A Guide to Retirement Living Options

Retirement is about proactively making lifestyle decisions that suit you, enabling you to live life to the fullest. The choice of accommodation options and services designed for seniors is extensive, contributing significantly to our well-being and sense of fulfilment. In this article, we aim to provide valuable information to assist you in making these important decisions.

1. Staying in your current home offers security and allows you to continue enjoying your cherished garden and the support of neighbours. Many people view their home as a refuge for family members, even as they enter their 20s and 30s. Financial considerations also come into play, as your home may be your most valuable asset.
2. Another option is to sell your house and downsize to a smaller one, which can have a significant impact on your lifestyle due to the freed-up money. Downsizing can be motivated by various lifestyle reasons, such as reducing the burden of maintaining a larger home and garden or living closer to family. Alternatively, some individuals may choose to upsize to a larger home to accommodate hobbies, small businesses, guests, or grandchildren. With the willingness to invest in assistance like home help or garden services, a bigger place can still be manageable.
3. Whether you choose to stay or move, consider modifying your house to accommodate changing needs. As you age or if you have a disability, your home plays a crucial role, and ensuring it is accessible and safe becomes even more important. Simple modifications like ramps or grab rails can greatly improve your quality of life.
4. Renting a house after selling your home is another option for financial or lifestyle reasons. It allows you to release tied-up funds, removes maintenance responsibilities, and provides flexibility. However, there may be disadvantages, such as feeling less secure or reduced enjoyment of the house and garden compared to when you were the homeowner. Subsidised rental accommodation specifically for older individuals is available through various organisations.
5. Access to care is vital for seniors in their lifestyle planning, and home-based support services are rapidly growing. These services offer assistance ranging from medical and nursing care to household tasks, allowing individuals to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Respite care and day care programs also provide temporary relief and social interaction for caregivers.
6. Retirement villages provide an independent living lifestyle in various forms, from villas and townhouses to serviced apartments and full-service communities. Some retirement villages even bring rest home and hospital-level care to the person’s own dwelling, eliminating the need to move to a residential facility. The age range for retirement villages is expanding, with new lifestyle villages catering to individuals over 55 who seek a balanced and active lifestyle.
7. Abbeyfield Houses offer another style of retirement community, providing affordable, family-styled independent living for up to ten seniors. These houses bridge the gap between independent living units and rest home care, offering greater support and social contact. Residents have comfortable suites and enjoy privacy while benefiting from the care and services provided by a live-in housekeeper/cook.
8. Rest homes and hospitals cater to individuals whose needs require a higher level of care and support than can be provided in their own homes. These facilities now provide stimulating and secure environments, with different levels of care available based on individual needs, from rest home care and specialised dementia care to continuing care hospitals and hospices for palliative care.

Retirement today offers a multitude of options for individuals to proactively shape their lifestyles according to their preferences and needs. Whether it’s staying in their current home, downsizing, modifying their house, renting, residing in retirement villages or seeking care, there is a range of choices available. It’s crucial to consider factors such as security, financial implications, support systems, and individual preferences when making these important decisions. By exploring the various options and finding the right fit, seniors can enhance their well-being, independence, and enjoyment of life during their retirement years!