There are the pros and cons of living in a senior community. I moved to Florida, and immediately bought a condo in a 55+ community. Coming in under the age "rule" of 54, I was still working and not spending much time within the community. I had wonderful neighbors, most of whom where a great deal older, in their 80's. They would ask why I would live in such a community at a young age. One of the reasons was cost. I bought a lovely updated two bedroom condo for a good price, not giving thought to the other residents.
When I moved further north, I decided again to live in a senior community. This time I bought a lovely little manufactured home in a community with residents more age. Again, I continue to work locally. The activities at the "center" were enjoyable and I found myself enjoying karaoke night, bingo and the holiday parties. The pool became a wonderful relaxing place after a day of work.
Problems began when a lovely man moved in across the street from me. He was a widower, still grieving, and we became friends. Friendship led to more and we eventually married. It seemed the community couldn't accept us. For whatever reason, they saw me as a husband "stealer, " ridiculous as that was, since he was widowed.
We moved to a residential community with children and neighbors of all ages. The little girls next door have become a part of our lives, and I can't imagine life without them.
Senior living is not for me, and Florida, while humid nine months out of the year, I've managed to adjust. The sun shine frequently and makes for a "sunny" disposition.