Understanding the rules of 55+ communities can be overwhelming at first, especially when a person requires specialized care. If you are seeking out a home for yourself or a loved one that is living with a disability, this does not need to prevent them from choosing where to live happily. However, sometimes the rules of housing communities do now allow for certain persons to live there.
Can a disabled person under 55 live in a 55+ community? Someone aged 55 or over must reside in 80% of the allotted housing, with the other 20% being up to the discretion of the 55+ community under the HOPA Act of 1995. Unless the community states otherwise, there needs to be someone over 55 in the home, whether they are disabled or not.
Further stipulations to be aware of are:
- Most 55+ communities will not allow anyone under the age of 18, regardless of having a roommate over the age of 55 or a disability.
- In-home care will not be provided or included within your fees, making an over 55 community a limited option for a person with disabilities.
This article will cover the basic rules of most 55+ communities, the HOPA Act, if people under 55 can be residents, as well as government resources and further housing alternatives available for those with disabilities. By the end of this quick read, you will have a clearer image of what these communities will offer you, what they won’t provide you, and alternative resources to consider exploring.
if you have trouble getting up a couple of stairs or have a wheelchair this ramp will help your everyday life. The Kindle and iPad are great devices for this day in age. Click the Amazon link for the most current price.
The Rules of Most 55+ Communities
The HOPA Act of 1995, which stands for ‘Housing for Older Persons Act,’ was enacted to protect all retirement (and 55+) communities from having younger people claim that they are just practicing age discrimination against those that are ‘too young’ to enter their facility.
With the pendulum swinging back and forth on this act, a balance must be sought by the housing communities that are trying to appeal to a specific retirement audience, as well as to the general public comprised of many that don’t like to feel left out.
Any over 55 Senior Housing community, based on HOPA’s regulation, can set their own rules regarding age, as long as they meet the following requirements to apply for a HOPA exemption:
- Rules are published publicly, stating that they are a community operating under the context and intention of being an ‘over 55’ community.
- At least 80% of the units house someone over the age of 55.
- Each community is HUD compliant regarding any age verification that is requested by the government.
After passing these standards, a community has much more freedom to set age regulations in the way they see fit.
Relating This to Those Under 55 With Disabilities
Now, given these regulations and adaptations that are evolving with the times, over 55 communities have more jurisdiction over what kind of community they want to run.
As a person under the age of 55 with a disability, you might be able to get a residency within an over 55 community, but you will most likely be required to live permanently with someone over 55. If the community does allow you to live without an over 55 resident, it is entirely up to that specific community.
Do keep in mind that a 55+ community might be happy to accept those under 55, but it will be rare. They will be very particular about those that they let into their community that are under 55 because reputation and themes need to be upheld.
Also, keep in mind that if they do allow you to be a resident, this will not include in-home care or specialized caregiving services. If you require assisted living, you will need to hire a live-in care specialist that can help you with your needs.
Since the regulation states that 80% of their homes within the community requires someone in the home being over the age of 55, simply having someone over 55 with you permanently will significantly raise your chances of being accepted or eligible for over 55 communities.
In the article ‘Can You Buy Property in a Senior Community if You Are Younger Than 55?’ by Deirdre Woollard, it is explained that you have a higher chance of being accepted as a younger resident in a 55+ community if “one of the individuals living in the home [is] over 55. For example, your Mom could live there, and you (under 55) can live there as long as she does. You both would have to go through the application and acceptance process.”
The only other case that may be considered (as an exception to the rule) is if a parent over the age of 55 is within the home while still officially recognized as the legal guardian of a child. This decision would again be up to the discretion of the over 55 establishment.
