Tips to help you plan the later years of your retirement
Retirement villages and aged care homes are two very different animals, each with its unique qualities that suit different people, depending on your needs.
There are many misconceptions surrounding both, so it’s good to be clear on the key differences as you start to plan for the next stage of your life, or for someone you care about.
Here are some of the major differences between a retirement village and aged care, to help you or your loved ones decide which is your best option.
Aged care facilities
Aged care homes provide an option for someone who is unable to live independently and involve some level of supported living and care. If you require personal assistance in any way, then an aged care facility can meet these needs.
Aged care facilities are often government funded and may require you to have an ACAT or ACAS assessment (Aged Care Assessment.) This assessment looks at a range of factors including your health and medical history, physical requirements, psychological needs, social needs, and any special needs. This helps applicants get the best level of assistance and care.
The fees incurred in living in an aged care home cover all the expenses of care, including meals and accommodation. Meals are usually provided at set times throughout the day, either in a dining room or in the residents’ rooms, depending on their mobility.
For those who need daily care, an aged care facility can provide a comfortable, safe environment that can meet and adapt to a person’s individual needs through their later years.
Retirement villages
A retirement village is primarily self-care. It provides an independent lifestyle for those who do not need additional living assistance. It’s the choice you would make if you are healthy and able to maintain an active, social lifestyle. There are some retirement villages that now offer additional care services if needed.
People who move into a retirement village are looking to spend their later years with people of a similar age who are at a similar stage in life. They want to make new friends who share common interests and enjoy a more relaxed, independent, and social lifestyle.
Modern retirement villages, or retirement communities as they are also known, offer luxurious amenities like you would find in a resort. These could include a swimming pool, gym, or bowling green, as well as organised activities aimed at keeping residents happy and healthy, while expanding their social circles.
There are various models for retirement villages with fees and services dependent on which type you choose. There are financial benefits and pitfalls with each, so it’s best to carefully weigh them up before you make the move.
Retirement village management look after the maintenance of all the shared community areas such as buildings, facilities, and gardens. Many include home maintenance and landscaping services in your fees, while others offer it at an additional cost.
Come and talk with us about your needs in retirement
If the retirement village lifestyle is what you’re looking for, we’d love to show you how to get the most out of life at Kensington Gardens retirement villages.
We’ve created an exciting, secure, carefree lifestyle community that residents love. Your spacious, architect-designed home is waiting for you to enjoy.
Our team at Kensington Gardens in Albury and Shepparton would love to show you through our secure retirement community where you’ll see how retirement living really should be!
Arrange your safe, socially distanced tour by calling Kensington Gardens at Albury on 02 6049 3100 or Shepparton on 03 5820 5100 today or get in touch online to book a time to come in and visit us.
