The Baby Boom generation redefined America,
and they continue to do so as they reach retirement, demanding
a wide variety of lifestyle options. In keeping with this
trend, many of today’s retiring seniors are opting
for city sidewalks over country roads, thanks to an ever-growing
list of amenities. Plus, many people find that the pace
of city life helps them think younger and maintain their
interest in life as they age. So, if you identify with the
hit song “You Belong to the City,” then urban
retirement may be the right decision for your golden years.
That choice is expected to become more appealing
as we approach the next post-millennium decade, given that
the number of Americans over age 50 is expected to triple
in the next 10 years, to some 252 million
individuals. That means most major cities will develop large
populations of 50+-aged residents, and can be expected to
adapt their services accordingly.
Among the advantages you can expect with urban post-retirement
communities:
Social Opportunities: Research
has found that establishing a good social network is critical
to a person’s satisfaction with post-retirement life.
In fact, it’s more important than either the size
of their retirement income or their overall quality of health.
People who relocate to the city generally find it easier
to develop or expand their circle of friends, through such
agencies as community centers, hobby clubs, religious institutions,
special interest classes and volunteer networks. This can
be particularly helpful in avoiding depression in the wake
of a health crisis or the death of a spouse.
Public Transportation.
Seniors who live in the country and become unable to drive
are dependent upon others for basic transportation. Even
if they are physically able to drive, they must be able
to afford car payments, auto insurance, repairs and gasoline.
All of these expenses obviously can be a major burden for
someone living on a fixed income. In contrast, older residents
in urban areas have ready access to public transportation,
usually at discounted senior citizen rates. If no subway
or bus station is nearby, taxi service is readily available,
and the fees usually are reasonable. Access to public transportation
can be a good way for seniors to remain independent and
mobile, without having to impose on family and friends.
Access to Medical Services.
It’s not hard to figure out how your odds of surviving
a heart attack or stroke improve if you live 15 minutes
from the nearest hospital, rather than an hour’s drive
into the country. But it’s not just emergency services
that are more readily available. As people live longer and
medical treatments improve, it’s realistic to assume
that most retired couples will be dealing with some sort
of medical issue on a longterm basis. Urban living offers
the chance to be close to doctors, specialists, pharmacies,
physical therapists, rehabilitation centers, pain clinics,
home health agencies, support groups and other types of
care that you and your spouse are likely to need.
Access to Local Businesses.
Seniors who live in downtown lofts, condos or apartments
often only need to walk one or two blocks to get their dry
cleaning, pick up a loaf of bread, get a newspaper or find
other daily living items they need. Even if it’s necessary
to travel a bit further, shopping opportunities are plentiful
in virtually every urban area. Both smaller and larger cities
also contain more discount shopping outlets – a bonus
for seniors on a restricted income.
Restaurants. After years
of cooking for their families, many seniors prefer the luxury
of restaurant dining. Even smaller cities offer a wide variety
of dining experiences, many of which are affordable, offer
senior citizen discounts and/or deliver food to the customer’s
home.
Fitness. Exercise is arguably
the single greatest thing seniors can do to improve and
maintain their health. Cities are home to gyms, fitness
centers, hospital wellness programs and other options tailored
to the special fitness needs of older Americans. Those who
don’t want to sign up for an organized program can
walk in local parks or at an indoor mall during inclement
weather.
Continuing Education. Today’s
seniors know the importance of exercising their brains,
as well as their bodies. Urban living provides access to
a wide range of classes, through local universities, museums,
city recreation departments, etc. Enrolling in these types
of courses can help stave off the depression that some people
feel once they stop working full time.
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