I am 39, husband is 49--second home (new construction) bought this year-- First home also brand new purchased in 2007 ...do the math
Moved here fulltime June 2012--prior to that--used our villa as rental.
You don't have to be 55 to live here. The issue is with the children
...which I don't mind. My kids are in college (one just graduated). So- life is good. I love it here. Some people ask "Why do YOU want to live here with all these old people"? I just smile and say "Wouldn't you have loved to enjoy this lifestyle in your 30s"?
Again the 80/20 split doesn't mandate 20% of "Young Folks" have to join in this lifestyle.
As far as kids--I have a friend who lives here (they are in there 60s, have a child with special needs residing with them--under 19) ...No issues.
Why does it bother anyone what others do? Too many community
driving around without all the knowledge. I actually had a lady tell me at the Savannah Pool--"this pool is for residents". I told her "I am a resident". She grumbled--and soon the Rec Dept was inquiring for my id. Really? I should have just told her I married a really old guy...she probably would have left me alone!
So--enjoy your neighbors. You might have more in common than you think. I have made lots of best friends--20-40 years older than me! I enjoy their company and I think I have found home forever!!!!