55 Communities Baby Boomer – Fighting the Holliday Blues

Holiday Blues Receipe – For The Over 50 Active Adult

So, you are a baby boomer active adult living  in one of America’s posh over 55 communities with all the ammenities one could only dream about and you’ve got the “blues”.   Well here is a receipe for relief:

1.  Accept all Invitations – play a round of golf with a buddy or two at one of the outstanding Active Adult Retirement golf courses.  Take a walk around and mingle with fellow retirement community neighbors; socialize at all costs.  55+ active adults are suppose to be “active” not sitting around alone watching tv.  If you are living in one of those retirement gated communites – bust out and go drinking, eating and enjoy what the good life is all about. 
   
2.  Help Others- it always feels good to help another.  Go out of your way to lend a helping hand to someone who needs it.  Your own retirement community is filled with people needing your love and attention.  To find out about local opportunities, contact area schools, churches and charitable organizations. Seek out and you shall receive big time! 

3.  Eat Healthy and Often:  put the diet asside and enjoy gourmet dining with great conversation while relaxing with friends.  A local 55+ community resort could be your meal ticket.

4.  Travel to Your Favorite Resort – if you got go, then go – what are you waiting for.  Arizona is loaded with cheapo or mucho expensivo gettaways.  Either one, will do you.  This is not the time to count pennies – throw some money around, it will make you feel good.

5.  Get Plenty of Rest:  you will need it to overcome the “Holiday Blues” and keep you in the “Holiday Spirit”.  Just try not to sleep alone.

Do the above and feel the results – happiness or depression, which one sounds good to you?

Baby Boomer or Bust

Many of you over 55 living in a beautiful Active Adult Living New Home are concerned about availability of your retirement funds and sufficient medical care to meet your needs.  As Baby Boomers cycle into Social Security and Medicare, the question arises – “Will my social security and medicare benefits be available to provide the active adult community  lifestyle I envisioned?”.  After all, we are still active adults and living life to the fullest -  we expect to receive what we were promised and what we planned for.

Governments are worried. Physicians are scarce. Retirement funds are in jeopardy. Will older adults and the up-and-coming Baby Boomers—a combined age group described as a tsunami—spell catastrophe? Or, is the large number of older and aging adults an untapped resource that will add value to the world?

Gain the broad perspective of older adults in “Active Aging Industry Outlook 2010,” the new research report prepared by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA). The active-aging industry provides facilities and programs that are part of a prevention/wellness model focused on quality of life for people who are 50 years and older. On the eve of the first Baby Boomers turning 65 year old, ICAA searched the analysis and research results of many organizations and compiled them into a single source of credible information.

Among the seven key drivers identified in the report are key concepts for the future:

1. An aging population is a large, growing market;
2. Functional ability among “older adults” is so diverse it requires a diverse range of services; and
3. The 50+ community population envisions their future lifestyle as active and involved.

The majority of older adults, according to the findings in the report, are happier, healthier and living longer than any other generation. While the prevalence of chronic health conditions is an important issue, so is the ability of older adults to contribute to society and change the way they age. Their interest in health and lifestyle creates ample opportunity for businesses and for service providers to tap into the older adult market by understanding their needs and wants today—and in the future.

The explosion in up-scale  55 communities and affiliated businesses are examples of new home developers meeting the requirements  of a Baby Boomer active adult community lifestyle

It is time to witness how the Boomers and their parents—together the largest, richest and fastest-growing segment of the overall population—are changing the way society responds to their expectations, needs, desires and dreams.”

Is Community Lifestyle in the Carolinas your Best Place?

I’m often asked which cities and towns in North Carolina and South Carolina are more affordable than others, and if North Carolina is more affordable than South Carolina, and vice versa.

First of all, look for communities that are less like a “resort” and more like a “community”. Remember, all those amenities cost money and someone has to pay for them making them less affordable in the long run.

Many communities in North Carolina and South Carolina have golf memberships, tennis memberships, social memberships, and even equestrian memberships. There are fees associated with all of them, and you don’t want to find out how much they are, after you settle into what you thought was your Best Place.

There can be fees for using the health club, pool, boat docks, and community room for social events. Recently, I was researching several communities in

North Carolina and I came across a golf community that had an initiation fee of $100,000! Plus yearly dues of $7,000, and a dining minimum of $1400 per year. I don’t know about you, but that’s one heck of a chunk of change

It doesn’t make much sense to choose a golf community, if you then can’t afford the membership and fees associated with it. Most communities have either a

Property Owners Association or a Homeowners Association, and each have fees associated with them.  If you own a townhouse or condominium, the fees are usually higher.

