Senior communities are an excellent idea for a senior who may be struggling with some aspects of their day-to-day life but still want to remain as independent as possible. But sometimes, a family or friend may be in need, or a person may require specific care that these communities offer. What happens if this person is under the age of 55? Can they still live in a senior care community?
In general, most senior care communities only allow adults over the age of 55 to live there. However, some of these communities may make an exception in some circumstances, like if a person needs a specific form of medical care that this location offers.
It’s important to remember, however, that every location is different. Some communities may be willing to allow younger adults to live there, while others may be stricter. Each has its own requirements for senior living, so it’s best to contact them and ask!
What is a Senior Community?
A senior community is a community specifically set up for adults in their senior years. Normally, these communities focus on independent living: giving each resident the care they need to be healthy, but allowing them to have as much independence as possible.
These communities are designed to be safe and supportive of their residents. They often provide meals and transportation for the community and offer all kinds of services and amenities. By scheduling events, offering classes, and setting up different programs, residents always have access to something interesting and new.
Each resident has a care plan custom-tailored to their specific and unique needs, but allows them to live their life as they see fit. This gives them the opportunity to be autonomous and independent but still receive their support. By ensuring each person there has the best quality of life possible, senior living communities are an excellent option for a senior who needs some help but wants to remain independent.
What Exceptions Allow a Younger Person to Live in a Senior Community?
While these communities are primarily for people over the age of 55, there are some possible exceptions. It’s important to remember, though, that each community may differ on their specific requirements.
For example, a person with a disability may be allowed to live there if the specific level of care they need is similar to that of a senior. If they require the same support typically required of an older adult, the community may make an exception.
A senior community may also allow the family member or friend of an existing resident to live there if they deem the situation acceptable. If a person has lost their home or needs a place for a few days, the community may be willing to allow a loved one of an existing resident to live on the premises. If this loved one is the primary caretaker for a resident, they might also allow this exception.
In some situations, a senior community may have living options for the staff on-site as well, or for others working in a similar industry. Having a person that lives on-site trained to work with seniors or those in need of medical care would provide benefits to the community as well, so they may allow this.
Is Senior Living the Right Choice for Me?
At the end of the day, senior living is an excellent option for older adults who may be in need of a certain level of care they can’t receive in their own home. However, for a person under the age of 55, there are typically other options available.
Independent living communities for people of all ages exist, so these may be worth looking into as well. However, if one of the previous situations applies to you, it may be worth looking into. Consider contacting some of the communities nearby if one offers the specific care you need.
By visiting some of the locations, you can speak to the staff and residents and explain your current situation. They can help you determine whether or not the community may be the right choice for you. Remember, though, that every senior living community is going to have different rules for what exceptions they’ll allow.
Here at Crescent Fields at Huntingdon Valley, we understand that some situations may make it difficult to find housing accommodations elsewhere. If you’re under the age of 55 and may be in need of the care offered in our community, feel free to reach out to us and schedule a tour!
