Columbia is Calling

Older adults of today are choosing different living options than the generations before them. Not everyone is thinking about retiring in a warm climate or on a golf resort. This new 55 and older age group is searching for something more vital, more intellectually stimulating and energetic. Thus, the newest wave in senior living is in university towns all over America. NBC News recently reported that more and more college alumni are returning to college towns for this very reason. NBC noted that the first college retirement communities opened about 20 years ago, but the idea has really spread in the last three or four years. Today there are at least 50 such developments near campuses around the country. People are living longer lives and they often want to be in a place that is culturally exciting and intellectually stimulating.   Retirees are attracted to college town senior living communities because they offer affordable living options while utilizing the plentiful activities the University has to offer. Think of this as a new energetic trend in Senior Housing that focuses on lifestyle, entertainment and recreation. The community of The Village of Bedford Walk was specifically chosen to be placed in southern Columbia, near the campus but also close to excellent health care, grocery stores, pharmacies and restaurants. Columbia offers fantastic parks, walking trails, art studios, music venues, a symphony and specialty shops. Moreover, this city is the economic heart of mid-Missouri. Columbia, Missouri is not only home to the University of Missouri, but also to Stephens College and Columbia College. This fine city can also boast two satellite community colleges (Moberly and Missouri Methodist). Older adults are attracted to the intellectual appeal of life around different generations and enrichment with ample mental inspiration. Jim Davis was quoted from the NBC News article as saying, “It was the best decision we ever made.” This was in regard to his recent move from a gated North Carolina golf course community to his alma mater, Pennsylvania State University. It took him more than 50 years to find his way back, but he is delighted that he found his way eventually. JES Prime Senior Living understands that this is not just a growing trend, but rather, a norm for the future. People want to go back to places they know, or stay in a community they love. Columbia has a youthful state of mind, and it is calling to all ages. To keep in touch with what is happening in the Columbia community, The Village of Bedford Walk and the Senior Living world subscribe to our monthly newsletter by clicking the link below.