Many retirees today are seeking out retirement communities in North Carolina and South Carolina based on a choice of lifestyle and their interests, and they need to find out before hand if the fees associated with those activities will make it impossible to pursue them.

One way to find an affordable lifestyle in North Carolina and South Carolina is to look at some of the many small charming towns. They’re a good bet whether you’re retiring or relocating to the Carolinas.

I like to find small towns with active communities, just outside the larger metropolitan areas, or small towns within close proximity to other small towns,or small towns with colleges in them. These situations give you the advantage of small town living, but with big town services.

When I say small towns, I’m talking about towns of approximately 10-30,000 people.  Towns like Banner Elk, Blowing Rock and Boone in North Carolina are great examples of living in a “cluster” of smaller towns that have a lot to offer.

The western part of North Carolina also has some of the best places to live in the Carolina’s, like Cashiers, Fontana Village, Bryson City and Waynesville.

For coastal living, one of my very favorites is New Bern. It’s one of the best places I’ve been to in North Carolina. It’s a quaint small town with a historic housing stock and beautiful open spaces. The Neuse and Trent Rivers come together in the middle of Town. It’s gorgeous!

Although it’s still considered a small town, you won’t lack for shopping, culture and great restaurants. The ocean is only 40 minutes away and the Pamlico

Sound is right next door. And the people are some of the nicest I’ve ever met!

In South Carolina, you’ll find beautiful, quaint, small town living in places like Anderson, Beaufort, Summerville, and Georgetown.

Today, there are an increasing number of people interested in living just outside small downtowns where they can walk to shopping, restaurants, and activities.  Especially with the price of gas! Small towns in North Carolina and South Carolina have become very popular for relocating empty-nesters, as well as boomer retirees.

When I say small towns, I’m talking about towns of approximately 10-30,000 people.  Towns like Banner Elk, Blowing Rock and Boone in North Carolina are great examples of living in a “cluster” of smaller towns that have a lot to offer. 

The western part of North Carolina also has some of the best places to live in the Carolina’s, like Cashiers, Fontana Village, Bryson City and Waynesville. 

For coastal living, one of my very favorites is New Bern. It’s one of the best places I’ve been to in North Carolina. It’s a quaint small town with a historic housing stock and beautiful open spaces. The Neuse and Trent Rivers come together in the middle of Town. It’s gorgeous!

 Although it’s still considered a small town, you won’t lack for shopping, culture and great restaurants. The ocean is only 40 minutes away and the Pamlico

Sound is right next door. And the people are some of the nicest I’ve ever met!

In South Carolina, you’ll find beautiful, quaint, small town living in places like Anderson, Beaufort, Summerville, and Georgetown. 

Today, there are an increasing number of people interested in living just outside small downtowns where they can walk to shopping, restaurants, and activities.  Especially with the price of gas! Small towns in North Carolina and South Carolina have become very popular for relocating empty-nesters, as well as boomer retirees

There’s usually a greater sense of “community” in these smaller towns, and opportunities to get involved as a volunteer or civic leader. 

Other advantages includeless traffic, more affordable housing and usually lower taxes. You might also find some great old houses just waiting for you to restore them. 

Whether you’re relocating to the Carolina’s or looking for an active adult retirement community, there’s a small town that could be just right for you. 

But wait, I must also tell you of a possible downside. In these small towns, you won’t find as much diversity in the people and you might be considered an “outsider” at first, and you may find that all the cultural events and services you want may not be readily available. 

Either way, if you pick a small town in North Carolina or South Carolina that’s a short ride from one of its urban areas, you’ll be assured of a variety of services, good medical care and plenty of activities to keep you busy. 

There is also the added benefit if you find a community with a college or branch of a major university, where you can experience plently of intellectual stimulation and diversity.

All and all, if you use my “cluster” concept of relocating or retiring around other small towns, the drawbacks will be far outweighed by the slower pace, quality of lifestyle and lower cost of living.

Two of my favorite small Best Places in the Carolinas are Lenoir, North Carolina which was rencently voted a “Hot Bargain” in National Geographic Adventure Magazine, and Aiken, South Carolina, which is located in the middle of beautiful horse country just northeast of Augusta, GA.

 

 

 

The Best Retirement States For Senior Citizens

The “baby boomer” generation has now arrived at retirement age and are more than likely looking at the best retirement states in which to experience their golden years. There’s specific criteria they need to be thinking about. They will want to take a look at what every different state has to offer retired people, the retirement communities in the state as well as the citizens and geography. Some other critical points to check out should be retirement income, the local, state and federal sales taxes and property or home taxes, home prices and last, but certainly not the least, is the climate.

