In a world increasingly concerned with loneliness, PulteGroup Inc. has released insightful findings from a new survey conducted by its subsidiary, Del Webb. The survey, which included responses from over 1,300 individuals aged 55 and older living in Del Webb communities across 14 states, reveals that a significant majority of residents feel socially connected and engaged, highlighting the role of community living in enhancing overall well-being.

2. Key Findings from the Survey

The survey results are striking: 91% of respondents report feeling socially connected at this stage of their lives. Furthermore, 71% attribute their sense of connection to their living environment, indicating that the design of Del Webb communities facilitates meaningful interactions. Notably, more than half (51%) of those surveyed claim to have become more socially engaged since moving into their current community.

This data presents a positive contrast to recent research from the University of Michigan, which indicated that over one-third of individuals aged 50 to 80 experience feelings of loneliness, with a similar percentage feeling isolated. While there may be no singular solution to loneliness, the survey suggests that fostering social interactions in community settings can be a viable approach.

3. A Lifestyle Designed for Connection

Manish Shrivastava, Chief Marketing Officer at PulteGroup, emphasized the vision behind Del Webb communities. "We design Del Webb communities to be so much more than just a place to live – it is a lifestyle built around connection," he stated. This sentiment reflects the company's commitment to creating environments that encourage social engagement among active adults, allowing them to redefine their lives in retirement.

The Importance of Social Engagement

The survey further illustrates that social connections significantly impact health and well-being. A remarkable 80% of respondents acknowledged that maintaining connections with others is crucial to their overall health. With traditional avenues for socializing—such as children and work—becoming less accessible as adults age, Del Webb communities provide a viable alternative.

According to the survey, 94% of residents find it easy to engage in conversations with their neighbors, with organized group activities (41%), shared meals (41%), and social gatherings like coffee hours (37%) being the most popular ways to connect.

4. Active Living Beyond Socializing

The commitment to socialization extends beyond simple conversations, as the survey also highlights the physical activity levels of residents. An impressive 66% of participants reported being as active or more active than in their younger years. The most favored activities included:

Group exercise classes (28%)

Playing pickleball (27%)

Outdoor pursuits like hiking and canoeing (21%)

Delaine Newberry, lifestyle director at Del Webb Sun City Peachtree in Griffin, Georgia, shared insights on the vibrant community life. "The homes are beautiful, but at the end of the day, it’s about who your neighbors are and how you spend your time," she noted. With over 60 clubs and interest groups available, residents often find themselves with packed calendars, underscoring the strong sense of belonging within these communities.

5. Conclusion

The survey conducted by PulteGroup’s market research division from February 24-26, 2026, provides a valuable perspective on the benefits of active adult communities in combating loneliness and promoting social engagement. As Del Webb continues to lead the way in building environments that foster connection and well-being, the findings serve as a reminder of the importance of community in enhancing the lives of older adults.

For more information about Del Webb and its offerings, interested parties can visit delwebb.com.

Original press release