Aging in Place vs. Adult Living Communities: Which Choice Fits Your Future

Most adults over 55 - about 77% - want to stay in their homes as they grow older rather than move to adult community living. This choice isn't always simple. You need to understand what aging in place means and learn about adult living communities.

Those who age in place enjoy their familiar surroundings and community connections that are decades old. They can keep their independence and daily routines. Adult living communities like Plantation Oaks of Ormond Beach offer their own benefits. These communities give residents low-maintenance living, host social activities, and include built-in safety features that many older adults find attractive. Each option has unique advantages to think about, especially when you have costs, lifestyle priorities, and long-term care needs in mind.

These two paths each offer different benefits. Let's look at both options to help you make the right choice that best arranges with your future plans and personal needs.

What is Aging in Place vs Adult Living Communities

The CDC defines aging in place as knowing how to live safely and independently in your home, whatever your age or ability level. This choice lets older adults stay in control of their daily environment and familiar routines.

Understanding Aging in Place

We identified three main scenarios for aging in place. First, seniors with no urgent needs who prefer their current home. Second, those with progressive conditions that need specific modifications. Third, people who need immediate changes because of sudden health changes. This option resonates with many seniors - 90% of adults over 65 want to stay in their current residence.

Types of Adult Living Communities

Adult living communities are a great way to get different levels of support and care. Independent living communities serve self-sufficient seniors who want an active lifestyle. Assisted living helps with daily activities, especially medication management and personal care. Memory care communities serve adults with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia and offer specialized support in a secure environment.

Key Differences at a Glance

The main difference between these options is in their approach to care and lifestyle. Adult living communities like Plantation Oaks Of Ormond Beach offer maintenance-free living with built-in amenities, unlike aging-in place. Studies show that all but one of ten American homes lack "aging ready" features such as step-free entryways and first-floor bathrooms.

Aging in Place: The Pros

Research shows that seniors benefit greatly from staying in familiar surroundings. A recent AARP survey revealed that 76% of adults aged 50 and older want to stay in their current homes as they age.

Comfort and familiarity

Your home is more than just a physical space - it holds cherished memories and sentimental value. In fact, familiar surroundings help you keep daily routines that bring comfort and emotional well-being.

Independence and autonomy

First and foremost, aging in place lets you retain control over your life decisions. Studies show that keeping your independence substantially boosts mental health and overall well-being. On top of that, you can handle important tasks like shopping and personal care on your own.

Cost savings

Aging in place offers major financial benefits to many seniors. Statistics show that almost 80% of individuals aged 65 and above fully own their homes. With no monthly mortgage payments, you can put your money toward needed home modifications and tailored care services.

Stronger community ties

Living in your long-time community helps you:

• Keep long-term friendships and neighborhood connections

• Take part in local social activities regularly

• Use familiar services and support networks

• Join community outreach programs

  
  

Studies show that these community bonds help reduce the risk of conditions like dementia. Research also shows that being happy with your social networks directly relates to less loneliness.

Aging in Place: The Cons

Staying home sounds great, but 40% of adults over 65 deal with at least one disability that makes aging at home tough. These challenges show up slowly and affect their independent living.

Home maintenance

Age makes it harder to keep up with household tasks. Seniors spend more than an hour each day on home maintenance. Simple chores like hoovering, changing bed linens, and yard work become a real physical challenge. Many older adults find it hard to handle work like HVAC maintenance, pest control, and everyday repairs.

Accessibility challenges

Right now, just 3.5% of U.S. homes have simple accessibility features like zero-step entrances and wide doorways. So 4.2 million households have trouble getting into their homes, while 3.3 million struggle to use their bathrooms. Making these changes can get pricey, especially for seniors with tight budgets.

Isolation and loneliness

Social isolation is a serious health risk, and one in three older adults feel lonely in some areas. Studies show that being isolated for long periods can affect health just like smoking 15 cigarettes every day. Isolated seniors also face higher risks of:

• Cognitive decline and dementia

• Heart disease and stroke

• Depression and anxiety

• Premature mortality

  
  

Safety concerns

Falls are the biggest safety threat, with 2.9 million seniors needing hospital treatment each year for home injuries. Home modifications help, but many seniors struggle to reach emergency services or handle utility outages. These safety risks get worse for seniors living alone, especially when they have limited community support.

 Adult Living Communities: The Pros

Adult living communities provide solutions to challenges that seniors face as they age in their homes. Plantation Oaks of Ormond Beach shows how these communities boost quality of life through amenities and services.

