Resort-Style Retirement Living – Is it For You? Everything You Need to Know

Giving up a much-loved family home for a villa or a smaller apartment in a retirement village used to be a difficult decision to make. But the tables have turned, and today, an increasing number of people are looking forward to the move – and the prospect of a new life in an expertly planned community. A lot has changed and these days, retirement villages come complete with resort-style amenities like a pool, gym, private cinema, wine cellar, pilates studio and sometimes a golf course! And that’s just to name a few.

According to the Federal Government's latest Intergenerational Report, the retirement living sector is experiencing a boom, with 23% of the population expected to be over 65 by 2060 – 2061. As a result, foresighted developers have begun work on architect-designed quality homes for the well-heeled post-retirement boomers and are making them as attractive as possible. Which is great news for boomers.

These communities are built for a senior clientele ready and eager to move on from their previous lives and embrace an entirely new way of living. Most retirees believe that they have put in the effort in raising families, working hard and dealing with busy routines and are now ready to take it easy and want to make it as enjoyable as possible.

So, instead of seeing retirement as something to feel apprehensive about, Australians are now often looking forward to this stage because the golden years allow them to slow down, enjoy their lives, spend time with loved ones and pursue their interests that they previously had little time for.

It can’t be denied though, that retirement can be a big change presenting its own set of challenges, such as loneliness, boredom and the need for assistance with daily activities. And that’s why resort-style retirement villages are attractive for those overwhelmed by the switch, providing a luxurious, supportive and social environment for seniors to enjoy their later years. In this post, we will discuss this popular type of living, share everything you need to know, and let you decide if it is for you.

Meant For New-gen Retirees

The resort-style retirement villages are so very different from the old ones. They are usually located away from the rat race and traffic, and are situated at scenic places near the beach or countryside. These settings appeal to the latest generation of retirees who belong to the baby boomers' generation, who are fortunately entering their retirement years with a lot of wealth behind them from rising property values. They usually want and expect homes equal to or better than the ones they're leaving and don't want to compromise. And we don’t think they should! Hence the industry has changed dramatically in the past ten years to accommodate this new clientele. It is no wonder that many find the more recent retirement villages resembling luxury resorts rather than places to simply grow old in, places to thrive in, to the envy of those still caught up in the rat race!

Some retirees believe that moving to a resort-style lifestyle is all about getting a fresh start and doing what they’ve always wanted to do.

An Enviable Retirement Lifestyle

Contrary to what many may think, a retirement community is not a place where seniors sit around doing nothing! It actually could not be any further from the truth! In fact, if one chooses to take part in all the activities and facilities on hand, the retirement village lifestyle can be super busy and full of activities that, at times, one may wonder how they will ever have time to try them all.

The best thing about these types of communities is that you can do as much or as little as you like. You may prefer to be busy one week, and quieter the next. You may wish to get involved with everyone and everything! You may wish to take it slow and keep to yourself a little more.

Many couples decide to travel and see places during their retirement, and living in a resort-style retirement village in Sydney is perfect for that – it is absolutely safe and secure and they can come and go as they please.

And the cherry on top of the cake is that you can live a calm and peaceful life – undisturbed by any noisy parties or rowdy kids next door. And if there is a bit of a racket of loud music, they're probably playing music from your generation that you love!

Retirement is the time to enjoy the finer things in life. Check out the many fantastic amenities seniors can enjoy, such as a sauna, bowling alley, library, beauty parlour, top-notch restaurant and tennis courts. The facilities at most resort-style developments offer you a high quality of life, all within the confines of your gated community – so if you don’t want to, you don’t even have to leave home.

Integrated Aged Care

Another essential feature of resort-style retirement villages is the integrated aged care component, which allows aging apartment owners to receive care in their homes if and when needed, or transfer to a higher care facility on the same site. It’s comforting for seniors to know help is there if they need it and if they need further care they won’t need to move far at all.

For most retirees, this is a deciding factor – as age catches up, peace of mind and reassurance that their future is secure becomes especially important. Another thing to consider is that people in their 90s will require more intensive care than those in their 70s, and with some age gaps between spouses, it can be a great comfort to be able to remain in the same place or in close proximity to one’s spouse, even when their needs can be different.

Wrapping Up

Resort-style retirement villages are becoming increasingly popular with the demand for vertical villages, with luxury homes and plenty of on-site services and amenities. With the population aging, governments are also focused on healthy aging and are invested in making life happier and more accessible for the senior citizen community. As you can see from above, there are so many benefits of this type of living. And apart from the tips mentioned here, it really is up to you. So don’t put it off, research and determine whether this would be not only a suitable option for you in the long run, but the best option for you to look forward to.