As you are researching Can a Disabled Person Under 55 Live in a 55+ Community, keep in mind your kids and grandchildren’s financial health. Save your family Thousands Of Dollars And Teach Them How To Build Their Wealth To Millions. Your KIDS and GRANDCHILDREN NEED This! The Family Treasure Tool Guide Click link below. Golden Rules, Budgeting Tool, Home Affordability Tool, House Payment Tool and a Compound Interest Calculator all in one guide!!!Family Treasure Tool Guide
Can Children Live In An Over 55 Community?
Yes, again, by the stipulation that someone within the home must be over the age of 55. As mentioned in the last section, at least 80% of the homes must have a resident over the age of 55.
But what about the other 20%?
This is where the HOPA allows for some wiggle-room. Those younger than 55 can become residents, but it will be on a case-by-case basis and be based on the judgment of that community. No law says they ‘have’ to let you in; in fact, it is quite the opposite.
However, it does happen from time to time and appears to be on the rise.
Younger generations are starting to be welcomed into over 55 communities in European nations, as an experiment to offer free room and board to students while mixing up the demographics within these senior housing communities. This is starting to appear more and more, showing great promise! The perks of this arrangement are:
- Age diversification
- The older generation gets time with younger residents, gets to feel young again, and the more youthful energy around the community raises morale and positivity.
- The younger residents are allowed to live for free.
What Your Residency Fees Do Cover
55+ communities tend to encourage home shoppers to purchase the property outright instead of renting it. Because of this, you will have all of the upfront fees of buying a home, making this a costly life change if you are accustomed to renting.
Prices will tend to be high because you are paying for a private community with local amenities. Most things will only be a quick stroll away from you, which is the appeal of living in a gated, secure, and resort-like community.
It is essential to make clear that you will be paying:
- The outright cost of the home or a mortgage
- Monthly fees
The monthly fees will be an average of $3628 per month (as of 2016), according to Retirement Living’s article titled, ’Senior Housing: What Does It Cost?’ As mentioned in this piece, there are four different senior homes with varying levels of in-home care, which will greatly impact the prices for each.
What your monthly residency fees will cover for you will include:
- Room and board
- Landscaping around the community
- Local amenities such as pool, golf course, and their maintenance
- Electricity, water, utilities
- Maintenance and repairs (as a landlord would cover in an apartment building)
- The gate’s security (a guard’s salary, gate maintenance, and security cameras)
Also sometimes included (depending on the expense/quality of the community) are the less common amenities of:
- Food and meal plans
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping service (usually weekly)
- Cable, phone, internet (all-inclusive)
- Shuttle transportation
- Some small level of assistance and help but not in-home care 24/7
What Your Residency Fees Do Not Cover
As you can see, you’re getting quite a bit when living in one of these communities, regardless of age.
But what you will not be getting for your high monthly fee or residency rate will be:
- In-Home care – The primary benefit that you will need to pay for separately is nursing and assistance. Especially as a disabled person that may not be fully independent, there can be better options for housing. Of course, there are different levels of over 55-retirement homes, ranging from fully active communities to those that require assisted living and in-home care.
An older community is more likely to be adapted for those that already require assistance, and it will be easier to adapt to the needs of someone disabled, but this is still often a separate fee. If you choose to live in a community that offers in-home care, this is usually covered by Medicare.
There is no doctor on-site usually, despite what you may believe. Many do not accept Medicaid or Medicare, so this will need to be sorted out beforehand if you require extensive assistance.
Housing Programs for The Disabled
There are many other housing options for disabled people under 55 to consider that may be more suited to their needs, depending on their disability. Some excellent housing resources that can help those who are disabled are:
- USA.Gov for Housing Resources – Housing help for those with disabilities, homeless, VA loans, Veterans, etc.
- Section 8 for Those with Disabilities – An organization and regulations established by those that advocate protecting federal housing laws for people with I/DD (Intellectually/Developmentally Disabled)
- Section 811 – “Through the Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program, HUD provides funding to develop and subsidized rental housing with the availability of supportive services for very low- and extremely low-income adults with disabilities.”
- Emergency Rental Assistance – Offering short-term assistance on a rental basis.
