The US is aging. Eighteen percent of the population – some 61 million people – is 65 or older, and by 2050, this will reach over 80 million. But age alone is not the main story. That lies in the evolving expectations of seniors, with longer life expectancies and more active, vital lifestyles. With the mindset that life doesn’t stagnate at this stage but can – and should – mark the start of a new, different chapter.
The majority of Americans believe they can, to some degree, control the physical aspects of aging. They want the same level of control over their housing choices. Independent living communities are designed to do just that. For developers, independent living represents a significant opportunity to meet increasingly voracious demand while creating communities to support lifestyle, connection, and long-term livability.
What Is “Independent Living”?
Independent living communities are one of the fastest-growing segments within the residential market. With occupancy rates over 90% as of late 2025, demand is outpacing supply. But let’s back up: What is independent living?
This is housing designed for older adults (“older” can mean different things to different people, but typically at least 55 years of age) who are able to live independently but prioritize convenience, comfort, accessibility, and social connections. Whether they are empty-nesters looking to downsize or active seniors who want a community designed specifically for their stage of life, residents choose independent living solutions to take advantage of:
- Maintenance-free living
- An accessible environment
- Community amenities (e.g. walking paths, green spaces, outdoor recreation areas, etc.)
- A “neighborhood” feel and opportunities for socialization
It’s important to note that unlike assisted living facilities and nursing homes, independent living communities do not generally provide medical care or assistance for activities of daily life. However, the Hoosier Village in Bedrock’s portfolio does have the full continuum of care.
Demand for senior living development is spurred not only by an aging population but also by changing expectations. Today’s communities redefine the industry and reflect the need for lifestyle-focused housing choices that offer the privacy and comfort of traditional homes, as well as the convenience, simplicity, and comfort of a maintenance-free, amenity-rich, high-quality product.
Developers have an opportunity to create intentionally planned communities that meet the evolving needs – and demands – of a growing demographic.
The New Face of Independent Living
What does independent living look like? It can look like charming cottage-style homes, elegant townhomes, convenient apartment-style units, or efficient duplexes. In other words: It can look like a vibrant neighborhood that is designed specifically for residents who want to maintain an active, independent lifestyle while enjoying the benefits of a planned neighborhood.
Priorities include:
- Accessibility. One of the most important considerations in independent living, accessibility features can include single-level design, wider doorways, flush entries, and open floor plans to allow for maximum mobility and ease of use.
- Low- or no maintenance. Because many residents are downsizing or wish to reduce the onerous demands of ownership as they age, it is critical that communities include maintained common areas, durable exteriors, safe walkways, etc.
- Privacy. Effective independent living communities blend the benefits of a private home with the opportunity to forge and maintain social connections. Shared amenities are critical in creating this balance.
These choices shape communities that are welcoming and sustainable for long-term, active living.
Seizing the Opportunity
Independent living communities are residential, but the strategy underpinning them shares much in common with multifamily development. The ability to balance efficiency, durability, quality, and planning across multiple residences is key, as is careful infrastructure planning, permitting and zoning processes, and coordination with partners and municipal officials.
Bedrock Builders’ roots as custom home builders enables us to bring invaluable insight into how people interact with their spaces, and how each decision impacts everyday life. Our experience in large-scale residential and multifamily development ensures that we can scale your vision to meet the needs of all residents.
The need for independent living solutions in central Indiana, and beyond, is only going to grow. With surging demand and limited supply, the opportunity is there. Not only to meet business goals and objectives, but to provide exceptional experiences for the next chapter.
Connect with Bedrock Builders to learn how we can support your next project.