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It is never too soon to begin learning about your future plans

If you are in your early 60s, you may feel like retirement decisions are still years away. You are active, independent, busy — those thoughts are for another time.

But it may be time to reconsider those assumptions. A recent survey we conducted shows the population of adults ready to retire far exceeds past generations. That means planning now is more important than ever to secure greater freedom and an advantage in finding your best home options — especially within a Life Plan Community, where timing and availability matter.

The demographic shift is real

According to the recent national data highlighted in our survey materials:

Ultimately, this generation is larger and living longer than its predecessors. As a result, demand is quickly outpacing supply. By 2030, the U.S. is projected to face a shortfall of 550,000 housing units. Communities like Capital Manor that provide independent living along with future access to continuing care are already seeing increased demand for proactive planners.

Why early planning makes sense

Research shows that 65 to 75 is the age you will likely need to begin searching if you want to be in a community by 80. In other words, the window for proactive planning is earlier than most people believe.

Additionally, an April 2025 CDC report found that almost 80% of adults ages 65 and older had at least one chronic health condition in 2023. While many conditions are manageable, this statistic reinforces the importance of having a thoughtful plan in place before an unforeseen health event forces a quick decision. A Life Plan Community allows you to establish your home and social network early, with reassurance that higher levels of care are available on campus if ever needed.

Why joining a wait list early is smart

Here are our top five reasons to join a waitlist now rather than waiting until you are ready to move:

Long waitlists

Some waitlists can be five years or longer, so give yourself leeway by putting a deposit down now. Even if you are not ready today, a home will likely become available by the time you are ready.

You will not need to compromise

Giving yourself more time to seek out a life plan community means you will have a greater chance of finding a home that meets your lifestyle, location, care and budgetary checklist. Because Life Plan Communities combine housing, amenities and continuing care in one setting, finding the right fit deserves thoughtful consideration. Planning ahead protects your ability to choose rather than settle.

You will want to acclimate

Joining a waitlist early may position you for an earlier move. Moving in sooner rather than later gives you more time to build meaningful, lasting connections with friends and neighbors — and to fully enjoy the lifestyle designed for active, independent living.

Many senior living communities offer a thoughtful, phased approach to care. Independent living options, such as townhomes, condos or apartments, are ideal for vibrant older adults who want maintenance-free living without sacrificing autonomy. At the same time, you will have peace of mind knowing that, should your needs change, supportive services like assisted living, nursing or palliative care are available within the same trusted community. Planning ahead allows you to settle in while you are thriving, with a clear path forward for whatever the future may bring.

You can enjoy more, earlier

When you begin independent living, you can take advantage of numerous dining experiences, excursions, wellness programs and social opportunities designed to keep you active and engaged. By moving in earlier, you maximize your access to these enriching experiences while you can enjoy them most fully — a hallmark of the Life Plan Community lifestyle, which prioritizes both vibrant living today and confidence about tomorrow.

You will be set for the years to come

If your health changes, you will already be in a place that has staff and resources to support you through different seasons. That is the defining advantage of a Life Plan Community: you are not choosing a home for today, but a comprehensive plan for the years ahead.

The bottom line

The Baby Boomer generation is reshaping retirement and with 10,000 people turning 65 every day, waiting until “someday” may limit your options. Learning about your options now means that when the time feels right, you will be ready.

We encourage interested adults to join our waitlist and reserve their spot, so they are ready to take the next step when the time is right.

Rooted in Salem, Designed for your future

For more than 60 years, Capital Manor has offered a high-quality lifestyle for older adults in the Salem area. As a thriving not-for-profit community and the only true continuing care retirement community within 30 miles of Salem, Capital Manor is proud to be a Life Plan Community — providing residents with both vibrant independent living today and a secure plan for tomorrow.

As a Life Plan Community, Capital Manor offers a full continuum of care on one campus, allowing residents to age in place with confidence. Our 40-acre campus features more than 30 distinct floor plans, including apartments, villas and townhomes. The first step to becoming a resident is the ability to live independently, as our higher levels of care are reserved exclusively for Capital Manor residents. This approach reflects the Life Plan model, ensuring seamless transitions between levels of care while maintaining continuity of relationships, routines and surroundings. Residents also benefit from the peace of mind and financial predictability that come with planning for the future care in advance.

At the same time, life at Capital Manor is about much more than planning for the future. Residents enjoy exceptional dining, outdoor recreation, cultural events, fitness facilities, wellness programs and a wide range of clubs and activities that foster connection with neighbors who share similar interests. As a Life Plan Community, Capital Manor empowers residents to live fully today, with reassurance that tomorrow is thoughtfully planned for.