When it comes to residential communities for the elderly, there are a number of options, ranging from aged 55+ and continuing care retirement communities to assisted living homes, nursing homes and beyond. While an aging adult’s needs and support levels are big deciding factors, one option that provides both independence and amenities that cater to older adults is a retirement village.
More hands-off than assisted living homes and nursing homes, retirement villages allow residents to enjoy their independence while benefitting from a community. Retirement communities also often facilitate activities that promote health and social wellbeing.
Here, we explain what to expect from retirement villages.
What are retirement villages?
Retirement villages are residential housing complexes specifically designed for older adults, typically aged 55 and older. They are designed for independent retirement living, meaning that residents can maintain an active and self-sufficient lifestyle.
Generally, retirement villages are not fully equipped with medical facilities or care staff – this way, they differ from assisted living homes and nursing homes.
Retirement villages may look a little different per complex, but typically they offer features and independent living amenities that cater to the lifestyle of older adults. They may include cafes, restaurants and gyms, as well as leisure facilities and planned social activities. Some even boast their own wellness spas, swimming pools and libraries.
They’re also designed with accessibility in mind, and so they may be equipped with features like ramps, handrails and other mobility aids.
Retirement villages make a great option for couples, too. Rules and regulations differ per complex, with some permitting couples and families so long as they meet the age criteria, which is usually 55+, 60+ or 65+.
Retirement villages usually include a mix of rental properties, such as retirement apartments, and homes to buy.
What amenities do retirement villages offer?
Retirement villages vary in size and in the amenities offered, but on the whole, they’re community-based, and so their facilities are built around just that. They typically have communal spaces and planned activities, the purpose of which is to bring older adults together and promote interaction at a time in life where older adults may feel isolated or lose their sense of self.
Other facilities that may be offered in retirement villages include:
- Wheelchair-accessible properties
- Handrails in bathrooms
- Easy-to-reach light switches and plug sockets
- Lever-style door handles
- Secure entrances and exits
- Security or staff presence
- Access to emergency call systems
- Leisure centres, facilities and planned activities
- Transport connections
- Walking routes
- Swimming pools
- Gyms
- Tennis courts
- Housekeeping services
- Meal service options
- Laundry rooms
- Full kitchens
- Communal dining facilities and cafes
In retirement villages, residents still retain their own independence – but can also make use of the services on offer.
Do retirement villages provide transport services?
Many retirement villages are well connected with public transport routes, while others may also provide their own taxi and transport services on request. Most retirement villages also have parking spots available for residents who have their own vehicles.
Sometimes, retirement villages will facilitate communal outings for residents to go shopping, attend medical appointments or have a social outing. In this case, the transport facilitated is often designed to be accessible for those with limited mobility – including wheelchair-accessible public transport options or vehicles, or assistance for residents with special needs.
How do retirement villages differ from assisted living and nursing homes?
Put simply, retirement villages are designed for independent living while assisted living and nursing homes, also called care homes, are set up for individuals who need higher levels of assistance and care for daily living.
Residents in retirement villages are generally able to live on their own and manage their daily activities without assistance. Residents in assisted living communities retain a level of independence, but also receive support as needed, depending on their requirements. Nursing homes or care homes provide full-time care via on-site staff, including nurses, who can administer medication, provide medical care and oversee rehabilitation services.
Another main difference is that residents of assisted living facilities or nursing homes may be eligible for state care or through disability or care allowances from the government, whereas retirement villages are usually fully self-funded.
It is also important to note that if you like the idea of living in a retirement village, but aren’t completely independent, you can still live in one of these facilities and enlist in-home care for more support.
This provides a balance of independence and support in a communal setting.
What are the benefits of retirement villages?
The biggest advantage of retirement villages is that they provide services and socialisation options for older adults.
Studies around the world found that people who live in retirement communities have healthier, more active, more social, more secure and happier lives than those who have not yet moved to a retirement community. Safety and security, meal options and services, personal care, transport links and activities or opportunities to socialise are key amenities offered that appeal to many older adults as they find themselves in need of a little more support. Retirement villages provide only the facilities needed while allowing older adults to remain in control of their lives as much as possible, preserving their independence for as long as possible.
What factors should be considered when choosing a retirement village?
First and foremost, it’s important to consider you or your loved one’s personality and likes and dislikes when choosing a retirement village. Plus, it is wise to be honest about which services you truly need. While some older adults may want to live in an independent setting, the reality may be that more support and care is needed. Through carefully evaluating both your desires and needs, the best choice can be made.
If you’ve decided that a retirement village is the way to go, here’s what else to consider:
Location. Location is an important factor to consider: it determines your proximity to family and friends, as well as essential services such as transport links, shops, GPs and hospitals.
Facilities. If you or your loved one enjoy swimming and tennis, choose a village with a pool and tennis court. Having the right facilities available for you will ultimately boost your happiness.
Cost. Determine your budget for renting or buying and stick to it. While higher-end villages with more facilities will cost more, keep in mind that you still want enough money left to stay comfortable and ensure a stress-free lifestyle.
Future considerations. Think beyond the now: if a higher level of care may be needed in the near or mid-future, consider the costs of those services in addition to the cost of the village.
The bottom line
Retirement villages are designed for independent living and community. The choice between this option and assisted living or a nursing home depends on your or your loved one’s health status, preferences and level of care required.
At the end of the day, retirement villages enable older adults who retain their independence to kick back and enjoy life, hassle-free.