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2. ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY
You may be weary of the busy life in the city and yearn for a tranquil, edifying natural environment in which to spend your autumn years. This may be in an inland town in a scenic part of our country or a quiet spot on the coast – many Johannesburg retirees end up in a seaside town. You are also likely to free up some capital, as accommodation is likely to be cheaper, although groceries may be more expensive in a small town. PROS: A change is as good as a holiday – you can start this new chapter of your life in a place that invigorates your soul and may provide new opportunities, such as working for a local charity or learning a new craft.
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CONS: Your family members and close friends may be much further away (so you may see them less frequently) and you will need to establish a new network of friends and service providers. Living in a small town, there may be security issues, and there may not be a good hospital in the vicinity.
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3. MOVE TO A RETIREMENT VILLAGE
Retirement villages have become an extremely popular option for South African retirees who can afford the lifestyle they offer. Units may be bought under sectional-title ownership or the village may operate according to a life rights system, whereby you forego ownership for the right to live in a unit until your death, upon which your estate receives a portion of the purchase price.
PROS: Retirement villages offer a secure, stress-free environment where all property maintenance is taken care of. Many offer good health-care services, a frailcare facility for when you get too old to look after yourself, as well as numerous activities for residents, such as bridge, bowls, outings and social events. CONS: The monthly levies may be high. Residents may feel cut off from the world outside. Many old people enjoy having younger people and children around them, which they would miss in a retirement village. The village rules may be rigid, such as prohibiting pets.
