•  Canada’s guide to retirement living and care
• Lifestyle options

Active Adult vs Independent Living

Compare and contrast these two options here

Overview of active adult lifestyle

Active adult communities (also called a variety of other names, such as adult lifestyle communities, 55plus, bungalow retirement communities, resort communities, and others) are a continuing trend in housing for seniors. These are ideal for those who have emptied the nest and want to downsize or reinvest the equity in their family home. 

These aren't retirement communities in any traditional sense, and communities have no true age restriction; people may move in in their late 40s, for example. Homes can be single-family dwellings, /mobile or manufactured homes, cluster housing, condo-style housing, or special subdivisions. Occupants lease or purchase the residence and enjoy an independent lifestyle with neighbors in their age group.

These communities have features and activities that older adults find fulfilling and enjoyable. From indoor swimming pools and lush golf courses to onsite shopping and transportation, active adult communities suit the needs of healthy and active seniors.

Overview of independent living

Independent living, on another hand, are housing units designed specifically for seniors, often with an age limit around 65. They tend to be mid-rise buildings in a residential area. 

Residents of independent living residences care for themselves and live independently in a secure environment with their peers. Residents don't usually require assistance with day-to-day activities, but may use the services of a care provider as required. Communities tend to have easily accessible amenities, features, and services, all under one roof. 

The key difference between independent living and other housing options is the degree of overall assistance in daily living activities. While seniors in independent living homes take care of the majority of their own needs, they may be offered meals, laundry services, linen delivery, and planned activities.

However, if one requires round-the-clock help with eating, dressing, and using the toilet, or requires regular medical assistance, other housing options such as assisted living or nursing homes may be a better option. Active adult living is limited in the type of care options available to seniors, and the focus of housing is on seniors who are, as implied by the name, very active. Subsequently, amenities and services (like golf, a rec center, and shuffleboard or pickleball courts) may be more spread out. 

Read reviews of active lifestyle communities near Toronto or lifestyle communities in southwest Ontario 

Independent living offers a good deal of comfort, security, and safety, but medical care is limited. Meals, housekeeping, transportation, and planned social activities are offered to seniors. There are many types of independent living facilities, from apartment complexes to separate houses. Continuing care retirement facilities provide independent living as well as other types of senior housing with more services at the same facility.

With the aging of the baby boomers, both active adult and independent living options are getting equally popular. Many independent adults who do not need care opt for active adult living, while seniors who may need some care services can choose from the wide range of homes that offer independent living.

Side-by-side comparison