The most recent AARP Home and Community Preferences Study reports that 80% of Americans aged 65 and older want to remain in their current home as they age, even though many acknowledge that their home may not fully meet future needs.
Choosing where to live in retirement is one of the most important and often emotional decisions older adults and their families face. Whether staying at home, moving to a 55+ active adult community, choosing independent living, or considering a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), the decision requires long-term planning for lifestyle, finances, and health.
Although many express interest in CCRCs or other retirement communities, research shows many delay the move. Studies by NORC at the University of Chicago consistently find that older adults often wait until a health event or crisis forces a decision rather than planning proactively. Delaying can limit options, increase stress, and reduce the ability to fully benefit from retirement communities.
Below are three common reasons seniors postpone a move to senior living and why considering a retirement community earlier can produce better outcomes.
>> Related: Understanding the CCRC Health Evaluation Requirement: When Is the Right Time to Move?
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“I’m not ready yet”: The emotional pull of the current home
U.S. Census data shows that only about 6% of households headed by someone age 65 or older relocate annually, compared with 14% of younger households. A primary reason is the strong emotional attachment many older adults have to a familiar home.
AARP research on aging in place confirms that most older adults prefer to stay in their homes as long as possible. Yet the emotional appeal of staying can obscure practical realities: most homes were not designed for aging. Census findings indicate fewer than half of homes (around 40%) have basic “aging-ready” features like step-free entryways or first-floor living. Over time, stairs, maintenance, and accessibility challenges can turn a cherished home into a source of stress or risk.
Isolation and loneliness also pose real health risks. Public health research links social isolation with negative health outcomes, and many residents choose CCRCs or retirement communities specifically to increase social engagement and reduce loneliness.
Moving earlier does not mean giving up independence. Studies show that relocating proactively can actually help preserve autonomy. Choosing a community while still active allows individuals to select the environment that fits them, build relationships, participate in activities, and remain engaged even if health needs later change.
>> Related: Why Do Many Retirement Community Residents Say, “I Wish I’d Moved Sooner”?
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“A retirement community is too expensive”: Calculating the true cost
Cost concerns often delay moves to retirement communities. Upfront entrance fees and ongoing monthly service fees can appear high, but focusing only on these visible expenses can be misleading.
Aging at home carries its own significant and often underestimated costs, including:
- Property taxes, utilities, and maintenance
- Home modifications for accessibility
- In-home care services as needs increase
- Transportation and other support services
These expenses can add up over time. In contrast, many retirement communities include some of these services in a monthly fee. CCRC contracts, for example, often bundle housing, services, amenities, and future healthcare into a more predictable financial model. They typically provide access to a full continuum of care—from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing—reducing the risk of multiple costly moves later.
From a financial planning perspective, delaying a move can also limit choices. Waiting until health declines may reduce eligibility for certain contracts, increase costs, or force a move directly into higher-cost levels of care. Evaluating costs holistically shifts the question from “How much does it cost?” to “What value and peace of mind does it provide over time?”
>> Related: The Cost of a CCRC vs. the Value to Residents
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“What if I don’t need care?”: Underestimating future care needs
Uncertainty about future health needs is another reason people postpone moving to a retirement community. Many feel healthy and independent now and question whether they will ever require higher levels of care.
Research shows that roughly 70% of people who live to age 65 will need long-term care services at some point. Health can change gradually or suddenly; planning ahead gives you more control and often better outcomes.
CCRCs are designed to address such uncertainties by offering a built-in continuum of care that allows residents to transition from independent living to higher support levels without leaving the community. Studies suggest older adults in organized retirement communities receive more preventive care, rehabilitation, and overall support than those living in the general population, contributing to healthier aging.
Planning a proactive move can also reduce the burden on family members. Without a plan, families frequently face urgent, stressful decisions during health crises. Shifting the question from “Do I need this now?” to “What might I need in 5 to 10 years?” supports more practical and empowering decisions.
>> Related: Many People Underestimate Their Future Cost of Care
A broader perspective: Timing matters more than you think
Every senior living option has advantages and drawbacks. Aging at home offers familiarity; active adult communities emphasize lifestyle and independence; independent living reduces maintenance and increases social opportunities.
CCRCs stand out because they combine lifestyle, housing, and healthcare into a single long-term solution. This integrated approach can simplify decision-making and provide a stronger sense of security.
Timing is often overlooked. Many people wait until their early 80s or until a triggering event—like a fall or illness—to move. Yet moving earlier, while still active, offers benefits:
- Greater choice of communities, contract types, and housing options
- Easier physical and emotional transition
- More time to build friendships and social connections
- Access to wellness programs that may help maintain health longer
CCRCs are about maintaining independence, nurturing community, and planning proactively for peace of mind.
>> Related: Pre-Crisis vs. Post-Crisis Planning: Confronting Life’s Unknowns
From delay to deliberate decision
Delaying a senior living move is understandable—it’s a major life decision with financial, emotional, and uncertain elements. But the process need not be overwhelming.
Exploring options early, asking the right questions, and evaluating current and potential future needs helps older adults and their families make informed, confident choices. The aim is to create a plan that supports autonomy, health, dignity, and quality of life for years to come.
If you or a loved one is beginning to think about senior living, now may be the ideal time to start the conversation—not because you must move immediately, but because planning ahead preserves the most choices for the future.
Original post date: November 25, 2019; updated April 13, 2026