Guide to Choosing the Right Retirement Village

How to choose the right retirement village

1. Assess your needs and preferences

Start by evaluating your current and future needs. Consider factors such as location, lifestyle preferences, level of care required, recreational activities, healthcare facilities, and budget constraints. Determine whether you prefer an independent living community, assisted living facility, or a nursing home.

2. Do your research

Utilise online resources, community forums, and word-of-mouth recommendations to research potential retirement villages. Consider factors such as reputation, amenities, services offered, staff qualifications, resident reviews, and proximity to family and healthcare facilities.

3. Consider location

Location needs to play a crucial role in your decision-making process. Choose a retirement village situated in a desirable location that offers easy access to essential services, shopping centers, recreational activities, cultural attractions, public transportation, and healthcare facilities. Consider factors such as climate, proximity to family and friends, and the availability of social support networks.

4. Visit multiple villages

Schedule visits to multiple retirement villages to get a firsthand look at the facilities and amenities. Take note of the cleanliness, layout, safety features, landscaping, social atmosphere, and overall ambiance of each community. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and request a tour of the residential units, dining areas, recreational facilities, and healthcare services.

5. Evaluate amenities and services

Assess the amenities and services offered by each retirement village. Look for facilities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, libraries, gardens, walking trails, hobby rooms, communal spaces, and organised activities and events. Inquire about services such as housekeeping, meal plans, transportation, medical assistance, emergency response systems, and social programs tailored to residents’ interests and preferences.

6. Review contractual agreements

Carefully review the contractual agreements and financial arrangements associated with each retirement village. Pay close attention to entrance fees, monthly service fees, additional charges for amenities and services, capital gains, refund policies, healthcare coverage and contractual obligations. Seek clarification on any terms or conditions you’re unsure of before signing any agreements.

7. Consult with legal and financial advisors

Seek guidance from legal and financial advisors to ensure that you fully understand the financial implications of moving to a retirement village. Discuss topics such as estate planning, tax considerations, retirement savings, asset protection and financing options.

→Related article: Power of Attorney: What is it and How do I Set One Up?

8. Engage with current residents

Take the time to engage with current residents and staff members during your visits to retirement villages. Ask about their experiences, satisfaction levels, quality of life, social interactions, healthcare services, and overall impressions of the community. Their insights and perspectives can provide valuable insights into daily life within the retirement village.

9. Plan for future care needs

Anticipate possible changes in your care needs as you age and select a retirement village that offers a range of care services. Choose a community that provides a selection of care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation services, and skilled nursing care. Ensure that the retirement village has protocols in place to accommodate residents’ evolving healthcare needs and preferences.

10. Trust your instincts

Ultimately, trust your instincts and intuition when making a decision about choosing the right retirement village. Select a community where you feel comfortable, safe, and valued, and where you can envision yourself thriving and enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle in your retirement years.

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About the author of this page

This guide was written by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose passion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.