For some seniors, living in a 55+ community is an attractive choice if they want to live in a relatively quiet, age-restricted area and have access to amenities that cater to their stage in life. Everyone doesn't qualify to live in these communities, as they have their own rules so they can remain senior-specific. It is important to know the qualifications before you think about the housing.
01
Age
- The most basic of requirements for residency in a 55+ community is, you guessed it, age. 1 occupant must be 55 years or older and the community is restricted under the HOPA (Housing for Older Persons Act). This law enables housing communities to limit occupancy to seniors without being in violation of the Fair Housing Act, which, among other things, makes age-based housing discrimination illegal. Though the head of household must be 55 or older, in some communities a younger spouse or partner is allowed to reside there as long as one qualifying resident meets the age requirement.
02
Proportion of Younger Residents
- In addition to the age cap, many 55+ developments also limit the proportion of younger residents. Federal law mandates that at least 80 percent of occupied units in a 55+ community have at least one resident who is 55 or older. The remaining 20 percent are perhaps a bit more lenient, though policies differ from community to community. In some communities 80% is the mimimum and in others 100% (all senors) are insisted on being sold.
03
Household Composition
- The household composition is also a factor that can entail a decrease in the probability of being eligible. Some 55+ communities limit the number of household members or prevent families with young children from living in them at all. For instance, a couple who has a grandchild under 18 may be banned from living in some communities unless they are grandfathered in.
04
Financial Status
- The financial status is also a criterion. Not all 55+ communities have income requirements but many are considered active adult communities that charge homeowners' association fees, which often include access to things like a golf course, gym or social club. Buyers or renters must be prepared to bear these extra costs. In some cases, communities will ask to see proof of income or run a credit check, particularly in rental-based senior living communities.
05
Lifestyle Factor
- Lastly, the lifestyle factor is something that prospective residents need to look into. A lot of 55+ communities are lifestyle focused, with social gatherings, hobbies, and volunteer opportunities. Although it's not a formal “qualification,” people who like their lives quiet and low-maintenance may be very happy in these communities — while the people who want to live in a more mixed-age environment might feel frustrated by the restrictions.
Conclusion
An overview of the main criteria for 55+ communities would generally involve: At least one resident is age 55+, rules about who can live with the resident(s), ability to pay for the fees, and following by the rules of the community. Before you decide, it's probably a good idea to read the community's governing documents, talk to current residents and meet with a real estate agent who specializes in senior housing.
Methods
Details
Age
Though the head of household must be 55 or older, in some communities a younger spouse or partner is allowed to reside there as long as one qualifying resident meets the age requirement.
Proportion of Younger Residents
Federal law mandates that at least 80 percent of occupied units in a 55+ community have at least one resident who is 55 or older.
Household Composition
For instance, a couple who has a grandchild under 18 may be banned from living in some communities unless they are grandfathered in.
Financial Status
Not all 55+ communities have income requirements but many are considered active adult communities that charge homeowners' association fees, which often include access to things like a golf course, gym or social club.
Lifestyle Factor
Although it's not a formal “qualification,” people who like their lives quiet and low-maintenance may be very happy in these communities.
Conclusion
At least one resident is age 55+, rules about who can live with the resident(s), ability to pay for the fees, and following by the rules of the community.
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