Ageing with Style: Why People Are Increasingly Attracted to Retirement Villages

In the past, retirement villages had the unfortunate reputation as dark and sad places where formally vibrant people waited to die.

That’s not true anymore!

Over the past few decades, retirement villages have evolved into thriving communities that offer opportunities for socialization, exploration, and fun.

When it comes time to downsize the family home and really enjoy your golden years, retirement villages are worth a look. We’ll break down some of the most exciting new trends in over-50 living and offer a few community profiles to get you started on your search for the perfect retirement arrangement.

What’s New in Retirement Villages

From new tech to sophisticated touches, today’s retirement villages are using thoughtful design to create the most welcoming spaces possible.

Technology. In some communities, dedicated apps allow residents to access schedules, menus, and activity opt-ins all in one place. Tech can also support the health goals of residents with wearable devices that track vital health metrics and offer one-touch assistance calls.

Thoughtful Architecture. We have known for years that a person’s environment plays a part in their overall wellbeing. Now that concept is being applied to the design and construction of retirement villages that are welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and above-all, functional. That means more natural sunlight and green spaces as well as modern architecture that provides for privacy and personalization.

Upscale Dining & Amenities. Just because you are eating in a community dining room doesn’t mean you have to feel as though you’ve returned to your primary school cafeteria. More and more retirement villages are upscaling their dining experiences. You might also enjoy community-sponsored galas, engaging clubs, or coordinated local and international trips throughout the years.

A Home for Fido. Many retirement villages are already pet friendly, but forward-thinking ones include amenities just for your pampered pet. From off-leash parks to doggie day care, treats in the lobby and trips to the groomer, you’ll find that your cherished pet is not just accepted, but truly welcomed.

Retirement Village Profiles

Whether you want to spend that nest egg on luxury living during your golden years or simply relax in a comfortable and welcoming community, there is a retirement village to meet your needs. Following are just a few examples in Australia and the UK.

The Best Money Can Buy

Australia. If you’ve ever wished to spend your retirement dwelling inside a Monet painting, the Palm Lake Resort Tea Gardens is for you. Located on 23 hectares of land in New South Wales, this village is replete with manicured gardens and graceful bridges arching over lakes decorated with Monet-inspired water lilies.

In terms of unusual amenities, you’ll love the 60-seat luxury cinema, covered bowling green, and ten-pin bowling alley. There is also an indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, and fitness room. The décor is modern and luxe – think crystal chandeliers and tons of marble.

UK. Maybe you love your days at the spa and want to live in one year-round. Richmond Villages has 10 ultra-luxury properties throughout England, some of which even have their own Wellness Spas within the community.

Choose a Lifestyle Package upgrade to have all of your cooking, cleaning, laundry, ironing, and utility bills handled. There are gyms with fitness equipment and classes, pools and saunas, and activities galore. You can even book a weekend stay at a Richmond Villages location before deciding whether it’s the place for you!

Best Budget Options

Australia. For a more modest yet still beautiful and comfortable retirement experience, check out Hampshire Villages, a company that builds and sells manufactured homes in nice retirement communities for affordable prices.

Over-50s can basically design their dream retirement home from amongst a selection of styles with tons of custom options. You can also purchase a pre-loved home in an established community in several desirable coastal and rural locations across South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria.

These pet-friendly communities also deliver excellent amenities in the form of Community Centres with library, large-screen TV, kitchen, and lounge area. There are swimming pools, bowling greens, tennis courts, and BBQ areas, too. Social committees arrange for outings and get-togethers.

UK. There is no question that retirement, like the rest of life, can be quite expensive. But with less money coming in, many people worry about stretching their savings far enough. MHA is a Christian charity that provides affordable housing in retirement villages as well as a host of other services to meet the needs of seniors.

Retirement villages administered by MHA are open to people of all faiths, or no faith. There are apartments, studios, and en suite bedrooms available. The communities are safe, attractive, and allow residents to customize the level of support that they need to live life to the fullest.

Forward-thinking retirement communities recognize that it’s not just about the place, it’s about the experiences you finally have the time to enjoy. Commonly deferred dreams range from reading all the books you’ve collected over the years in a nice cozy spot, to taking that extended international vacation you never managed because the kids, pets, and house all needed constant care.

Retirement is your time. Think about choosing a retirement village to truly spend it well.

Sources:

https://www.downsizing.com.au/news/623/Australias-luxury-retirement-villages-that-will-blow-your-mind

https://www.hampshirevillages.com.au/villages-retirement-homes