When Is The Right Time To Move Into A Retirement Village?

Retirement villages are gaining popularity for their convenient, low-maintenance lifestyle and a wealth of recreational and community opportunities. If you’re considering moving into a retirement village, you might wonder about what is the right timing for such a transition. The ideal age or stage for moving into a retirement village varies for each person and hinges on individual circumstances and preferences.

These communities are generally tailored to older adults seeking a lifestyle centred around community engagement, care and support during their senior years. Many decide to move into a retirement village when they no longer wish to shoulder the responsibilities of maintaining a large home. It could also stem from a desire for a more socially vibrant and secure environment. Some individuals contemplate this move as they plan for the future, considering their potential care needs, or they may seek a living environment that prioritises mobility and accessibility.

According to the Property Council Retirement 2022 census, the average age for entering a retirement village in Australia is 75 years, with residents having an average age of 81.

As we age, the upkeep of a sizable family home can become overwhelming. The continual need for repairs, garden care, and the effort of cleaning multiple bedrooms and bathrooms can feel burdensome. Despite these challenges, the family home often holds a lifetime of memories and familiarity within the community, making it difficult for many to consider giving it up.

While there are steps you can take to prolong your stay in your family home, such as making minor age-friendly renovations and outsourcing help for gardening and cleaning, there may come a point where managing a large home becomes too demanding. In such cases, contemplating downsizing and embracing life in a retirement village could be a suitable option.

There might be a time when your home no longer feels as secure as it once did, with uneven floors, multiple levels or stories, and various surfaces like tiles and old carpet posing potential risks for slips, trips, or falls. If this resonates with your situation, it may be prudent to reassess your living arrangements, and considering a retirement village could be a wise choice.

Loneliness and social isolation can be significant concerns for many older Australians. The link between loneliness and increased mental and chronic health issues is well-established. Events such as the death of a spouse, separation from friends or family, reduced mobility, or relinquishing the ability to drive can elevate the risk of loneliness. In such circumstances, moving to a retirement village becomes a thoughtful consideration.

Retirement villages offer organised social, sporting, and leisure activities for residents who wish to participate. Being part of a community where individuals share the same stage of life provides opportunities for both planned and spontaneous social interactions, fostering a sense of familiarity and companionship.

After spending numerous years in their homes and communities, many older individuals may come to the realisation that the once-familiar community has evolved or changed. There was a time when every face on the street was known, and dropping in for a friendly chat was commonplace. However, recognising a familiar face to wave to has become a rarity today.

If you find yourself in this situation, considering a move to a retirement village might offer the chance to reside in a community of like-minded individuals who share the same stage of life. Numerous residents express their preference for maintaining independence and having a private life, while also finding comfort in the knowledge that neighbours and a dedicated village team are looking out for their well-being.

As we age, the inevitable reality is that there may come a time when we require additional care and support. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean moving into residential aged care or a nursing home. A retirement village offers an alternative, providing independent living with the accessibility of care when necessary.

Some villages provide serviced apartments for those with escalating care needs, offering an ideal solution for maintaining an independent lifestyle while ensuring care requirements are met. In a serviced apartment, residents have the freedom to come and go as they please, coupled with the convenience of having cleaning, linen laundry, and meals taken care of.

A shift in care needs or the realisation of a desire to be in a place where care requirements can be seamlessly addressed often catalyses individuals to contemplate the prospect of moving to a retirement village.

As you navigate the considerations and possibilities of retirement living, it’s essential to think about the transition for yourself and your current home, be it your parents’ residence or your own. We understand that selling a home is a significant aspect of this process, and we’re here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to assisting you in making informed decisions about your future living arrangements and property sale. Feel free to contact us, and let’s explore the options that best suit your needs and aspirations.