Modular structures offer choices for retirement living

It’s no secret that millions of baby boomers are retiring every year, increasing the need for retirement-style housing and creating a boom in the assisted living housing market. Whether they move in with family, or choose a retirement community, modular structures are capable of providing a cost-effective solution. 

When retirees move in with family, a single family home can become crowded, quickly! Over the last several years, modular builders have come up with some creative options for multi-generational living. Some modular companies are building standalone units that can be positioned next to a family home. These are often called “ADU’s” or, Accessory Dwelling Units, and can range from 300 to 1,800 square feet (read AARP’s blog “Prefab ‘In-law’ Cottages Mix High-tech Features, Comfort”). Other modular companies are creating multi-generational family homes that include a separate living area for aging parents, including separate entrances. These homes contain entirely separate personal quarters, and a “common area” (here is a good article by the LA Times “Multigenerational homes for modern families”). Modular additions are another option, regardless of how your home was built.

Another choice for many retirees is an assisted living facility or retirement community. Again, modular builders have stepped up to the plate. Palomar Modular, Champion Commercial, Ritz-Craft, Spectrum – these are just a few of the modular builders who are designing and building multi-family structures specifically for the baby-boomer retirees. Modular facilities offers many appealing design options like privacy, a home-like setting, social common areas, the ability to build facilities in urban areas, and more (a good article on the benefits of modular senior living can be found on the BDCNetwork, “10 top design trends in senior living facilities”).

How do you see yourself living in retirement? A separate module near your family, a multi-generational home, or would you prefer a hospitality style senior living facility? Post your comments below, we look forward to hearing your opinions!