55+ communities, or active adult communities, are residential areas designed for individuals aged 55 and older. These communities offer a lifestyle tailored to older adults, featuring low-maintenance housing and various amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and walking trails. Social interaction is encouraged through organized events, hobby groups, and recreational activities. Many communities provide additional services like healthcare facilities, transportation, and dining options. Located in desirable climates and scenic areas, they offer a serene and enjoyable living environment. The primary goal is to foster a vibrant, supportive atmosphere where residents can enjoy their retirement years with a focus on health, wellness, and social connections.

The Black Hills encompass the Black Hills National Forest and are home to the tallest peaks of continental North America east of the Rockies. Today, the South Dakota side of the Black Hills is economically and socially more like Wyoming or Colorado than the Dakotas. The nearby reservations and Ellsworth Air Force Base make for a unique diversity in population different from that of the rest of Wyoming or South Dakota. As the economy of the Black Hills has shifted from natural resources including mining and timber, the hospitality and tourism industry has grown to take its place. The foundation of tourism in the Black Hills are the parks and monuments including Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the proximity to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.