 

Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Utah, Tennessee, North Carolina and Arizona are some of the top picks for the best retirement states. It is mainly because they are able to provide the best value for retirees, a lot more leisure activities, moderate climates, and may also be known for their natural beauty, people and intriguing geographical sights.

 

When searching for nationwide retirement solutions it can be essential to take into consideration what exactly your monthly cash flow or funds is going to be. Most retirees live on a set income. Look for states that have lower living costs reports with little or no sales taxes. These lower taxes permit those with a fixed income afford the day to day costs of food and other daily needs.

 

Lower sales taxes could possibly indicate higher income or property tax. Therefore it is definitely a good idea to evaluate home ownership to residing in a retirement community or leasing. Leasing in a retirement neighborhood is able to offer their residents the security and safety of residing in a gated area. Renting additionally offers residents escape from needing to handle the maintenance of the residence and the prospect of living in a more gracious way of life.

 

Living in or near a college town might be amongst the best in nationwide retirement solutions. College towns are alluring for the reason that they normally offer you good quality health care, reasonably priced living alternatives as well as free or substantially cheaper college courses for seniors. They also provide a rich cultural and artistic setting in which to reside. You’ll find several small college towns that offer many of the above conveniences without having all of the traffic.

 

In making the report on the best retirement states they should offer good retirement residential areas. These communities normally have many services for active adults over 55 as well as for those that may require assisted living rentals. They commonly feature clubhouses, swimming pools, golf courses, retail shops and convenient medical clinics. They typically may have common areas for socializing. For those searching for a golf retirement community Arizona, Florida and the Carolina area sound like the most desired.

What Type of Community is Your Best Place?

Often confused with a housing development or neighborhood, a retirement community is not about the community being “gated” as much as it is about the fact that they are “planned.”

With or without a gate or guard house, people feel safer living in a community with like minded people with similar interests and communities are becoming very popular especially with people in retirement.

Most all communities are deeded real estate. And today, there are many different types and styles of “communities” which have various levels of amenities.  It is important as you explore in search of finding your Best Place to live, you know and understand all the choices that are available.

An “Active Adult Community“ is an age-restricted community requiring at least one household resident is age 55. No one under age 19 may be a permanent resident. Residents usually engage in community activities and are retired, employed in some manner or have their own business.

Many Adult Communities maintain the property for the residents. I like to call them “Active Lifestyle Communitiesbecause, for the most part, the focus today seems to be more on lifestyle and amenities, rather than age.”

Some communities are centered on boating, golf, horses, fitness or some other outdoor activity. They have a certain “style” to them.

“Private Residence Clubs“ is deeded real estate ownership (fractional ownership) without the added responsibility of owning. The price varies with residence and number of weeks in your plan.

With “Destination Clubs“ you don’t own any of the real estate and for only a membership fee and yearly dues, provide access to houses throughout the world. Both Private Residence and Destination Clubs provide high-end housing at resort destinations with five-star amenities.

The explosive “New Urbanism“ communities tightly cluster a wide variety of home types, foster interaction; residents are diverse from the retired to young families; feature walkable Main Street shopping, restaurants and a mix of commercial development.

The New Urbanism community de-emphasizes the need for a car has undeveloped common “green space” and offers residents of different ages and economic backgrounds.

New Ruralism communities foster connection with nature, privacy, and community involvement only as desired.

The home sites are usually large and separated by nature preserves, natural features, and agricultural land.

New Ruralism communities are characterized by undisturbed open spaces shared by everyone.

A new type of community real estate is Co-housing. Co-housing is where people are committed to helping each other and becoming popular with the same generation that gave us the commune.

Residents of a Co-housing community own a townhome or condo and share a “common house”, participate in the design, operation and maintenance of the community.

The common facilities usually contain a kitchen, lounge, children’s room, recreational facilities, meditation room and workshops.

As you can see, there are many different types and styles of “communities”.

Whether you’re retired or relocating to what you want to be your Best Place to Live, communities offer a wide variety of lifestyles.

There’s no better way to find out more about the communities you are considering, than taking a trip to visit them. Many offer “discounted“ weekend packages.

However, before you spend all that time and money, make sure you read the fine print.  Also, many provide a video or DVD of the community, so you can get to know them without ever leaving home.

Visit www.PlacesOfValue.com for more information on the best places in North Carolina and South Carolina, relocation and/or retirement made easy.