Maintenance-free living

Life in an adult living community removes the hassle of home maintenance tasks. The core team takes care of everything from lawn care to appliance repairs. This lets you spend time on activities you love. Research shows seniors living independently spend 2.5 hours each day doing household chores.

Social engagement

Adult communities promote active social lives through hosted activities and common areas. Studies show residents experience a 40% reduction in feelings of isolation compared to those aging at home. Plantation Oaks lets you participate in:

• Group fitness classes and wellness programs

• Cultural events and educational workshops

• Community gatherings and social clubs

  
  

Safety and security

Resident safety comes first with features like 24-hour security staff, emergency response systems, and well-lit walkways. Statistics reveal seniors in adult living communities have 65% fewer falls than those aging at home.

Convenience and amenities

Adult living communities make daily life easier by offering essential services in one location. Plantation Oaks comes with fitness centers, dining options, and transportation services. Research shows 85% of residents have better access to healthcare services after moving to these communities. On top of that, scheduled transportation services remove worries about driving or keeping a vehicle.

Adult Living Communities: The Cons

Life in an adult living community comes with several challenges that seniors need to think over carefully. Research shows that older adults go through major emotional and practical adjustments during their transition.

Downsizing

Downsizing creates physical and emotional strain in equal measure. Seniors tackle the overwhelming task of sorting through decades worth of possessions. This goes beyond simple decluttering and forces tough choices about treasured belongings. Research highlights how older adults struggle with:

• Sorting through lifetime collections

• Managing their move's physical demands

• Choosing truly meaningful items

• Living in smaller spaces

  
  

Loss of independence

Community settings change a person's autonomy. Research reveals that residents have less control over their daily routines. Beyond scheduled activities, many communities enforce rules that can feel limiting, and some facilities just need $800 monthly in HOA fees. Adapting to community guidelines takes time, especially when you have enjoyed complete independence before.

Emotional adjustment

Life in a community setting stirs up complex emotions. Seniors often feel displaced and disconnected from their familiar social circles. The move from familiar surroundings can increase feelings of vulnerability and anxiety. Studies show that lack of emotional support during transitions raises depression and isolation risks. All the same, professional guidance and family support help smooth out these adjustment hurdles.

Making the Decision

The choice between aging in place and adult living communities depends on several key factors. Studies reveal that 70% of individuals over 65 will need some form of long-term care.

Assess individual needs

A full picture helps determine the most suitable living arrangement. Physical capabilities, mental health, and social requirements are the foundations of this review. Start by creating a detailed list of daily activities you need help with. This list identifies gaps in your current support systems.

Review lifestyle

Your priorities are vital in determining the right choice. Research shows that active seniors thrive in communities that host activities and wellness programs. Key factors include:

• Social involvement opportunities

• Access to healthcare services

• Transportation needs

• Dietary requirements

  
  

Research options

We reviewed different senior living options to help you make an informed decision. Standard retirement communities serve active adults while continuing care retirement communities provide various levels of support. The average entry fee for continuing care communities is $402,000.

Plantation Oaks Of Ormond Beach

Plantation Oaks ended up as an attractive option for active adult living. This 55+ community spans 233 acres and features 427 homesites. The community includes:

• An Olympic-size pool with beach entry

• Two saltwater-heated spas

• Tennis and pickleball courts with LED lighting

• A 10,300-square-foot clubhouse

• Manned, gated entrance

  
  

Located just 7 miles from the beach, the community blends convenience with resort-style living. Homes begin in the mid-$200,000s and come with finished two-car garages and covered front porches.

Conclusion

Making a choice between aging in place and adult living communities ranks among the most important life decisions that shape your future well-being. This isn't just a simple yes-or-no choice - you can call it a personal experience shaped by your unique situation, health requirements, and lifestyle priorities.

Your health condition, money situation, and social requirements should point you toward the right decision. Adult living communities like Plantation Oaks are a great way to get maintenance-free and active lifestyle. Seniors love the vibrant social activities these places provide. These communities solve common aging-in-place challenges like home upkeep, feeling isolated, and accessibility issues.

Aging in place gives you familiar surroundings and community connections you've built over time. However, this path needs careful planning and possible home modifications. Your own home's comfort comes with responsibilities that could become harder to handle as years pass.

The path you pick needs proper preparation and a full picture of your needs to succeed. Plantation Oaks stands out as an excellent choice if you want an active adult lifestyle. You should schedule a tour at Plantation Oaks to see firsthand what resort-style active living can offer. Your final choice should line up with your vision of meeting a secure and comfortable retirement.