The latest AARP Home and Community Preferences Study found that 80% of Americans aged 65 and older want to stay in their current homes as they age, even though many acknowledge their homes may not meet all future needs.
Deciding where to live in retirement is among the most important and emotional choices older adults and their families face. Whether remaining in a longtime home, moving to a 55+ active adult community, choosing independent living, or considering a continuing care retirement community (CCRC or life plan community), the decision requires long-term planning for lifestyle, finances, and health.
Although many older adults express interest in CCRCs and other retirement communities, research shows many delay the move. Studies by NORC at the University of Chicago consistently find that people often wait until a health event or crisis forces a move instead of planning proactively. Delaying can limit options, increase stress, and reduce the chance to enjoy the full benefits retirement communities offer.
Below are three common reasons seniors postpone a move and why considering a retirement community earlier may produce better outcomes.
1. “I’m not ready yet”: The emotional attachment to home
U.S. Census data show only about 6% of households headed by someone 65 or older relocate each year, compared with 14% of younger households. Much of this reluctance stems from not wanting to leave a familiar, cherished home.
This aligns with AARP research on aging in place, which indicates most older adults prefer to remain in their homes as long as possible. Yet the emotional pull to stay can overshadow practical considerations. Most U.S. homes were not built with aging in mind: Census findings report fewer than half of homes have basic aging-ready features such as step-free entries or first-floor living. Over time, stairs, upkeep, and accessibility issues can turn a beloved house into a source of stress or risk.
Isolation and loneliness are also serious concerns with documented negative health consequences. Many residents choose CCRCs or retirement communities specifically to reduce loneliness and increase social engagement.
Moving earlier does not mean surrendering independence. Research shows a proactive move can preserve autonomy: relocating while still active allows individuals to choose a community on their terms, form relationships, participate in activities, and remain engaged even if health needs develop later.
2. “A retirement community is too expensive”: Understanding true costs and value
Cost is a common reason people delay moving to a retirement community. Entrance fees and monthly service charges can look high at first glance, but assessing only those headline numbers can be misleading.
Aging at home brings substantial costs that are often overlooked, including property taxes, utilities, maintenance, home accessibility modifications, in-home care as needs rise, transportation, and other support services. These expenses can accumulate significantly over time.
By contrast, many retirement communities bundle housing, services, amenities, and healthcare access into a predictable monthly fee or contract structure. CCRCs, for example, typically provide a continuum of care—from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing—reducing the likelihood of multiple disruptive and costly moves later.
From a planning perspective, delaying a move can also narrow options. Waiting until health declines may affect eligibility for certain contracts, increase costs, or require entering a higher-cost care level immediately. While moving may not always be cheaper than staying at home, evaluating options holistically shifts the question from cost alone to long-term value, including peace of mind for residents and their families.
3. “What if I don’t need care?”: Underestimating future care needs
Many older adults feel healthy and independent and question whether they will ever need higher levels of care, which leads them to postpone planning. Yet research indicates roughly 70% of people who reach age 65 will need long-term services or support at some point. Health needs can change gradually or suddenly, and planning ahead gives you more control and usually better outcomes.
CCRCs address care uncertainty by offering a built-in continuum of services that lets residents transition within the same community as needs change. Evidence suggests older adults in organized retirement communities receive more preventive care, rehabilitation, and support than those living in the general population, contributing to better wellness and healthier aging.
Planning ahead also eases the burden on adult children. When a family lacks a plan, urgent decisions during a health crisis are emotionally and financially stressful. Shifting the mindset from “Do I need this now?” to “What might I need in five to ten years?” supports more practical, empowering decisions.
Timing matters: Why earlier can be better
Each senior living option has benefits and trade-offs. Aging at home offers familiar surroundings; active adult communities focus on 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, simplifying choices and increasing security over time.
Timing is often overlooked. Many wait until their early 80s or until an event like a fall or illness prompts a move. Moving earlier while still active and independent offers important advantages:
- Broader 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 can help preserve health longer
CCRCs are not just about care; they support independence, community, and proactive planning for peace of mind.
From delay to deliberate decision
Delaying a senior living move is understandable. It’s a major life choice that involves finances, emotions, and uncertainty. However, the process need not be overwhelming. By exploring options early, asking the right questions, and considering current and likely future needs, older adults and their families can make informed, confident decisions.
The goal is not only to pick a place to live but to create a plan that supports autonomy, health, dignity, and quality of life for years to come. If you or a loved one are beginning to consider senior living, starting the conversation now won’t force an immediate move—but it will preserve the most choices for the future.
Original post date: November 25, 2019; updated April 13, 2026