When The Snowbirds Settle: Senior LGBTQ Retirement Development Opens In Palm Springs

When the snows fall in the winter, some folks in our local community decide it’s time to fly south for the winter. Affectionately known as “snowbirds,” these folks are lucky enough to be able to exchange the cold for warmer climates like Florida, Arizona, and the Coachella Valley in California.

And someday — they might decide to roost in these warmer areas permanently.

One such warmer area that’s popular for snowbirds is Palm Springs. For LGBTQ folks looking for a supportive community in this locale, we’re delighted to introduce you to Living Out.

Why LGBTQ Retirement Housing is Essential

Studies show that up to a third of LGBTQ seniors fear having to “re-closet” themselves due to their living situations as they age. Whether that’s because they might have to move in with less understanding relatives, they become separated from their partner, or they feel they need to hide photos that represent the memory of their husband or wife, it’s a real and valid fear.

That’s where Living Out comes in. This is a senior community in Palm Springs that’s intentionally designed to “provide a safe, joyful living environment for LGBTQ seniors to continue to live and love out and proud.”

Developer Loren Ostrow understands that saving for retirement is especially important for LGBTQ individuals. Add to that the growing number of Americans heading into retirement thanks to Baby Boomers leading the way, and the need for LGBTQ-friendly housing is clear.

About the Living Out

The Indoors

Scheduled to open next year (2023), this elegant resort apartment community will be built on nine acres in central Palm Springs, California. It will comprise 122 apartments in four-unit configurations ranging from a 1 bedroom with 1 ½ baths and a den to a 2 bedroom with 2 ½ baths and a den.

Units will range from approximately 1,100 square feet to 1,700 square feet, with every unit containing a large usable balcony or patio.

The community itself will feature:

• Dramatic landscaping and desert mountain views
• An upscale, full-service restaurant and bar operated by nationally known LGBTQ+ chefs and restaurateurs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken
• A movie theater with reclining seats
• A game room and card room, as well as an arts and crafts studio
• A state-of-the-art fitness center
• Massage rooms and a hair salon including manicure and pedicure facilities
• And an innovative community lounge that will include a coffee bar, prepared food options, and a work space

Residents will have a wide variety of entertainment options in this new LGBTQ senior living community.

The Outdoors

If you’re a fan of architecture, the architecture of the community will reference the iconic Mid-Century Modern style for which Palm Springs is famous.

The exterior of the property will include:

• Covered surface parking for all residents, as well as guest and retail parking
• An event lawn
• BBQ and entertainment areas
• A resort-style swimming pool and three separate jacuzzi spa areas
• Bocce ball courts
• A putting green
• Orchards, rose gardens, and walking paths

Got a furry friend to bring with you? They’re welcome, too! One of the most unique features of the property will be a large pet park, with areas for both large and small dogs. This will be beside a full-service pet facility, including a store, grooming facilities, daycare, and overnight boarding.

Living Out Palm Springs will also provide onsite and virtual concierge services to meet the needs of all its residents.

What if You Want to Live at Home?

No matter how wonderful an LGBTQ community is (and Living Out looks like it will be quite something!), sometimes, you just want to stay in your own home.

If that’s the case, in addition to the community in Palm Springs, Living Out will work with LGBTQ organizations to recommend in-home care companies with LGBTQ cultural competency.

Mr. Ostrow, an LGBTQ senior himself, has served on the LGBT Center of Los Angeles for decades and has donated the largest single seven-figure gift in the center’s history (amongst his many other philanthropic contributions locally and nationally).

Living Out Palm Springs will be the flagship property for Ostrow’s plan to develop Living Out communities around the nation.

LGBTQ Snow Birds and More Are Welcome

So whether you fly south for the cold winter months or are already a balmy area native, be sure to look at Living Out for your LGBTQ retirement needs.

More information on Living Out Palm Springs can be found at livingout.com.