Retirement community

Retirement communities in the United States offer a wide range of options for older adults, catering to various needs, lifestyles, and budgets. They generally aim to provide a comfortable, low-maintenance, and socially engaging environment.

Types of retirement communities

Independent Living Communities:

• Who it's for: Active, healthy seniors (often 60+) who can live on their own but desire a maintenance-free lifestyle and social opportunities.
• Features: Private residences (apartments, condos, cottages), communal dining, housekeeping, transportation, and a wide array of social activities, fitness centers, pools, and recreational spaces. These communities often feel like luxury hotels.
• Care Level: Limited to no on-site medical care, though some may have a nurse a few days a week for consultations or screenings. 24/7 security is typical for emergencies.
• Cost: Average monthly costs can range from $1,500 to $4,000, varying significantly by location and amenities.

55+ Active Adult Communities:

• Who it's for: Individuals aged 55 and older seeking an active and socially engaging lifestyle without the responsibilities of extensive home maintenance.
• Features: Similar to typical residential neighborhoods but with an age restriction. Residents often own or rent homes (single-family, townhomes, condos) and pay HOA or monthly fees that typically cover exterior maintenance. Amenities often include clubhouses, fitness centers, golf courses, tennis courts, walking trails, and social clubs.
• Care Level: Generally do not offer meals, housekeeping, or on-site care services.12 They focus on providing a community for independent living.
• Cost: Varies widely depending on the type of housing (rental vs. ownership), location, and amenities.

Assisted Living Communities:

• Who it's for: Seniors who need some daily support with "activities of daily living" (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and medication management, but do not require complex medical care.
• Features: Private or semi-private apartments, three meals a day, 24-hour on-site caregivers, transportation, housekeeping, laundry, and a variety of social activities and wellness programs.
• Care Level: Provides personalized assistance with ADLs and medication management. Nurses are typically on staff.
• Cost: Average monthly costs range from $3,500 to $10,000, depending on location and the level of care needed.

Influence on the Humankind Land Trust

The idea of taking care of residents young and old, healthy and sick is a key tenet of the Humankind Land Trust in its expansion.

In the beginning, however, there will be no services, other than to house its residents. When the trust approaches the size of 2,000 housing units, more details on assistive services will be defined. The most important aspect of providing services is to ensure that service providers have the option to also be sustainably housed within the trust.