- Rental Assistance from Hud.Gov – HUD is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, established to protect homes, landlords, businesses, nonprofits, and rentals as a cabinet-level federal agency. They are present to assist with housing ownership, rental assistance, and often you pay your utility bill to HUD, directly or indirectly.
- How to Find Your Local Public Housing or HUD office – Search near your local zip code to find a public location near you.
- Assisted Living for Those with Disabilities – Care options for seniors, those with disabilities, financial support such as Medicaid and Medicare, HUD Resources, and additional state/local support resources.
Final Overview of Information
As reiterated by “The Pros & Cons of 55+ Active Adult Communities,” “If you view your active adult community residence as a real estate investment, it is important to consider that family members who are under 55 will not be permitted to use the property without a senior present.”
If you find a community that is willing to accept someone under 55, it will be done by their discretion and, often, it is only under the condition that you are living with someone who is over 55.
Disability does not need to hold you back in life, but what is holding you back from living in these communities will probably not be your disability, but rather, your age of being under 55.
In Conclusion
Most people are under the impression that someone under 55 will not be able to live in a 55+ community, and in most cases, they are correct. Most over 55 communities will not allow anyone under 55 to live in their community alone.
If you are ready to at least reach out to different facilities and research what they can do for you – check for Senior Living Communities in Your Local Area or search through Assisted Living for Those with Disabilities.
FAQs
Can someone younger than 55 live in 55+ communities in Florida? ›
Additionally, a family member who is younger than 55 may buy and live in a unit with someone who meets the age requirement. Moreover, a homebuyer who wishes to purchase a home in a 55+ community for a parent who meets the age guidelines can do so.
Can a disabled person under 55 live in a 55+ community in Arizona? ›There are no exceptions to this rule in non-subsidized housing, which means that underage, disabled residents may not move into a 55+ property by themselves – they would have to live with a “qualifying senior” (someone 55 or older) in order to legally reside in the community.
Can someone under 55 live in a 55+ community in Virginia? ›The simple answer to "Can someone younger than age 55 live in a 55+ community?" is yes, "but." While the Fair Housing Act stands against discrimination, there are age-related exceptions through HOPA.
Can a child live in a 55+ community in Florida? ›Yes, as long as your child is over 18 and at least one member of the household is 55 or older.
What is the 80/20 rule in a 55 plus community? ›At least 80 percent of occupied unites in a 55+ community must have at least one person living there who is over 55. This leaves the other 20 percent of the community's units available for people of any age, creating the “80/20 Rule.”
Can you live in the villages if you are under 55? ›Is The Villages a city or town? The Villages is an active adult community dedicated to people 55 and over. The Villages is a master-planned community, which means it is a residential area with a large number of recreational and commercial amenities.
What is independent living for persons with disabilities? ›The Independent Living Rehabilitation Program (IL) helps consumers live a more independent life. IL provides an alternative to living in a nursing home or other facility for eligible individuals. Services are person-centered and may be provided directly, purchased or coordinated through other community resources.
Can you live in Sun City if you are under 55? ›Since Sun City AZ is an age-restricted community, residents must be 19 years of age or older and at least one member of the household must be 55 years of age or older. With no schools in Sun City AZ, this means there are no taxes for such.
Can non seniors live in senior apartments Texas? ›In senior living communities where the minimum age is 62, however, there are no exceptions. Apartments for this age group do not permit any younger residents to live in their units.
What age is considered senior citizen in Virginia? ›"Senior citizen" means any person who, before the beginning of any term, semester or quarter in which such person claims entitlement to the benefits of this chapter, (i) has reached 60 years of age, and (ii) has had his legal domicile in this Commonwealth for one year.
What is an age restricted property? ›
Age-restricted general market housing: Generally for people aged 55 and over and the active elderly. It may include some shared amenities such as communal gardens, but does not include support or care services.
