easy access for golf enthusiasts. The community also has its own fitness center and a large community center.
Homebuyers will find a pretty large range of home styles and prices in the Siena community. It offers 14 single-family floor plans and four attached villa styles.
Los Prados
Low $300s – Mid $700s
Los Prados, a gated 55+ community, is located around an 18-hole golf course. In addition to golf, residents can swim in the community’s outdoor pools, enjoy a friendly tennis match, and soak up the scenery on plenty of walking and biking trails. Los Prados also has its own clubhouse with plenty of space to socialize, its own restaurant, and a library.
Los Prados has about 1,300 homes ranging from 1,083 to 3,300 square feet. You have your choice of attached or single-family properties.
Starting Your Retirement Journey
Retirement is all about leading a stress-free lifestyle and prioritizing your health and wellness. Living with arthritis doesn’t have to be limiting. The right community can even make managing the pain and discomfort an easier burden. With key factors like warm, sunny weather, convenient public transportation, and accessible common areas guiding your retirement decision, there’s never been a better time to tour the best 55+ communities in the U.S. and find your dream home. Connect with our retirement realty team to find homes in your top states. Living your best life has never been closer!
