In a recent blog post about our 2023 myLifeSite Consumer Survey results, we reported that many people delay a move to a retirement community because they don’t trust the organization or staff (34.8%) or because they worry about leaving the comfort and independence of their current home (37.3%). The most common concern, however, was cost and affordability, cited by 41.3% of respondents. But what motivates people to actually make the move to a retirement community?
>> Related: Survey Results: Obstacles to a Retirement Community Move
Insightful feedback on senior living decisions
Our 10-question consumer survey examined the main factors that influence senior living choices, including:
- Social connection and community involvement
- Diversity and inclusion
- Location and lifestyle
- Family and relationships
- Financial concerns
- Health and independence
- Community/residence and amenities
- Downsizing and moving logistics
- Personal preferences and lifestyle
- Community management and governance
- Unique circumstances
Although our sample included 255 participants, which is modest in size, the responses offer useful insights for retirement communities and the broader senior living industry. The findings show that decisions about senior living are influenced by a complex mix of social, financial, health, and logistical considerations.
Motivations to move to a retirement community
While studies consistently show that about three out of four adults age 50 and older prefer to remain in their homes as long as possible, that choice isn’t ideal for everyone. Our survey found several reasons people consider a move to a retirement community.
Nearly half of respondents (47.5%) said the social and wellness benefits were somewhat or very important when deciding to move. Many retirement communities provide robust opportunities for staying active and social — important elements of healthy aging — such as fitness centers, pools, golf courses, clubhouses, and regular social events like mixers and gatherings.
About 51.4% of respondents identified the easy, maintenance-free lifestyle as an attractive reason to move. Most 55-plus communities handle exterior maintenance like landscaping and snow removal, and many also offer services such as housekeeping, linen service, and meal plans that simplify daily life.
>> Related: Social Connection Among the Benefits of Retirement Communities
The top reasons people move to a retirement community
While a maintenance-free home and opportunities to stay active are appealing, respondents identified an even stronger motivator. The top reason to move to a retirement community was having access to care if needed so they would not become a burden on family. A striking 75.3% said this was somewhat or very important to their decision, and 54.6% said it was the most important reason.
This concern was the top reason across all age groups in our survey, from those under 65 to those 85 and older. That pattern may reflect the planning mindset of many visitors to our site and readers of our blog, who prioritize access to care. It also suggests that retirement communities offering care services should highlight that fact in their outreach and marketing.
Access to care and avoiding burdening loved ones was the leading reason regardless of marital status. Married or partnered respondents were most likely to identify this as the single most important reason (57.3%), followed by those who are divorced or separated (54.2%).
>> Related: The High Price of Family Caregiving
Seeking out access to care in senior living
The emphasis on access to care and not wanting to burden family helps narrow the search for the right senior living option. Many 55-plus or active adult communities do not provide on-site care services; residents in those communities may hire private caregivers or rely on family caregivers, which may not fully address concerns about being a burden.
Other options, such as independent living (rental retirement communities), may provide some on-site care services if needed. For more complex needs or 24-hour care, assisted living communities or skilled nursing facilities are appropriate choices.
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs or life plan communities) offer independent living residences and a broad range of services, amenities, and activities. Importantly, CCRCs often provide priority access to higher levels of care, including assistance with activities of daily living and skilled nursing, sometimes on-site. That continuum of care can offer significant peace of mind for residents and their families and can help couples remain together even if one partner needs more advanced support.
>> Related: The Pain of Paying for Long-Term Care is Real; A CCRC Can Help
We appreciate your participation and insights!
People’s reasons for moving to a retirement community — or deciding not to — vary widely. When making your own senior living decision, research the options and prioritize the factors that matter most to you. myLifeSite provides a variety of tools and resources, many free, to help you make an informed choice.
Thank you to everyone who completed our survey. Your input is appreciated and provided valuable insight.