The twilight years, mother nature’s insidious equalizer, creep upon all members of the human race – in the twinkling of an eye. Each generation – passing through so many phrases of human development – lands one day, sometimes unsuspectingly, at the yawning gape of the senior years. While youthful concerns and past priorities may fade, new choices rise to the forefront. One of the top items on the agenda for those approaching retirement is: Where to retire?

We at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club will explore the questions facing the graying generation. Choosing a Place to Retire.

Where To?

Location is sometimes the prime motivator for people heading to retirement. While warm climates – such as Florida and Arizona – have been big draws, retirees are looking for more comfortable surroundings with more hospitable environments. The Sunshine State’s mild temperatures are one big reason why Florida rose to become the nation’s third largest state, topping New York in 2010.

Florida’s tropical environment, gentle winters and easy access to waterways (and two oceans) make it very attractive. Older adults should carefully examine their preferences and ask themselves some important questions before making the final decision. Are you looking for the country life? How about the urban scene? What kind of access do you have to shopping, medical facilities, recreation and other infrastructure? And how far do you want to drive to these services?

Age Before Beauty

Many regions boast of offering availability of age-restricted communities. Communities that cater to older adults – for example, more than 55 years old – might be more conducive to the tastes and preferences of older adults. It allows for age-gauged peer interactions. However, age-restricted communities might not be as open to allowing younger people – such as grandchildren – open access to amenities, such as pools, golf courses, recreational centers and other public venues.

Some more youthful retirees might have difficulty finding age-appropriate golf partners. Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club is an excellent choice for all ages and offers a wide array of activities suitable for all tastes and levels. It is not a retirement but includes all ages of residents.

Should I Stay or Should I Go Now?

Florida has a large seasonal residential population. Called snowbirds (or sunbirds), seasonal residents spend part of the year, usually the winter, in Florida and the other part in their home state. Brutal winters of the northern states often turn chilly hearts to the south. But maintaining two homes can be challenging.

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club has a full-time division dedicated to helping residents rent their homes and professionally manage their care in their absence. What makes Florida great – especially living in Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club – is that friends and relatives (remember the grandchildren) enjoy coming down south to visit.
Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club has a Stay and Play program where prospective residents can “try out” living here.

What Do You Have Going?

A final concern for retirees is the amenities, specifically, fitness centers, golf courses and tennis courts. Welcome to the active life at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. We set a maximum number of golf course memberships that will be sold based around members’ schedule. This ensures that members have an enjoyable golf outing on an uncrowded course no matter the season.

Take a good look at the community’s covenant contracts, rules and regulations. Ask questions; talk to residents. Find out what they think. Go dining at local restaurants. In other words, try on the community first before making the big purchase. Our experienced agents can make sure your golden years are truly golden at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club.

Give us a call at 352-369-6969 and we’ll show you how to discover the “golden” in your golden years.