What Makes Santa Marta’s Villas Different from 55+ Communities?

After decades of doing everything from mowing the lawn and raking leaves to scooping snow, unclogging drains, and tackling an endless list of household projects, you might be ready to explore options that are less time-consuming. If you’ve started your research, you’ve probably come across terms like “senior living” and “55+ communities.” While they may sound similar, there are actually quite a few differences between a 55+ community and a senior living community like Santa Marta.

Let’s compare senior living vs. a 55+ community.

What is a 55+ Community?

55+ communities, also called active adult communities, are similar to traditional residential neighborhoods — except they have a minimum age requirement and are designed with a retirement-friendly, low-maintenance lifestyle in mind.

These communities can include single-family homes, duplexes, condominiums, or townhomes, typically owned by the resident. Interior maintenance and daily upkeep are the homeowner’s responsibility, while exterior maintenance is usually covered by monthly homeowners’ association (HOA) dues. Other than HOA dues (and possibly a mortgage payment), there are typically no other required monthly fees in an active adult community.

Pros and Cons of 55+ Communities

These communities are designed to attract active adults looking to downsize from a larger home, offering the chance to enjoy a simpler lifestyle.

Pros include:

• Social life: You’ll live among people of a similar age with shared interests and goals.
• Resort-style amenities: Some exterior maintenance may be included, and amenities—such as tennis courts, golf courses, pools, or fitness centers — might be covered by monthly fees or offered à la carte.

Cons include:

• Selling your 55+ residence: With a limited buyer pool due to the age requirement, it may take longer to sell your home.
• Taxes and utilities: You’re responsible for property taxes, insurance, garbage collection, interior maintenance, appliances, utilities, internet, and TV services.
• No on-site care options: If you or your spouse needs a higher level of care, you may have to move again — or pay separately for that care while still covering your 55+ housing costs.

What is Senior Living?

Senior living communities — often referred to as retirement communities — are designed for older adults, most of whom are retired. These communities offer an active lifestyle and freedom from home maintenance responsibilities.

At Santa Marta, our villas include a variety of spacious floor plans, each designed for comfort and convenience. Our retirement villa amenities include a fitness center, heated indoor pool, multiple dining venues, salon and barbershop, arts and crafts studio, and more. Services such as housekeeping, linen service, transportation, dining, and 24/7 security are all included — plus, each villa features a private entrance and attached garage for the privacy of a standalone home.

Pros and Cons of Senior Living

Moving to a Life Plan Community like Santa Marta is a smart choice if you’re in good health and want to maintain your current lifestyle — while gaining the security of on-site care if it’s ever needed.

Pros include:

• Maintenance-free lifestyle: Our dedicated team handles all interior and exterior upkeep.
• All-in-one monthly fee: Covers services, amenities, wellness programs, maintenance, dining, and a full calendar of activities.
• Social opportunities: Scheduled parties, happy hours, events, and outings ensure you’re never short on things to do.
• On-site care: If you or your spouse ever needs long-term care, you won’t have to move—and you’ll be surrounded by familiar faces.
• Tax savings: A portion of your entrance and monthly fees may be tax-deductible. (Consult your tax advisor.)

Cons include:

• So many choices: With a packed calendar of classes, clubs, and committees, the only challenge might be deciding what to do next.
• Paying for care you might not use: While some may never need long-term care, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 70% of adults age 65+ will require some form of it for an average of 3 years.

A Lifestyle with Care Included

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a senior living option like a villa at Santa Marta is never needing to move again—even if your health needs change.

As a Life Plan Community, Santa Marta offers access to higher levels of care — assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation — all on-site. And if you choose a Life Plan Community with Life Care, like Santa Marta, you’ll enjoy predictable monthly rates even if your care needs increase.

If you’re ready to explore retirement communities in Kansas, contact one of our helpful senior living counselors today.