Feb 18 2008
It's the ultimate irony -- the Woodstock generation is about to head off to retirement communities. And just like they did with popular culture, the nation's 76 million baby boomers are prepared to revolutionize that world too.
John Brady of http://www.Topretirements.com says baby boomers want communities that reflect their self-image. "Even though they might be entering retirement," he says, "they see themselves as relatively young. So boomers look for activities they can relate to, plenty of entertainment and culture, and the option to walk or bike."
For many, college classes and environmental sustainability are important. But unlike their parents, anything that smacks of "old," including marketing appeals addressed to "seniors," spells disaster.
Some marketers think they are ready for the boomer onslaught. They pitch their developments as youthful, using terms like "active adult," "55 and better," etc. In many cases they ignore any references to age altogether. They package housing and activities sure to appeal to boomers, especially leisure, luxury, or the active lifestyle.
Unlike their parents, the "60's generation" prefers to search online for the best places to retire. Thousands of baby boomers visit Topretirements.com every week for objective reviews of the best places to retire, as well as for practical insight on how to choose the best retirement community. These visitors are engaged, computer-savvy, and ready to buy in an over 55 community -- if the appeal is baby boomer-appropriate.
Topretirements -- "Find your perfect retirement community" -- has independent reviews of the best retirement towns and communities in the U.S., Canada, Costa Rica, and Mexico. Visitors can download a free eBook: "The "Baby Boomers Guide to Choosing the Perfect Community - 16 Factors You Need to Consider" (http://www.topretirements.com/Ebookdownloadguest.html).
This practical 48 page guide explains 16 key selection factors along with checklists.
Topretirements also has a new tool that for marketers of active adult communities. The site's "Add Your Community" (http://www.topretirements.com/Community.html) tool permits communities to list their properties in the site's extensive online directory. After filling in a few simple facts, the community will be seen by thousands of prospects looking for active communities. There is no charge for basic listings.