Eighty-five percent of residents living in independent retirement communities come from single family homes. Many have had little experience living in a college dormitory or apartment style setting. A move to a large retirement community with 200 or more residents can be very intimidating, especially for a single person.

Large buildings with long, overwhelming corridors can often have an institutional feel. The impression can leave one with a cold and impersonal feeling. Large complexes may also have more rules and regulations contributing to a loss of freedom and control of your life.  There has been a trend from developing large traditional complexes towards smaller retirement communities.

The initial anxiety associated with a move from a single family home into a smaller community may be lessened.  With fewer residents, smaller buildings seem to have a family-like and supportive environment. Chances are that the management and staff know the names and interests of each resident, their families and friends.