Activated Adults: Building Resilient Communities for the Active Adult

There are more than 2 billion people in the world over the age of 55 — in America alone, there are 96 million. The Baby Boomer generation has shaped the world in many ways, including the idea of mass customization. When it comes to the aging process, Boomers have made their mark here too.

In 2019, the Urban Land Institute found that Boomers are making – and will continue to make – a significant impact on housing markets and the built environment. ULI studies show that older adults on the cusp of retirement are not necessarily seeking to move to urban environments but are seeking amenity rich communities. Transit-oriented communities that have enough population density to support robust public services, restaurants, and other diverse activities are attractive to the Activated Adult.

It’s clear that older adults are no longer content with inactivity or spending idle time in front of the TV. Today’s older adult has helped create the Active Adult community. Through 4 key areas, the active adult can become the Activated Adult:

• Family + Friends + Socializing
• Food Experience
• Travel
• Health + Wellness

Older adults experience big life changes; children become adults and form families of their own, as careers slow down, and priorities shift to focus on self-fulfillment and individual life goals. It’s critical to engage in a life of connection, fulfillment, and sense of purpose for longevity. Baby Boomers are leading the way in not just retirement, but truly living to the fullest in the later stages of life.

Download the full report here.