Active Adult vs Independent Living

Active adult is the new norm in retirement living

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Active adult communities (also called a variety of other names, such as adult lifestyle communities and others) are a blossoming trend in housing. These are ideal for those who have emptied the nest and are looking to downsize or reinvest the equity in their family home.  These are not retirement communities in any traditional sense, and communities have no true age restriction; people may move in in their late 40s, for example. Active adult might also be known as resort communities, 55 plus, bungalow retirement communities and many other names. Homes can be single-family dwellings, /mobile or manufactured homes, cluster housing, condo style housing or special subdivisions. Occupants lease or purchase the residence and enjoy an independent lifestyle with their neighbors. These communities have features and activities that older adults find fulfilling and enjoyable. From indoor swimming pools and lush golf courses to onsite shopping and transportation, active adult communities suit the needs of healthy and active seniors.

Independent living facilities, on another hand, are housing units designed specifically for seniors, often with an age limit around 65. Residents of independent living facilities care for themselves and live independently in a secure environment of their peers. These residents usually do not require assistance with day-to-day activities, but may use services of a care provider as required.

The key difference between independent living and other housing options is the degree of overall assistance in daily living activities. While seniors in independent living homes take care of the majority of their own needs, they may be offered meals, laundry services, linen delivery and planned activities. However, if one requires round-the-clock help with eating, dressing, and using the toilet, or requires regular medical assistance, other housing options such as assisted living or nursing homes may be a better option. Active adult living is limited in the type of care options available to seniors and the focus of housing is on seniors who are, as implied by the name, very active.

Independent living offers a good deal of comfort, security and safety but medical care is limited. Meals, housekeeping, transportation, and planned social activities are offered to seniors. There are many types of independent living facilities, from apartment complexes to separate houses. Continuing care retirement facilities provide independent living as well as other types of senior housing with more services at the same facility.

With the aging of the baby boomer generation, both active adult and independent living options are getting equally popular. Many independent adults who do not need care opt for active adult living while seniors who may need some care services can choose from the wide range of homes that offer independent living.

Independent living communities:

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Sawmill Flats  

12 Jack Crescent, Arnprior, Ontario, K7S 3Y7

Brand new luxury riverfront adult lifestyle rentals in Arnprior. A community designed with modern comfort and convenience in mind, including riverside amenities building and clubhouse. Come join the community.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

Edgewood Suites  

270 Hagan Street East, Dundalk, Ontario, N0C 1B0

Welcome to Edgewood Suites in Dundalk Ontario. This brand new community featuring quality rental units, superior amenities and small town charm is open now and available for immediate occupancy.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

Two Neptune Drive - Reuben Cipin Healthy Living Community  

2 Neptune Drive, Toronto, Ontario, M6A3E6

2 Neptune Dr. is a unique residential community designed for active adults 65+ who enjoy being part of a large, close-knit community and taking part in various fitness and social programs. Move-in incentives available!

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

The Crossing  

66 Elizabeth Avenue, Garlands Crossing, Nova Scotia, B0N2T0

The Crossing is a vibrant active living community in the beautiful Annapolis Valley, an award-winning wine region. Residents will enjoy nearby walking trails, community gardens, golf, skiing & casual or fine dining.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

The Meadows of Aurora  

440 William Graham Drive, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 1X5

The Meadows of Aurora is a Christian Seniors Lifestyle Community that promotes the wellbeing of individuals 65+. Residents experience nature’s green spaces, memorable dining experiences and great times with friends.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

WaterView Estates by Estates of Niagara  

518 Queenston St, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R 7K6

WaterView Estates & Wellness Suites, offers a luxurious, vibrant Active Living community along the Welland Canal, steps from walk/bike trails, world class amenities and living options designed to create your best life!

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

St. Elizabeth Village  

1 Yates Gate, Hamilton, Ontario, L9B 1T8

St. Elizabeth Village is a place where community comes first. The Village is set on an impressive 114-acre natural oasis of parks and ponds. Enjoy a non-stop slate of social activities in a vibrant, active lifestyle.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

Stoneridge Estates by Estates of Niagara  

2626 Mewburn Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2J 0G4

Stoneridge Estates presents an upscale boutique property setting a new standard for a 55+ Active Lifestyle Community. Nestled in Niagara's Wine region, offering engaging amenities. Sure to make every day extraordinary!

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

Royal Heights Inc.  

30 Adelaide Avenue East, Oshawa, Ontario, L1G 0B8

Royal Heights is designed with your active & independent lifestyle in mind. Luxury apartments feature en-suite laundry, stainless steel appliances & balconies. On site Fitness room, salt water pool, movie theatre & more!

Lifestyle Options: Active Living

Mahogany Platinum  

#100 - 2180 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford, British Columbia, V2S 0H4

A spectacular new residential tower in Abbotsford, Mahogany Platinum combines convenience, livability and luxury for seniors looking for an independent lifestyle community. Only a few suites left.

Lifestyle Options: Active Living



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