Here are some frequently asked questions… and real answers!

We know that the move from your own home to anywhere else can feel daunting. We also know that you probably have a heap of questions about making that move. In this article, we provide you with answers—unbiased, just-the-facts-ma’am sort of answers. Whether you’re considering Prime Carolina Coast, another 55+ community, or you’re not yet ready to make a decision, our team is committed to helping everyone we meet make the right decision for their particular situation.

Your New Home for the Holidays

Also referred to as independent living, active senior living communities cater to people aged 55 and older who value their autonomy while seeking an engaging, fulfilling lifestyle. These communities offer a range of personalized services, which may vary from place to place but usually include: Three meals a day, housekeeping service, all-inclusive maintenance, and planned activities on and off-site. 

In these active communities, you can generally choose from a number of apartment sizes and layouts, and most include a full kitchen, giving you the option of cooking in or heading to the communal dining room for meals.

What exactly is an active senior community?

What’s your idea of a good time? Some of our community is all about the outdoors, and you’ll find them at the beach year round, shell searching or watching the waves, or down at the dog park, or planning a trip to Brookgreen Gardens. If you’d rather spend an afternoon in, we have poker games and tournaments, bridge games, history clubs and veterans groups, Bible studies, and fitness classes.

And when you’re ready to let down your hair, you won’t want to miss our legendary karaoke nights, which are (as the kids say) LIT. We also have a plethora of cultural events each month, many at local Coastal Carolina University, so they’re not only incredibly entertaining, they’re also quite affordable.

Why would someone choose a 55+ community over a traditional apartment?

While many older adults downsize to a traditional apartment, many more are choosing independent living communities to make life easier—and just as importantly, to start a new chapter. In a traditional apartment community, your neighbors are varied, from college students and singles to families and retirees. In an independent living community, though, you’re surrounded by peers. And in a community designed for active older adults, the social calendar is usually chock full of activities, from special interest clubs to sporting event outings. It’s a little like built-in friendship insurance—you’re sure to find people who aren’t just the same age as you, but who share similar experiences and interests.

Why would someone choose a 55+ community over a life plan community?

Usually, the reasons someone would choose a 55+ community over a life plan community are cost and the desire for long-term flexibility. When you look at life plan communities, you’ll see they offer the full continuum of care, from independent living that looks a lot like a 55+ community all the way to nursing care and rehab and, oftentimes, memory care. 

It’s often cost prohibitive to choose a life plan community, though. For the millions of Americans who are reaching retirement age, the cost to benefit may not add up. They require a substantial entrance fee, which can range from hundreds of thousands to over a million dollars. Then, there’s also a monthly fee to cover living expenses, utilities, and access to higher care levels. 

Life plan communities may be worthwhile for older adults who can both afford the costs and are looking for a comprehensive environment as they age. But for many who are nearing retirement, the relatively new concept of active adult communities provides an attractive alternative. These communities don’t require a huge buy-in, offer a lower monthly cost, and still provide the social and practical benefits of a retirement community.

What are the benefits of living in a 55+ community?

Here are 10 benefits to living in an active senior community:

1. Residents live in their own comfortable and well-equipped apartments, ranging in size to accommodate different budgets. 
2. Meals are provided, and offer flexibility in choices. Many residents choose to eat with friends in a communal setting most of the time, while also cooking on their own for certain meals or occasions. 
3. Active older adults who move to a 55+ community suddenly have the time and flexibility to do what they really want to do, as they no longer have to worry about unexpected bills, maintenance, and repairs. 
4. Budgeting gets a lot easier with one monthly bill that’s truly all inclusive, from WiFi to utilities. 
5. State-of-the-art facilities typically include common areas, game and recreational spaces, aquatic treadmills or pools, fitness centers, movie theaters, and plenty of green space. Many also allow pets!
6. Goodbye, loneliness. Active senior communities mean neighbors who share your life experiences, remember the good old days, and have a lot of the same interests that you have. 
7. Active senior communities are generally located conveniently close to shopping, hospitals, restaurants, and outdoor attractions. Most provide transportation on a regular basis to popular destinations. 
8. Safety is a priority, with 24-hour concierge service, access to health care on-site, alarm systems, and emergency plans. 
9. Holistic health and wellness is valued, and that includes physical wellbeing, but also mental and spiritual health. From yoga classes and strength training to grief talks and Bible study, you can pursue your best self. 
10. Flexible lease terms mean you can make the moves that are right for you when you want to make them. There’s no large buy-in, you can explore other options, and you’re not locked into a community for the rest of your life. Your life, your call. 

What do I need to look for in a 55+ community?

Making any move is a big decision, and the best 55+ communities understand that and will provide you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your unique situation. At Prime Communities, we encourage you to ask the hard questions. Look for transparency, integrity, and honesty. Here are some to get you started as you look at your options:

1. Fees: What are the monthly fees, and what do they include? What is excluded from the monthly fees?
2. Meals: What’s the meal plan like? Is there flexibility in dining times and food options? Does the staff take recommendations from residents? Can I see a menu? What dining options are available nearby?
3. Amenities: What amenities are on site? Is there a fitness center, library, theater, etc?
4. Social activities: Are classes offered? Do you have an events and activities calendar I can look at? What are the most popular activities here? 
5. Resident involvement: Are residents involved in the community decision-making process? How can residents contribute to events and decisions?
6. Pet policy: Are pets allowed? What are the restrictions? Is there green space for walking dogs?
7. Security features: What security measures are in place?
8. Atmosphere: How does the community encourage a sense of connection and belonging? How does the neighborhood welcome new residents?
9. Healthcare: What healthcare services are available? What is the local healthcare system like? 
10. Family involvement: Can friends or family join me at events? Are visitors allowed overnight?
11. Floor plans and maintenance: What options are available, and is WiFi and utilities included? Is housekeeping available?
12. Spiritual: What spiritual events are onsite? Are there religious services or groups nearby?

Is Conway a good place to retire?

Conway’s a great option for retirement for those looking to balance cost of living with quality of life. It offers the perfect mix of peaceful small-town living and easy access to the vibrant Myrtle Beach area, just 15 miles away. Here, you can shop, dine, and take in shows. The mild, inviting climate means you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, whether you’re exploring the beautiful Waccamaw River or strolling through the breathtaking Brookgreen Gardens. 

And of course, there are endless opportunities for golf lovers, with the Wild Wing Plantation’s 27-hole course and more than 100 other courses nearby. We’d love to introduce you to Conway, where you’ll find an absolutely perfect combo: excellent climate, low cost, and Southern culture. 

This all sounds wonderful. How do I know if Prime Carolina Coast is right for me?

Do you believe retirement is about more than living? To Prime Carolina Coast, it’s about thriving and exploring, making meaningful and long-lasting connections, and wringing every bit of joy out of your retirement. It’s about living well. 

Everything about Prime Carolina Coast—our first-class apartments, our welcoming common areas, our activities, and our experienced staff—is geared toward you. Our on-site facilities are varied and purpose-built, so you don’t even have to step out to enjoy yourself. Start your day with a fitness class or a walk on the aquatic treadmill. Challenge your friends to pickleball. Enjoy chef-prepared meals at times that are convenient for you. Share a laugh over coffee and ice cream. We’ve got bridge and poker games, history clubs, and karaoke nights you won’t forget.

And even with everything we offer our residents, what truly makes our community special are the people. Here, you’ll find not only neighbors but also true friends who welcome you with open arms. It’s this sense of belonging and genuine care that sets us apart; if you’re looking to become a part of something special, you’ve found it. 

If you’re ready to explore worry-free retirement in Conway, give us a call. We would love to meet you!