What makes a retirement village perfect for senior living?
Retirement villages are modern-day communities that offer a place for seniors to live, gather and socialize. They're designed to be both more independent and safer than regular homes. Retirement villages come in all shapes and sizes, but they share a few common characteristics. Here's what you need to know about retirement villages:
What is a retirement village?
A retirement village is a community-based housing solution for seniors that offers independent living and assisted living services. Retirement villages offer a wide range of amenities and services, including activities, programs and amenities tailored to the needs of their residents.
Activities include arts and crafts, personal care services and social activities such as outings to the park or library. Services include private bathrooms, maid service, meals prepared by kitchens on-site and transportation provided by shuttles from the local bus system or taxi service in areas without public transportation access.
They offer a variety of services and amenities that allow seniors to remain independent while enjoying the benefits of a community setting.
Here are five things to consider before choosing a retirement village:
- Ease of access. Retirement villages often have easy access to public transportation, which can help seniors get around without worrying about driving themselves. Many also offer on-site parking, allowing residents to leave their vehicles in secure spaces.
- Quality care. A good retirement village will have staff dedicated specifically to helping residents with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing and eating meals, or getting around the property safely. In addition, facilities should be well maintained and free from clutter so that residents don't feel trapped in their rooms by unnecessary items (such as bookshelves).
- Community involvement. A retirement village is an ideal choice if you want to stay connected with friends and family who live close by or across town. Many offer social activities as well as educational opportunities such as classes on topics like gardening or art appreciation. Some even host events like book clubs or movie nights where residents can meet other older adults who share similar interests.
- Home health care: Home health care is available to residents 24 hours a day. Some also provide meals and housekeeping services.
- Meals: Meals are served at least three times daily.
- Laundry service: Residents have access to laundry facilities and dryers.
- games and other social activities: Retirement villages often offer many opportunities for seniors to meet new friends.
- Community centre: Activities such as art classes, cooking classes, exercise classes and more are available at the community centre.
The bottom line
Retirement village Sydney-wide is a great option for seniors who want to age in place. The goal of these communities is to provide seniors with the independence they desire while providing them with the support they need to remain safe in their homes.