By Ben Durnat, Vermont Maturity contributor.
Vermont’s picturesque landscape, charming small towns, and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to retire. Among the state’s many wonderful towns, Shelburne and Middlebury stand out as two exceptional choices for those looking to retire and age in place. Here’s a closer look at what makes these towns perfect for retirement.
Shelburne, Vermont
Scenic Beauty and Tranquility Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne offers breathtaking views and a peaceful environment. The town’s well-maintained parks, like Shelburne Bay Park and LaPlatte Nature Park, provide ample opportunities for walking, bird-watching, and enjoying nature.
Vibrant Community Spirit Shelburne is known for its welcoming and close-knit community. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, concerts, and festivals. These events foster a strong sense of belonging and provide plenty of opportunities for socializing. It is home to the Lake Champlain Yacht Club, the second oldest yacht club in the country, as well as Shelburne Farms, a magnificent 1,400-acre former farm and estate that is open to the public and features year-round walking trails, educational programs, a historic inn, and a children’s farmyard. Shelburne Museum is a renowned open-air museum that features an eclectic collection of American folk art, artifacts, and Vermont architecture across 45 acres in the heart of the village.
Access to Quality Healthcare Healthcare is a top priority for retirees, and Shelburne excels in this area. The town is near the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, ensuring residents have access to top-notch medical care. Additionally, there are several local clinics and specialists available.
Convenient Amenities Shelburne offers a variety of amenities, including a well-stocked grocery store, pharmacies, excellent restaurants, wine shops, and cafes.
Housing Options Shelburne provides diverse housing options suitable for aging in place. From single-family homes to a broad spectrum of condominiums, the town offers something for everyone, including many properties directly on Lake Champlain. Many homes are designed with accessibility in mind and feature senior-friendly amenities. For senior communities, notable is the senior “CCRC” community Wake Robin. “CCRCs” are Continuing Care Retirement Communities. The advantage of a CCRC is that they offer a full continuum of care in a single location, where residents can access various levels of care like independent living, assisted living, and memory care without having to move as their needs change. Another notable community in Shelburne is the Residences at Shelburne Bay. According Marketing Director Sarah Dickenson, “We distinguish ourselves as being an Age-In-Place Model. This model affords the consumer to enter the community without buying-in, a less risky approach.” Ms. Dickenson elaborated by saying “We permit residents to move in at any level of care, a departure from the CCRC model.” A third option, specifically for those that need Assisted Living or Memory Care, is The Arbors at Shelburne. My own father was cared for at The Arbors, where he received exceedingly good care by wonderful caregivers that I cannot thank enough.
Middlebury, Vermont
Located just 35 minutes south of Shelburne, Middlebury is at the cultural and geographic heart of Addison County. Middlebury is a college town and home to the prestigious “Little Ivy” Middlebury College. With its connection to the college, there is a notable emphasis on curiosity, global awareness, and an intellectual mindset. Middlebury exudes a blend of quaint New England charm and progressive thinking, making it a dynamic and engaging place to live.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities Middlebury is surrounded by the Green Mountains and is located along the banks of Otter Creek, offering stunning landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities. The town’s parks, hiking trails, and fishing spots make it easy for retirees to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. For skiing, you’ll find the Rikert Nordic Center, which offers world-class cross-country skiing and hiking depending on the season. The Middlebury Snowbowl is owned by the college and offers a phenomenal alpine experience without the crowds of more well-known mountains.
High-Quality Healthcare Middlebury excels in providing access to quality healthcare. Porter Medical Center, part of the University of Vermont Health Network, offers comprehensive medical services, including primary care and specialty care. There are also numerous local healthcare providers and wellness programs.
Convenient Amenities Middlebury offers a wide range of amenities, including charming shops, cafes, and restaurants in its downtown area. The local library, community center, and senior center provide various programs and activities to keep seniors engaged and active. The Middlebury Farmers Market is world-class and is emblematic of Addison County’s agrarian nature.
Diverse Housing Options Middlebury provides a variety of housing options suitable for aging in place. Whether it’s single-family homes, condominiums, or senior living communities, retirees can find housing that meets their preferences and needs. A notable option for senior housing is The Residences at Otter Creek. Like The Residences at Shelburne Bay, The Residences at Otter Creek offers the same Age-In-Place Model that allows clients a full spectrum of care without changing communities nor a buy-in fee. A feature unique to the Residences at Otter Creek is their “cottage” option, which includes stand-alone two-bedroom homes with garages on quaint, tree-lined streets. Inhabitants of the cottages still have access to the amenities of the larger community, offering the best of both worlds.
Why Choose Shelburne or Middlebury?
Both towns offer a blend of natural beauty, vibrant community spirit, and essential amenities that cater to retirees. Their strong healthcare systems, convenient amenities, and diverse housing options make them ideal places to age in place. The cultural and recreational opportunities available in both towns ensure that retirees can lead fulfilling and active lives.
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