Should I Retire Near Family or Live in an Active Adult Community?

When you pass 55, you need to consider where you will retire to. Will you stay close to home or live away? Are you up for a change of scenery or would you prefer to stay close to family? Although these decisions are not all that important to some, they are sometimes the criteria many consider when moving to 55+ communities. So, what do you think? Should you retire near the family? Let’s consider the pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of Retiring Near Family

Retiring close to family can mean many things. Considering its pros and cons before making your decision might be a good idea.

Pros

• You get to be close to your grandkids and be a part of their lives.
• You are able to help your children handle the difficult and complicated task of work and bringing up kids.
• You get to see your children often.
• You get support from your children and other family members if you are unable to handle certain things in life.
• There is always someone to talk with. Loneliness is not an issue.
• You will always feel useful.

Cons

• You might be too close to your family’s peace of mind. Remember, grandparents can really get in the way.
• Your children may not be living in an ideal state. For example, you may wish to retire in sunny Florida while your children may be living in Philadelphia.
• Babysitting duties may be expected of you and you may start to feel as if you are taking advantage of.
• You might be a burden to your children rather than help.

Why not Retire in an Active Adult Community?

Many 55+ seniors consider living in active adult communities. These 55 and over communities let you enjoy the life you have always wanted. You will not get in anyone’s way and you will not be the designated babysitter. Loneliness will never be an issue at an active retirement community as you will be living with others the same age as you. Living in these 55 plus communities enables you to have your grandkids over whenever you wish so that you don’t miss out on enjoying them.

So, the question here should be whether you wish to live in a retirement community or with your family. We suggest you consider the former. You will not regret it.

This article is brought to you by ActiveAdultLiving.com®, the website that offers you information on more than 8,500 55+ communities in the US and Canada.