Life in a village

Living in a retirement village can offer a supportive environment and encourage independence, as well as the ability to enjoy social and leisure activities, if you choose.

Most retirement villages have a great sense of community and you can expect to be surrounded generally by like-minded, friendly and welcoming neighbours.

Culture

Each village has its own culture, but generally each village should be based on ‘senior friendly’ criteria and a community focused environment.

While each village differs from another, residents usually have an active say in which activities will take place, and are often involved in running events at the village.

Depending on the village, some of these activities may include aerobics, water/aqua aerobics, card afternoons, Probus, personal training, knitting and sewing circles, craft groups plus outings to galleries, movies, events and places of interest. Regular ‘Happy Hours’ and afternoons spent watching televised sport are also popular among some residents.

Amenities

Retirement villages are run by professional managers and support staff who are committed to making life easier for residents, whether it is arranging for the collection of dry cleaning or keeping the garden in top condition.

Security and 24 hour call systems, communal facilities such as games rooms or dining areas, or medical and allied health services are some of the amenities available to residents.

Before moving to a residential village, enquire about the services and amenities available.

At your service

Indulge in catered dining at the village’s restaurant or bistro, catch up with neighbours in the coffee lounge or enjoy a barbecue with your family, or perhaps you might simply prefer a quiet dinner in your own unit. These are the options available at most villages.

Sharing is caring

Communal facilities are common features in retirement villages, with a range of services and amenities available to residents.

There are recreational, service and social communal facilities which, depending on the village, may include:

◆ Libraries and community centres

◆ Barbecue areas, restaurants or internet cafés

◆ Gaming areas such as billiards, table tennis, indoor bowls, bowling greens and swimming pools

◆ Medical services such as doctors, podiatrists and physiotherapists

◆ Other services such as banking and hairdressers

Be sure to visit and check the communal facilities available in the village you choose to ensure it fits with your lifestyle and needs.

Health

Looking after your health is important. Some retirement villages are equipped to help you manage any existing health problems and may also be prepared to assist should you become unwell during your stay.

Some villages have call systems installed in their villas and apartments to provide a 24 hour monitoring service for medical emergencies. Staff trained in first aid may also attend to the emergency.