Wondering if retirement living could be the right fit for you?
When exploring your options it’s very natural for the first questions to revolve around costs. After all, financial considerations play a crucial role in retirement planning. However, another factor just as important, is considering the lifestyle a village can unlock for you and your family.
These questions find their answers best from those who have already taken the leap. In this piece, we delve into the experiences of Tony and Joy, who’ve uncovered both the financial security and the enriching lifestyle that has come alongside their recent move to Ryman’s Kevin Hickman Village in Christchurch, along with their dog Jake.
Lifestyle in a friendly community
Dispelling common misconceptions about retirement villages, Tony highlights their choice as the start of a new chapter, rather than a journey’s end.
“People think you come here because you’re nearing your end, but a retirement village is just the opposite. It’s a place to live for a long time. If you need the rest home part of it, that’s catered for, but the guts of it is you have a high-quality lifestyle, with somebody else to mow your lawn,” says Tony.
As well as the freedom from daily chores, their community connections have also flourished since moving in, with Jake even forming his own social circle.
“One of the gardeners has become Jake’s best buddy, thanks to his pocketful of dog treats,” chuckles Joy.
Peace of Mind, Today and Tomorrow
Tony and Joy also enjoy the reassurance of a fixed base weekly fee*, encompassing essentials like rates, home insurance, and exterior maintenance. Shielded from the uncertainties of rising homeownership costs, they revel in the peace of mind it brings.
‘With house insurance prices going up, and rates going up, rubbish removal, all that sort of thing, we just don’t need to worry about it, it’s really comforting,” says Joy.
“The big things are all taken care of, so financially, particularly in times of high inflation, it’s a pretty good deal,” says Tony.
Financial Certainty: Enabling Exploration
With certainty around their weekly outgoings, Tony and Joy relish the freedom to plan for adventures, be it holidays away or visits to loved ones overseas. They say it’s easy to take a trip because they know their home is safe and sound while they are gone.
“You can shut the door and walk away and know the place is in good hands. That’s quite a comfort,” says Tony.
It’s a lock and leave lifestyle meaning they can look forward to travelling without any concerns around home security or maintenance. They know if something needs repairs, or the windows need washing, it’s all handled by the village.
And then when they come back it’s like still being on holiday.
“Living in our apartment is a bit like being in a five-star hotel but without having to move in and out and pay an exorbitant fee every day. It’s a great lifestyle, that’s what we’re here for really, the lifestyle,” says Tony.
Making the most of their retirement
Tony and Joy are part of a generation who aren’t looking to slow down, they want to challenge themselves, discover more, and expand their worlds, without the worry of unexpected costs slowing them down.
“So many people leave the move to a retirement village too late,” says Tony.
“Come in and enjoy your existing lifestyle, but do it with company and the security of the village around you.”
To find out more about living in Ryman’s vibrant village communities throughout New Zealand visit Ryman Healthcare.
Su Doo - 2 months ago
Had the same problem – no show for this article. Too bad cos looked interesting?????