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Full-timing: a housing alternative for older people
1National Council on Seniors Housing, National Association of Homebuilders, Washington, D.C. 20005.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Full-timing, or living in a recreational vehicle year-round, offers a low-cost, adventurous lifestyle for older adults. Many retirees are embracing this mobile housing alternative indefinitely.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Lifestyle Studies
Background:
- Conventional housing costs and societal mobility present challenges for older adults.
- Recreational vehicle (RV) living, or full-timing, is emerging as an alternative housing solution.
- The unique needs and preferences of older adults in mobile living are increasingly relevant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore full-timing as a viable housing alternative for the aging population.
- To understand the motivations and experiences of older adults engaged in full-time RV living.
- To assess the suitability of the full-timing lifestyle for seniors in a mobile society.
Main Methods:
- Surveys were distributed to 100 members of a national camping organization.
- Data collection focused on respondents' experiences with year-round recreational vehicle living.
- Analysis included duration of full-time living and future intentions.
Main Results:
- 55% of respondents had lived in their RVs for at least two years.
- A majority had sold conventional homes, intending to full-time indefinitely.
- Full-timing was characterized as low-cost and adventurous by participants.
Conclusions:
- Full-timing in recreational vehicles is a practical and appealing housing option for older individuals.
- This lifestyle choice aligns with the increasing mobility and desire for cost-effective living among seniors.
- Full-timing presents a viable and fulfilling alternative to traditional housing for the aging demographic.