What does over 55 living mean? ›An over 55's complex is a community of homes and facilities that have been designed specifically for those who are still able to live an independent life in their own home. As the name suggests, anyone who is over the age of 55 can live in this type of complex whether you are retired or still working part time.
Can you live in a 55+ community if you are younger Reddit? ›I looked into this a bit further when we got home, and it turns out that these communities vary a bit in their interpretation of this regulation -- some still require all residents to be 55 or over, some allow adults younger than 55, as long as at least one resident in the household is 55 or over.
How much does it cost to live in a 55+ community in Florida? ›Looking specifically at Florida, the average monthly cost of assisted living in 2021 is $3,811, according to data from Genworth.
Who can live in over 55 housing NSW? ›- Be 55 or older.
- Live in NSW or the ACT.
- Be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident.
- Be able to live on your own (with or without support)
- Not own a property that you could live in.
- Meet the income limits for the program you apply for (these are reviewed every year).
That will give you the 64/4 rule (80/20 times 80/20) which tells you that two thirds (64 percent) of your results come from just 4% of your most effective time.
Does the 80/20 rule still apply? ›Although the 80-20 rule is frequently used in business and economics, you can apply the concept to any field. Wealth distribution, personal finance, spending habits, and even infidelity in personal relationships can all be the subject of the 80-20 rule.
What is the Medicare 80/20 rule? ›The 80/20 Rule generally requires insurance companies to spend at least 80% of the money they take in from premiums on health care costs and quality improvement activities. The other 20% can go to administrative, overhead, and marketing costs. The 80/20 rule is sometimes known as Medical Loss Ratio, or MLR.
What do gold shoes mean in The Villages? ›According to one Buzzfeed report, sticking a loofah on your golf cart antenna signals that you're into swinging. So does wearing a red button or gold shoes. Letting your shirt tag stick out tells people that you're open for business. 'Every night is Saturday night in The Villages.
Do both spouses have to be 55 to live in The Villages? ›The second of the 55+ community rules pertains to the remaining members of the household—spouses, partners, and children. In most cases, the minimum ages for other residents are set at 40 for a spouse or partner, and 18 for a child.
Can anyone live in The Villages? ›
There are only a few hundred kids between the ages of 0 and 18 years old living in The Villages, making up about 1% of the population. Due to the 55+ lifestyle and amenities that cater to seniors, The Villages isn't generally seen as a place for families to live.
How can a disabled person live? ›- Talk to a mental health professional.
- Try prayer/meditation.
- Join a disability support group.
- Talk to your friends and family.
The short answer is, yes: Many people with developmental disabilities do achieve enough independence to live on their own, often with help from professionals who visit and assist where needed.
What are the 4 principles of independent living? ›Lots of people have made definitions of independent living. They all focus on a few key concepts: choice, control, freedom, equality.
WHat is the difference between Sun City and Del Webb? ›WHat's the difference between del Webb and Sun City? Del Webb builds retirement communities for those 55 and older. Larger Del Webb communities that feature a golf course and a greater array of amenities earn the name Sun City. Del Webb is a pioneer in building homes and communities for active 55+ adults.
Can children live in Sun City? ›At least one occupant of each residential unit must be 55 years of age or older and no person under 19 years of age shall occupy or reside in a residential unit for more than 90 days in any 12-month period. The Sun City Home Owners Association is responsible for enforcing the age restrictions.
How old do you have to be to live in Sun City Summerlin? ›A:Please note when considering purchasing or renting in Sun City Summerlin: Sun City Summerlin is a age qualified community and one (1) member of the family residing in each Sun City Summerlin residence must be fifty-five (55) year of age or older and no person eighteen (18) years of age or under shall reside In a ...
Who qualifies for senior subsidized housing in Texas? ›Typically, a senior designated LIHTC community will have a minimum age of 55 or 62. This may vary if the LIHTC community is also using another housing program. Most LIHTC community residents must have a limited income, usually 60 percent of the area median (mid-point) income.
