Depends on the community. Some are really good. I'm in a 55+ low income apartment complex, with mostly much older and disabled folks. At 57 I'm among the young 'uns. This place used to have a unified sense of community with activities, but all that changed dramatically after the economy collapsed in 2008. Lots more problem residents now - aging folks with substance abuse issues, mental disorders, ex-cons. But they need a safe place to live too and aren't dangerous, just a pain in the neck.

Some of my neighbors are fine, but there's a lot of negativity. I avoid the coffee klatsch gossip cliques and stick with the handful of positive folks who, like me, have no real reason to be optimistic but refuse to get old.

Exercise helps. I walk, but can't carry much weight on my shoulders due to back and neck injuries. So I just added a bike to the transportation options for short local errands. Just finished my second ride this evening, after a more than 14 year I-hate-us.

Feels good. Think I'll keep it up.