How to Choose the Right Retirement Living Environment for Seniors in the United States: Exploring Three Major New Trends

How to Choose the Right Retirement Living Environment for Seniors in the United States: Exploring Three Major New Trends

Where to live after retirement? Is it living with children in a multi-generational household, or moving into a retirement community with a spouse? In the United States, various types of retirement communities and retirement homes are available on the market to cater to the diverse needs of seniors. As modern individuals increasingly prioritize quality of life, the trends in retirement living are gradually evolving.

According to a report from the Administration on Aging in the United States, in 2020, 17% of Americans were over the age of 65, equivalent to one-sixth of the total population. With the aging population structure in the United States, there are approximately 55.7 million people aged 65 and older. As many individuals approach retirement age, the primary consideration becomes the living environment after retirement. There are three trends worth considering for planning retirement life in this new era.

Trend 1: Seniors Tend to Age in Place

In the past, retirement in the United States often involved living in retirement homes, where standardized meals and comprehensive medical care for housing and personal assistance ensured residents received round-the-clock care. However, for seniors who can live independently, the enclosed and regimented lifestyle of retirement homes can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Therefore, in recent years, the trend in elder care in Europe and America has gradually shifted from traditional closed institutions to Aging in Place, creating elderly-friendly community living environments.

Trend 2: Emergence of Senior Apartments and Active Living Apartments

In response to the evolving trends in elder care, retirement communities in the United States have transitioned into open community environments, allowing seniors to interact with others in their daily lives and maintain independence. However, senior apartments typically have age restrictions, requiring residents to be over 65 years old, and government subsidies are often limited to those who qualify as low to moderate-income households. Therefore, for the middle-aged population under 65 who can live independently, active living apartments in convenient communities with good transportation and amenities might be a more suitable option.

Trend 3: Increasing Focus on Quality of Life in Retirement Communities

With the extension of human life expectancy, the quality of retirement life has become increasingly important. Many seniors in their 50s and 60s hope to live a vibrant and healthy life with quality. Therefore, when planning for retirement, seniors typically prefer retirement communities with a sufficient number of restaurants, supermarkets, shopping centers, and cultural and entertainment facilities in the vicinity, enhancing their daily lives and making them more fulfilling.

Moreover, access to medical resources such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities near retirement communities, as well as convenient transportation options, significantly influence the healthcare conditions and well-being of seniors. All of these factors are crucial considerations for seniors in ensuring the quality and happiness of their retirement life.

Grand West Condos: An Ideal Choice for Active Living

Located on the outskirts of Houston, Grand West Condos is the preferred choice for active living apartments, offering well-equipped appliances and secure smart electronic locks for convenient access, which are very senior-friendly. Residents can also enjoy convenient home amenities such as washers, dryers, and basic kitchen facilities for cooking.

Within walking distance from the condos lies the mature Katy Asian Town district, where residents can indulge in a variety of Asian cuisines such as Sichuan, Cantonese, Korean hot pot, Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian flavors. Residents can also walk to Hmart Asian supermarket to purchase ingredients and enjoy coffee and pastries at 85°C.

For shopping and entertainment, there are Kinokuniya bookstore, Cinemark theater, and PopStroke mini-golf catering to various daily needs and leisure activities. Even if seniors do not cook, they can order from a variety of restaurants through the exclusive delivery platform “AMA On-The-Go” in Katy Asian Town, enjoying diverse cuisines at home with just one delivery fee.

Furthermore, Grand West Condos is located near the intersection of Interstate 10 and Highway 99, only a 10-minute drive to Katy Medical Center. If seniors wish to travel to downtown Houston for dining or socializing with friends, it takes approximately 25 minutes by car. There is also a Metro bus terminal near the condos, providing convenient transportation options even for those who do not drive.

Grand West Condos does not impose age restrictions like traditional senior apartments or retirement communities. Therefore, if you are looking for a retirement residence or considering living in the same area as your children, Grand West Condos, with its secure smart electronic locks, convenient delivery platform, and lack of age restrictions, is highly suitable for active and vibrant seniors. Welcome to visit!

For more information about Grand West Condos, visit: https://grandwestcondos.com/