How do income based apartments work in Texas? ›HUD determines the monthly rent of an approved income-based apartment home by calculating 30% of the tenant's adjusted gross income. The government subsidizes the remainder of the rent for the landlord.
Why do 55+ communities exist? ›The minimum age is frequently set at 55 years old, but it can vary. These communities are set up to accommodate older individuals who would like to live in an area without the perceived problems of having children around.
Is 55 officially a senior citizen? ›
In the United States it is generally considered that a senior citizen is anyone of retirement age, or a person that has reached age 62 or older.
Is 55 years old considered a senior citizen? ›As such, being a senior citizen may be based on your age, but it is not a specific age. In general, however, once you turn 55 you start to enter the senior age demographic. By the time you are 65 you reach the most common age for retirement from your job.
What is considered old age for a woman? ›When are we considered old? For women, the old age threshold is about 73; for men, 70. Scherbov layers his concept of prospective age with another quality, which he calls “characteristic aging.”
What determines the effective age of a property? ›The effective age is calculated using the total of the percentages of the areas multiplied by the year built of that same area.
What age can you move into a retirement village? ›Commonly retirement villages will have an age criteria of either 70 or 75 years however some allow entry at 65 or even 60 years.
What determines the age of a house? ›Local town, county, or state tax records usually indicate the date or year a building was constructed. Historical real estate listings may include indications of building age. Census records can prove that a house was present at the time the census was taken.
What is the difference between over 55 and retirement village? ›Despite the various ownership structures and names used, the key difference between over 55 communities and retirement villages is with the loan, licence or lease arrangement. For over 55 communities, the agreement is over the land. In retirement villages, the agreement is over the building.
Can you love in a 55+ community? ›The short answer is yes, but it will depend on specific circumstances and the community's guidelines. The two most common situations are if a spouse does not meet the age requirement, or if there's an adult child (over 18) moving with you.
What can over 55s get? ›- 55+
- Cheap cinema tickets. Although money may be a bit tighter, that doesn't mean you have to stop enjoying yourself. ...
- 60+ Free bus pass. ...
- Senior railcard. ...
- Free prescriptions. ...
- Free NHS sight tests. ...
- 65+
- Winter fuel payment.
At least 80 percent of occupied unites in a 55+ community must have at least one person living there who is over 55. This leaves the other 20 percent of the community's units available for people of any age, creating the “80/20 Rule.”
Can I live with my mom in a 55+ community? ›
Can Kids Live with Parents in 55+ Communities? Yes, as long as your child is over 18 and at least one member of the household is 55 or older. However, there are exceptions to this rule, typically on a community-by-community basis.
What are the disadvantages of living in a 55+ community? ›The disadvantages of retirement communities include they aren't cheap, could be in a less than an optimal location, smaller living area, lack of diversity, cliques/gossip and restrictive/excessive rules. They can range from condo/apartment style facilities to gated communities with individual houses.
Can you live in The Villages if you are under 55? ›Is The Villages a city or town? The Villages is an active adult community dedicated to people 55 and over. The Villages is a master-planned community, which means it is a residential area with a large number of recreational and commercial amenities.
Can someone younger than 55 live in 55+ communities in Florida? ›Additionally, a family member who is younger than 55 may buy and live in a unit with someone who meets the age requirement. Moreover, a homebuyer who wishes to purchase a home in a 55+ community for a parent who meets the age guidelines can do so.
How much money do I need to live in The Villages? ›Now, after crunching numbers for all of the expenses listed above, you should expect to pay at least $807 to $1,262 per month to live in The Villages, Florida, based on your housing selection and the costs that come with it.
What is the cheapest way to live in retirement? ›- Stick to a Budget. ...
- Plan for Healthcare Costs. ...
- Cut Your Housing Costs. ...
- Pay Yourself. ...