Get Your FREE REPORT on “Affordable Best Places In The Carolinas”, and find your Best Place to Live in North Carolina or South Carolina. Visit:

http://www.placesofvalue.com/go/go.php?c=ncscad2

 

 

 

 

Retirement Homes

A retirement home is a multi-residence housing facility intended for senior citizens. The usual pattern is that each person or couple in the home has an apartment-style room or suite of rooms. Additional facilities are provided within the building. Often this includes facilities for meals, gathering, recreation, and some form of health or hospice care. The level of facilities varies enormously. A place in a retirement home can be paid for on a rental basis, like an apartment. A retirement home differs from a nursing home primarily in the level of medical care given. Retirement villages and retirement communities, unlike retirement homes, offer separate and autonomous homes for residents.
The earlier concept of old-age homes symbolised the last option for the needy and abandoned elderly. Contemporary retirement homes or resorts, on the contrary, are a pleasant concept that promises to make life after retirement a celebration. Retirement resorts — a premium housing facility for retirees — offer a multitude of facilities to the occupants and they no longer have to worry about their daily household needs and security. Rather, they can opt for an active lifestyle and utilise their time in recreational activities , social work and suitable companionship.
Amenities like round-the-clock security and medical assistance are commensurate with the need of old age and a modern lifestyle that many people have become accustomed to. And, for those looking for more, there are luxuries such as hobby clubs, activity rooms, swimming pool and health club. Another factor that pulls the elderly to these retirement homes is that they don’t have to bother with the day-to-day management of the property while they enjoy the community facilities available to them.
The focus is to make these retirement homes a place for leisure and enjoyment. In their twilight years and free from all family obligations, elderly citizens choose a lifestyle of their choice in these retirement homes. Unlike old-age homes which are generally the last option for needy and abandoned elderly people, senior citizens choose retirement homes out of their own will.
Retirement homes typically include enhanced features that can make living for the elderly far more secure and comfortable. Advanced medical facilities in and around the area, high-tech security systems, recreational choices especially designed keeping this clientele in mind and other superior facilities are a part of these communities. 
Main advantages of retirement homes are the elderly can spend time with others their age. This helps them bond better and make lasting friendships with people they can relate to. They are provided a comfortable and secure life even if they may be financially weak. Retirement homes have medical facilities for its residents as well. It helps in making medical aid available at short notice if anybody needs it.

Retirement Communities Catered for Seniors with Alzheimers

Retirement planning is an investment and should be done by everyone when they reach a particular stage in life. Most people take retirement as a curse, but with a wide choice of senior citizen apartments, this can be something to look forward to. As we grow older, our ability to function independently gradually decreases. In severe cases, a common form of dementia called Alzheimer’s can occur, which is an incurable, degenerative, and terminal disease. One of the biggest issues that arise when a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is how to care for their loved one, as the time and supervision can be overwhelming. With special retirement communities known as Alzheimer’s living and senior citizen apartments, specialized staff and housing offer a sensible solution.

Senior citizen apartments and Alzheimer’s living is a form of long-term care that promotes independence, individuality, privacy, and choice. It was initially developed to bridge the gap between seniors living at home and nursing homes. Senior citizen apartments and Alzheimer’s living is rapidly becoming a popular and growing option because it offers seniors seeking assistance while maintaining their independence.

Some of the best retirement communities offer the comfort of private, independent living with top of the line amenities, which allow retirees to live life to the fullest. Beautiful and well-appointed senior citizen apartments offer vacation like atmospheres that include fitness centers, housekeeping, fine dining, swimming pools and more. The fitness programs are customized to each senior citizen’s need to keep the body healthy and active while amenities in the library keep the mind alert. Residents should be active, healthy members of a retirement home community that supports their independence, character, and lifestyle.

With some of the best retirement communities out there, it has become possible to mix Alzheimer’s living with a great lifestyle. Modern communities and retirement homes are luxurious and are ready to support each retired person in any stage of their life. No matter if you are recently retired and still live an active and social lifestyle or need more attention to support your needs in Alzheimer’s living, there are senior citizen apartments and Alzheimer’s living to cater to you needs.

Mexico Retirement Communities – Land Purchase to Save Money

Have you visited a Mexico retirement community which you feel could be the place of your dreams? Maybe Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast, maybe Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula? If you have imagined your dream home, but know that it’s outside of your budget, one solution is to plan ahead, buy a plot of land and build that home exactly the way you like it.

 

While land in both of these locations is best bought of the beachfront (directly on the beachfront the demand is high, supply is limited, and so prices are quite high,) only a short drive away from the beach you can buy a decent sized lot for a reasonable price.

 

Puerto Vallarta land, for example, can be found for as little as $75,000 USD. Whether up on a hillside overlooking the bay, or in a newly developing community, lots for low prices can be found within walking distance to many services. In new areas, many new services may be on their way by the time retirement rolls around for you.

