I know a fair amount about retirement living. I had great interest in the retirement community my mother had chosen. It made me think about such matters for my own future. I have to admit, the communities I know about are wonderful. If it were not for that age limit, I would consider moving now! But, alas, I am still too young!

However, I saw this article as I was wrapping this week’s viewing of ‘Downton Abbey’ , it was a story on university based retirement communities. OHHH, that is a great idea. One thing I have would wish for in my retirement would be a college or university nearby. A college brings its facilities, entertainment, lecturers, learning and youth!  My 91year old aunt pointed out to on one of my first visits to her at her retirement community that it is nice, but it is filled with old people.  So a youthful energy is a good thing.

Right now there are about 100 of such communities and that never is expected to double in the next ten years.  For those who may not incorporate communities more of a connection or affiliation with a local campus and you would have access in much the same way the students do to the campus.

If you have done any retirement planning you know, it can be costly.  However, the university-affiliated centers are in line with other retirement communities, typically charging $1,500 to $3,000 a month. But, they are not all the same, so if you like this idea for your grand-parents or parents (or you self) do the research.  The article suggested really looking at how the school and retirement community are aligned and how much of it appeals to you.

One of the big things that made me smile about my mom’s community as well as my aunt’s, when you move in, you have to provide a key to your car. Why? When it snows, they move your car so they can do proper snow removal and then put it back in its spot.  Sweet!

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