Retirement Living Options
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.
M
ost 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.
Settling into village life Judy and her partner, Bill, were in their 60s when they moved to SwanCare retirement community and instantly got involved in village life. They volunteered, as many residents do, in various roles around the community, including transporting residents around the site in a buggy. Judy enjoys sewing and as a member of a patchwork club, speaks about the importance of keeping hobbies. “It’s important to keep outside interests as long as possible. But also, there are so many opportunities here for those that want to participate. That’s a benefit of being in a bigger retirement village, we have more services and facilities,” says Judy.
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Your Retirement Living – 8th edition
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.
As well as keeping up with her hobbies, Judy also volunteers as a member of the village residents committee. “We meet with residents over morning tea and they discuss any issues or problems that have arisen. Then we meet with the Executive team to relay information and provide feedback,” explains Judy. With the Executive Team on-site, all residents have the ability to contact and interact with all managers and staff, making for a great environment. Staff regularly participate in activities with residents including line dancing. Judy says, “They have an excellent structure here, an open-door policy where you can get access to management on all levels. Plus, management is all on-site which is advantageous as it means we can communicate more effectively.
“It’s why I’m part of the council, so I can get involved in the running of the village and help improve life for residents.” SwanCare has a handy ‘What’s On’ guide published every month to help residents plan their activities. Judy likes to keep herself busy, filling her day with her many hobbies and commitments. “There are at least thirty clubs here (when not in COVID times). You can join anything and everything!” she says. Case study provided by SwanCare.