 

Cancun land in good locations is a little less common, but is nevertheless available for good prices. One example is newer developments just outside of town – towards the airport, or Isla Mujeres on the other side. Prices are reasonable, and again, while many new services are appearing in these areas, a short drive will bring you to the large malls of the hotel zone, and the convenient shopping of downtown.

 

In either area, a spacious home, well constructed with a custom design, can be built around the $100,000 mark. For around $200,000 USD (after some other little expenses) you can be ready for retirement in the house of your dreams.

 

If you are looking for a lower price range, other areas that are just beginning to grow as top tourist destinations offer even lower prices on good lots. Contact an experienced, qualified agent to help you find the area and the property where you can build the home you want for retirement.

 

TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

Mexican Retirement Communities; Yucatan’s Restored Colonial Cities

While retirement on the beachfront is an excellent choice, a growing number of Americans and Canadians are beginning to choose a Mexico retirement community in one of the charming colonial cities throughout Mexico. Among these, the Yucatan Peninsula offers two exciting choices – Merida real estate, which is already a favorite, and Campeche real estate, which is just starting to attract a larger group of retirees.

 

What is the advantage of retiring in place like Merida or Campeche? Of course, the romantic atmosphere of a classic colonial city, with wonderful architecture is one key reason. Both of these cities are investing heavily in the complete restoration of there historic city centers.

 

Most recently, a large federal and state investment was announced for Merida which already boasts a wonderful atmosphere in its city center. The plan includes:

 

12 million dollars
2 years of restoration
illumination of the colonial churches (increasing visual appeal)
increased museums, awareness and accessibility of these museams
ongoing beautification of houses and colonial buildings
tours through city
tourism-focused business, activities, transport
tourism development in the nearby towns of Progreso, Valladolid, and Izamal Tinum

 

Campeche has recently carried out a similar process, placing all wiring underground, and investing in painting and improving facades of all buildings in the colonial center.

 

Other than the pleasure of living a very charming atmosphere, these two cities also offer the following benefits:

 

low real estate prices (homes as low as $50,000 USD)
very low cost of living
colorful, vibrant culture – festivals, live traditional music, etc.
art galleries and shows
up-to-date hospitals (with very accessible prices)
easy access back home
close access to beachfront areas – 30 minutes

 

Consider a colonial community in Mexico for your retirement; enjoy a relaxing lifestyle in a charming city!

 

TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

 

 

Mexican Retirement Communities; Charming Inland Towns and Cities

While many Mexico retirement communities on the coast have become favorites over the past few favorite for Americans and Canadians, either retired or coming up to retirement, another possibility which has been somewhat less popular, but is, indeed, no less attractive, is the charming little towns and colonial cities of the countries interior.

 

In terms of charming little towns, one has already succeeded in gaining a reputation and strong following right up there with some of the most popular beachfront destinations; this is Lake Chapala. The two main towns on Lake Chapala, Chapala and Ajijic, along with numerous other villages such as Jocotepec, have cobblestone roads, quaint little Mexican style homes, and a lifestyle defined by the relaxation that has defined Mexican culture for centuries.

 

In addition to the quaint little homes, Lake Chapala real estate offers large, luxury homes, with beautiful views of the lake, modern condos with many conveniences, and just about anything between the three of these. Another key benefit; Guadalajara, Mexico’s second largest city, with all services, conveniences and some of the world’s best healthcare is less than an hour away – close enough for convenience, far enough to forget that it exists, when you don’t need it. Another example of a similar town, which has been far less discovered, is Valle de Bravo, only 2 hours from Mexico City, and 1 hour from Toluca, one of the cities showing the strongest growth of services in Latin America.

 

As for colonial cities, a few near the beachfront have already established themselves as good retirement choices; these include Mazatlan on the Pacific coast, and Merida on the Yucatan peninsula; Campeche, also on the Yucatan peninsula has just begun to tap into its tourism potential and draw more Norht American retirees to its unique charm.

 

Back in Mexico’s central interior, Morelia is also another growing option. Located conveniently between Guadalajara and Mexico City (a couple of hours away from each), it also provides all the conveniences of a city, while having retained the atmosphere of old colonial roads, beautiful architecture, and well landscaped parks. Morelia real estate likewise offers a large variety of options, and since it is still very undiscovered by foreign buyers, the prices are still very low.

 

If you are thinking about retiring in Mexico, consider the option of Mexico’s interior – a charming small town, or a colonial city may be the lifestyle perfect for relaxation in your retirement.

 

TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

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