What Are the Best Active Adult Communities in Central PA? 

For many, active adult communities are the perfect path to retirement. They give you complete independence while offering community connections and support. They simplify your life by covering many homeowner responsibilities, from trash removal to repairs. Perhaps most importantly, they offer a host of amenities to support a fit, healthy lifestyle from age 55 onward. 

Central PA is among the most desirable locations for retirees and health enthusiasts. The area offers many active adult communities with amenities that help you stay fit and engage with like-minded people. 

These places have become increasingly popular, and the active adult community market size is expected to reach $805 billion by 2030. It could be your perfect living space if you’re interested in health and wellness.

What Are Active Adult Communities?

Active adult communities are residential areas specifically designed for people aged 55 and up. They provide a healthy, tailored environment for adults on the path to retirement, offering a mix of condominiums, freestanding homes or apartment-style buildings. 

Many of these communities have specific age requirements so they can tailor their services and amenities to their target communities. They often target the 55-and-over demographic and offer different levels of health care for people at various stages of their lives. These models can range from assisted living to resort-style to independent homeowner models.

The Benefits of Joining an Active Adult Community in PA

If you want to simplify your life and take advantage of your retirement, an active adult community could be your solution. Some of the many benefits they offer include: 

• Independent living: As a resident of an active adult community, you can live life on your terms. Many of these communities offer small, simple living alternatives for easy maintenance. You can interact with others on your terms and tailor a lifestyle that suits your needs. 

• Sense of community: These cultivated communities offer a sense of belonging, which is essential for many. You’ll live in a neighborhood with people roughly the same age as you. A sense of community is associated with reduced depression, anxiety and stress. 

• Recreation and activities: Active adult communities allow you to make social connections. You have plenty of activities to choose from, so you take up new hobbies with like-minded people and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. 

• Maintenance-free lifestyle: Living in an active adult community means enjoying a neighborhood’s benefits without the stress of maintenance and home upkeep. You no longer need to worry about fixing major appliances, roofing and other tasks. 

• Health care support: Many active adult communities are part of broad senior living setups, offering support like professional nursing and easy transitions to advanced care. 

• Positive life balance: Most active adult communities begin at age 55, so you can enjoy the benefits of community living while maintaining your lifestyle. You can work, cultivate an active social life, volunteer, and fulfill your other obligations while enjoying the amenities and benefits. 

Methodology for Selecting the Best Active Adult Communities in Central PA

While many active adult communities offer similar benefits and amenities, choosing the perfect environment for your needs can be challenging. One approach is to compare them and see which fits your lifestyle best. Consider the following: 

• Location: Consider the location of your potential community in relation to your family and health care facility. If you’re still working, proximity to your workplace could be crucial. If retirement is on the horizon, consider where you want to retire and whether the surrounding area meets your requirements. 

• Amenities: Active adult communities offer various on-site facilities and amenities. Some provide numerous options, while others focus on simple social gatherings. Consider what you want from your community. You can make a wish list of activities and facilities and choose an option that meets those needs. 

• Community culture: One of your most important considerations is whether the community’s culture fits you. Visit your options regularly, have lunch there and get a feel for whether they fit. 

• Health care access: Active adult communities offer different levels of health care. Some provide on-site clinics and trained nurses, others have home care options and some just offer transport to the nearest hospital. Consider your health needs now and in the near future. From there, you can find a community that provides what you need. 

Key Features of Active Adult Communities — A Comparison

Sometimes, the easiest way to find the perfect active adult community is to line them up and compare them. The following table outlines some of the best active adult communities in PA, their amenities and other important information: 

	Location	Health Amenities	Social Activities	Accessibility	Health Care Access
Fernecrest	New Cumberland, PA	Fitness studio, Yellow Breeches Creek fishing and hiking trails, vitality and wellness center	Regular events, lounge-style restaurant and cafe Pathways Institute of Lifelong Learning®	A short shuttle ride away from Messiah Village Campus	Messiah Lifeways Continuum of Care, enhanced living, skilled nursing, transitional care and home care options
Bethany Village	Mechanicsburg, PA	Disc and mini golf courses, fitness center with indoor heated pool, massage room and spa	Billiards room, brain health program, woodworking, crafts, chapel and restaurants	Walkable layout	Assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, skilled nursing and on-site pharmacy
Hershey Mill Villages and Golf Club	West Chester, PA	Paved walking trails, community pool, sports complex with yoga, golf and tennis, dog exercise area	Community center for group activities and special events, community garden	Adjacent to the suburban main line	Convenient access to hospitals
Canvas Valley Forge	King of Prussia, PA	Fitness center, outdoor pool and various classes	Regular events, seminars, group activities, live entertainment and community meals	Central, easy access	Convenient access to hospitals
The Villas at Five Ponds	Warminster, PA	Outdoor pool and other amenities	Regular events, clubs and community meals	Central, easy access	Convenient access to hospitals
Amblebrook Gettysburg	Gettysburg, PA	Fitness center, outdoor and indoor pools, wellness center, pickleball and basketball courts	Large clubhouse, craft studio, bar, theater, game room and communal kitchen	Central, easy access	Convenient access to hospitals
The Reserve at Gwynedd	West Point, PA	Exercise room, indoor and outdoor pools	Billiards, card rooms, clubhouses, libraries and community areas.	Central, easy access	Convenient access to hospitals

7 Top Active Adult Communities in Central PA

If you’re looking for active adult communities in Pennsylvania, look no further. Here’s an in-depth list of some of the area’s most luxurious, multifaceted options: 

1. Fernecrest 

Fernecrest offers cottages and apartments. You can enjoy the community from a courtyard home, duplex or estate home. Choose an option that suits your needs and space requirements. While you participate in the many community events, you can relax and be confident that Messiah Lifeways’ continuum of care is there when needed.

