Exploring the Amenities in a Senior Rental Residential Community
New Yorkers reaching retirement age increasingly choose to rent in senior residential communities instead of purchasing a traditional home or apartment. These buildings often include full amenities and concierge services tailored to seniors.
Many of these communities also offer onsite assisted living care. This helps ease the transition from independent living to long-term care.
Parking
Residents will want to be sure that there are plenty of parking options. A National Multifamily Housing Council study found that parking was senior renters’ second most desired community amenity.
Many cities structure their parking requirements based on dwelling unit type or number of bedrooms. For example, single-family homes may need to provide one off-street parking space, while duplexes might need two rooms.
Look for typical safety precautions such as good lighting throughout the property and private attached garages. This will help seniors feel safe and secure in their new homes.
Security
Seniors want to feel safe and comfortable in their housing. Look for a community that designs beyond code minimums for safety in common areas, elevators, and resident rooms.
Also, check whether or not your landlord is open to preapproving maximum rental increases. This can help you avoid being caught off guard by a rent increase when your Social Security checks come in. It can also save you money in the long run.
Common areas
Senior apartments are typically restricted to seniors over 55 or 62 per HUD regulations. They offer residents a community dining hall, housekeeping services, transportation, and social activities.
Some senior rental communities have meals and services built into the monthly rent, while others offer them a la carte. Understanding what you pay for before moving into a community like Sarasota assisted living is essential.
Look for wheelchair accessibility features like doors and rooms wide enough for wheelchairs, low pile carpet, and grab bars. Also, look for a secure building and safe neighborhood.
Transportation
Many senior rental residential communities include transportation services for residents. This can be a big convenience, especially if you aren’t comfortable driving or need to be around younger people.
In addition, some seniors choose to rent because they want to eliminate maintenance responsibilities or live among similarly aged neighbors. They may also be interested in a pet-friendly community or amenities like a pool, gym, or library.
Low-income older adults can qualify for affordable senior apartments through local housing programs. These projects set aside 30% of units for seniors referred by a city or state agency.
Meals
Many senior rental communities have amenities built into monthly fees, such as meals, housekeeping, transportation, and onsite recreation. In addition, some have a la carte services that can be purchased as needed.
These communities are typically marketed to seniors without age restrictions but are usually restricted to people 55 or older per HUD guidelines. Often, they have income limitations and lengthy wait lists for available housing.
Exercise facilities
If a building has an onsite gym, that can make a big difference for elders who want to stay active. It’s a convenient way to exercise and socialize with neighbors.
If you’re considering a CCRC, check the entrance fee contract carefully — some have a benevolence clause that ensures a resident won’t be asked to move if their financial assets run low. They also generally charge a monthly rental fee that includes services and care.
Social activities
A community that offers social activities can keep your senior residents happy and active. This is especially important for women, who depend more on social support to participate in physical activities.
Access to a library and computer room can help seniors continue their education and stay in touch with family and friends. Offering educational seminars on a variety of topics can also be helpful.
These are just a few typical amenities in most senior rental residential communities. When taking a property tour, don’t hesitate to ask about safety measures and additional features.
Personal care
Senior rental communities are usually the least expensive path to retirement living. Residents typically sign a lease for an apartment or townhouse and may pay a community fee and monthly maintenance.
Most of these communities offer independent living with assisted living services available onsite at an additional per diem cost. Some communities also have memory care and skilled nursing care.
During your tour, ask how much care each community provides as part of its monthly fees. Ask about typical safety precautions throughout each unit and in common areas.
