The majority of aging Americans hold favorable views on their area’s senior living communities, and 50% of seniors believe their community contributes to a healthy lifestyle, according to a survey conducted by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) in collaboration with UnitedHealthcare and USA TODAY.
The survey, which examined the views of Americans aged 60 and older, found approximately 60% of aging Americans hold favorable outlooks on nearby senior living communities, although about 90% of older Americans plan to continue living in their homes for the next 10 years of their lives.
The 70+ demographic was the most favorable toward senior-oriented housing in their communities, at 68%. Only 11% of this age group viewed the senior living communities unfavorably, compared to 17% of the 60-69 age cohort.
Most seniors plan on staying in their communities as they age, but among those thinking about moving, it’s usually because they’d prefer a better climate (41%), want to move closer to a loved one or friend (37%), or are looking for a more affordable area (36%).
Of the complaints by the 4% of surveyed seniors who believe their community hinders their ability to lead happy and healthy lives, affordability, walkability and little access to public transportation are the greatest concerns. Seniors cite warmer weather, less “hustle and bustle,” and more residents their age as components that would help them lead a better lifestyle.
While seniors surveyed hold a positive outlook on the availability of older adult support services offered by non-profits and churches, approximately 50% of seniors have never visited senior centers their community offers.
Despite transportation complaints, most seniors believe they can meet their daily needs within their communities.
View the full survey here.
Written by Erin Hegarty