This luxurious community also offers enhanced living — the ideal option if you want to maintain a private living space but require assistance with daily activities. Visit the Center for Vitality and Wellness for classes with a personal trainer, take a dip in the indoor pool and enjoy casual fine dining at the spacious community tables. Join one of Fernecrest’s information sessions to learn more about joining this robust, cohesive community. 

2. Asbury Bethany Village

Asbury Bethany Village offers various vibrant retirement living options. You can choose from apartments, cottages and estate homes and enjoy a strong sense of community with your neighbors. Stroll around the 184-acre campus, enjoy golf and spend time in the fitness center. You can also participate in the many workshops and programs, including gardening, model railroad club and crafting.

This active adult community offers on-site conveniences, including a bank, pharmacy and hair salon. Residents can live confidently, knowing they have access to robust health care services. 

3. Hershey’s Mill

Nestled within almost 800 acres of rolling countryside, Hershey’s Mill is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy robust, 24-hour security while navigating paved walking trails or cycling opportunities. You can also choose from over 35 activities and clubs, including yoga, bridge and book clubs. 

Enjoy the heated outdoor pool or socialize by the deck when you feel like some downtime. The community garden is an excellent place to relax, and the Hershey’s Mill sports complex has courts for tennis, bocce, pickleball and more. 

4. Canvas Valley Forge

Canvas Valley Forge offers a crafted lifestyle experience program that allows you to follow your passions. You can choose from many activities, including art, fitness and intellectual pursuits. Participate in group fitness classes, such as strength training, aerobics and yoga, or take a dip in the community’s pool. Sports lovers will enjoy playing a round of golf or engaging in a game of bocce.

You can also participate in various social events on the property, including seminars and classes. Meet up with friends at happy hours and community meals. Then, you can retire to your one-, two- or three-bedroom apartment to watch the sunset from your private balcony. 

5. The Villas at Five Ponds

Enjoy independent living at the Villas at Five Ponds. Stroll through the manicured lawns, swim in the outdoor heated pool or participate in one of the many community events. There are various organizations to join, including a cooking club, lunch bunch and singles club. The caterer’s kitchen can provide refreshments for planned events.

This charming venue is conveniently located close to many local gems, including Buck’s County markets and wineries. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit local casinos, theaters and more.

6. Amblebrook Gettysburg

Amblebrook at Gettysburg is an active adult community with many housing options to suit your lifestyle. This gorgeous location boasts a fishing pond, dog park, walking trails and amenities. 

The 24,000-square-foot Rock Creek Clubhouse offers cooking classes, board games, a learning center and more. The fitness center has a full gym, indoor and outdoor pools, and a luxurious spa. There is also a market on-site, so you can purchase local goods and enjoy convenient activities around the corner from your home. 

7. Reserve at Gwynedd

Reserve at Gwynedd offers a range of freestanding homes for sale. You can settle in a quaint yet vibrant community with various activities and sports, including a billiards room, indoor and outdoor pools, and a library. Residents can participate in many activities, from cycling to music to singles clubs.

There are many places to relax and mingle with other residents, including the clubhouse, fireplace living room and patio. Various clubs cater to your interests, such as a book club, singing group, card games and pickleball. 

Active Adult Community FAQ

You likely have some questions if you’re considering an active adult community. The following answers could provide the information you need: 

1. What types of health and wellness programs are available in active adult communities? Each community offers its own range of programs. Some common options include swimming pools, fitness classes, hiking trails and spas. 

2. How do active adult communities ensure easy access to health care services? Many communities have health care facilities on-site, but they all have emergency transportation options on call. 

3. Can residents receive in-home health care? Many active adult communities in Central PA prioritize resident health by offering comprehensive in-home care services. These range from wellness checks to more intensive nursing care, ensuring your unique health needs are met. If you’re experiencing challenges, look for active adult communities that offer nursing and health services. 

4. How do active adult communities promote social interaction among residents? Many of these communities offer numerous clubs and activities to suit each individual. They also focus on events that allow people to get to know each other in a casual setting. 

5. How do active adult communities improve your quality of life compared to traditional housing options? Active adult communities eliminate many stresses associated with owning a home, like repairs, maintenance and garbage removal. They also give you access to a host of health and wellness amenities conveniently located close to your home. You have access to a community of like-minded people, which keeps you connected and confident. 

Active Adult Communities — The Healthy Way to Approach Retirement

The active adult communities above stand out in PA for several reasons. They take a proactive approach to health care and offer a range of amenities that differentiate them from the crowd. You’ll likely experience a sense of connection like never before if you move to one of these communities. 

Active adult communities allow you to try new hobbies and create relationships with new people, all while putting your health and wellness first. Enjoy an enhanced lifestyle and embrace your road to retirement.