- Move to a Lower Cost Area. ...
- Forgo Eating Out. ...
- Hire a Financial Advisor. ...
- Reassess Your Insurance Needs.
Public housing is managed by DCJ while community housing is managed by non-government organisations. Aboriginal housing is specifically for Aboriginal people and these properties are managed by DCJ or community housing providers, including Aboriginal community housing providers.
Can you rent in retirement village in NSW? ›A retirement village can include accommodation in rooms, apartments, units or homes. You can either rent or buy the property.
What are the rules for a 55+ community in Florida? ›At least 80% of the occupied units are occupied by at least one person 55 years of age or older. The facility or community publishes and adheres to policies and procedures that demonstrate its intent to in fact be a provider of housing for older persons.
How much does it cost to live in a 55+ community in Florida? ›Looking specifically at Florida, the average monthly cost of assisted living in 2021 is $3,811, according to data from Genworth.
What is the newest 55 community in Florida? ›
Valencia Walk at Riverland is one of the newest 55+ communities on Florida's East Coast. Located in Port St. Lucie, Valencia Walk brings together GL Homes' famous 55+ resort-style living with an amazing master site plan to create a Florida lifestyle that's second-to-none!
What is Hopa in Florida? ›HOPA amends the Fair Housing Act as follows: eliminates the requirement that qualified housing for persons age 55 or older have "significant facilities and services" designed for the elderly.
What are the disadvantages of living in a 55 plus community? ›The disadvantages of retirement communities include they aren't cheap, could be in a less than an optimal location, smaller living area, lack of diversity, cliques/gossip and restrictive/excessive rules. They can range from condo/apartment style facilities to gated communities with individual houses.
Can you love in a 55+ community? ›The short answer is yes, but it will depend on specific circumstances and the community's guidelines. The two most common situations are if a spouse does not meet the age requirement, or if there's an adult child (over 18) moving with you.
Does Florida have low income housing for seniors? ›Affordable Senior Housing Communities – Housing & Residences in South Florida. Catholic Housing Management currently operates (17) subsidized communities for active, independent seniors with limited financial resources in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
How much money do I need to live in The Villages? ›Now, after crunching numbers for all of the expenses listed above, you should expect to pay at least $807 to $1,262 per month to live in The Villages, Florida, based on your housing selection and the costs that come with it.
Is a 55+ community a good investment? ›Retirement communities are a good investment for buyers who are comfortable with the risks inherent to investing in real estate and willing to educate themselves about this specific market niche. Like any other investment, investing in retirement communities may not suit everyone.
What are the advantages of living in a 55 plus community? ›Low-Maintenance Living
Homes within 55+ communities are designed with you in mind, with floorplans and features that accommodate active adults and contribute to a low-maintenance lifestyle. You'll maintain your independence while not having to worry about yard work and exterior maintenance of the home.
It is for these many reasons, Venice is ranked #1 on our list of top 5 retirement communities in Florida. The "Sunshine State" certainly has some of the top places in the country for retirees.
Where is the most affordable place in Florida to retire? ›- Boynton Beach. Boynton Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Florida. ...
- Sarasota. Sarasota is in Florida's southwest coastal region. ...
- St. Petersburg. ...
- Delray Beach. Delray Beach offers 39 active adult communities. ...
- Ocala. ...
- Lakeland. ...
- Fort Myers. ...
- Jacksonville.
What age is legally considered elderly in Florida? ›
(a) “Senior citizen” means a person who is 60 years of age or older.
Who qualifies for assisted living in Florida? ›General Requirements.To be eligible for the Florida Assisted Living for the Elderly Waiver, a person needs to be 65 years or older or aged 60 64 years and disabled (according to the Social Security standards). The applicant also needs to be a resident of Florida as well as a US citizen.
What does unverified Hopa mean? ›Yes- Unverified: HOPA community not verified to be Bona Fide with the state.