A look at retiree-friendly communities in the Triangle

Retirement is the start of a new adventure, and choosing a retirement community can make all the difference in how that adventure plays out. You want a place that supports your independence while helping with any needs that may arise as you age.

Fortunately, with its mild climate, the Triangle is an ideal area to find a retirement community. It is close to both the beach and mountains, offering opportunities for year-round leisure activities.

Because the Triangle has many retirement communities, beginning your research by making a list of what you want will help you whittle down the options. That could include amenities you need in your living space or planned activities that are important to you.

To help, here is a sampling of retiree-friendly communities in the Triangle.

The Village at Brookwood describes itself as having a warm Southern culture. With just over 200 residents, this community offers independent living as well as options to help with health care needs.

“At The Village at Brookwood in Alamance County, we’re a Life Plan Community (also known as a CCRC),” according to the community’s website. “That means you’ll have peace of mind knowing there’s a full continuum of care available right here on campus, including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehab, should you ever need it.”

Carolina Preserve in Cary has multiple options for active older adults. It won the 2019 Community Excellence Award from the Community Associations Institute.

“With 1360 homes, a 35,000 square foot clubhouse, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis, pickleball and bocce courts, indoor and outdoor pools, pottery and dance studios, and over 120 clubs, Carolina Preserve provides residents with an extraordinarily active lifestyle,” according to its website.

Flowers Plantation has 55+ adult communities as well as single-family homes and townhomes.

“Flowers Plantation is like a city within a city,” according to Retirement Resource Guide. “Located in the quaint town of Clayton, Flowers Plantation is situated on more than 3,000 acres in the largest planned community (single family homes, villas, and cottages) in the Research Triangle. The community features 43 neighborhoods with more planned.”

Located near the airport, mall, and shopping centers, Magnolia Glen is conveniently situated. Among other amenities, it prides itself on its cuisine served in inviting dining rooms and its spacious living spaces.

“In addition to our main building offering Independent Living and Licensed Assisted Living we also have charming, spacious cottages — a one-of-a-kind offering in Raleigh,” according to the community’s website. “The campus, with its Arts and Crafts architecture, is beautiful while exuding an ambiance of warmth and sophistication.”

This spacious Harmony at Brookberry Farm community in Winston-Salem offers a maintenance-free lifestyle to older adults.

“All the hours once spent on lawn care, cleaning the gutters, and housework are now yours to enjoy as you wish,” according to the community website. “Catch an afternoon matinee at Hollywood 20 Theatres, or peruse the bargains at the Haywood Mall and the Shops at Green Ridge. Stroll Pelham Mill Park with your dog, or take in the scenery at Falls Park. Cap off the day with a lovely dinner shared with friends and family, and then leave the dishes to us. It’s time for you to celebrate the freedom you have earned.”

Friends and family members may have other suggestions for communities that will fit your goals for retirement, so ask for recommendations, and remember to visit in person before committing to a location.