As 2025 draws to a close, we’re reflecting on the myLifeSite blog posts that resonated most with readers this year, ranked by views. These are the articles, guides, and insights you clicked on, shared, and returned to when you needed clarity, practical guidance, or a fresh perspective.
Covering topics from retirement planning and senior living costs to long-term care, here are the myLifeSite posts that defined the year and earned top spots on your reading list.
- A Stark Contrast in ‘Peak 65’ Baby Boomers’ Retirement Savings Pictures
“Peak 65” Baby Boomers—the largest cohort of Americans reaching age 65—illustrate a stark financial divide. While many in this generation have accumulated significant assets thanks to favorable economic conditions over their lifetimes, a substantial share still lack adequate retirement savings. Median retirement assets for many are far below recommended levels, and gaps persist across gender, race, and education.
This article examines how these contrasting financial realities affect senior living choices. It also emphasizes the broader societal implications and the need for more affordable, innovative solutions within the senior living and long-term care sectors.
- Considering a ‘Gray Marriage’? What to Know Before Saying ‘I Do’ in Later Life
Finding love later in life can be deeply rewarding, but marriage in later years brings important legal, financial, and emotional considerations. This post outlines how marriage may affect estate planning, retirement benefits, Social Security, taxes, and healthcare decisions. Combining households can influence inheritances, benefit eligibility, and long-term care planning.
Beyond financial impacts, the article stresses the importance of open communication with family members and clear conversations about expectations, living arrangements, and blended family dynamics. Thoughtful planning can help older adults make marriage decisions that honor both emotional and practical needs.
- Is a Retirement Community Entry Fee Tax Deductible?
Many residents of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs or life plan communities) may be able to deduct part of their entry fee as a pre-paid medical expense under IRS rules. Even residents who currently live independently and aren’t using medical services can sometimes qualify for this benefit.
The type of CCRC residency contract—Type A (lifecare), Type B (modified), or Type C (fee-for-service)—affects how much of the entry fee is deductible, since only the non-refundable portion qualifies. To claim the deduction, residents must itemize instead of taking the standard deduction. Because rules and deductible amounts vary by community and contract, consulting a tax professional and reviewing IRS guidance is recommended.
- When Should I Get on the Wait List at a Retirement Community?
Knowing when to join a wait list for a CCRC or other retirement community depends on personal needs and goals, but planning ahead is generally wiser than waiting for a crisis. Popular CCRCs, assisted living, and memory care communities often have limited availability and may require deposits to reserve a spot.
This post outlines strategies for joining wait lists, explains how different list types operate (including open-ended and “strike rule” lists), and offers practical steps for before and after joining—such as touring multiple options and taking advantage of perks for prospective residents.
And the most popular senior living blog post on myLifeSite for 2025 was…
- The Pros & Cons of 55+ Active Adult Communities
55+ active adult communities are age-qualified neighborhoods built for a low-maintenance, retirement-friendly lifestyle. This most-read post outlines the key benefits and potential drawbacks to consider when evaluating these communities as a senior living option.
On the positive side, active adult communities typically reduce exterior home maintenance through HOA-managed services, foster social connections with peers, provide quieter neighborhoods, and include amenities such as fitness centers and organized activities that support an active lifestyle. On the downside, these communities can lack age diversity, may restrict visits from younger family members, and generally do not offer on-site healthcare or assisted living, meaning residents must arrange external care if needed.
Lessons, insights, and looking forward
The topics that drew the most interest in 2025 reflect readers’ desire for clarity, confidence, and proactive planning. From housing options and financial considerations to major life decisions, these most-read posts highlight the practical questions older adults and their families are exploring.
We’re grateful to our readers for relying on myLifeSite as a trusted resource. In the coming year, we’ll continue delivering timely insights and practical guidance to help you make informed choices about retirement living and care.