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Finding what’s right for you: Villages
You have many options to choose from when it comes to retirement villages. Sometimes when you know you know, but finding the perfect village to call your forever home is not always an easy decision.
You want to make sure that your chosen village is the right pick for you and your lifestyle. It takes some careful consideration to weigh up your options.
So how do you choose the retirement village that's right for you? Here are some questions you might ask to help get you started.
What kind of environment do you want to live in?
Do you want to stay close to your family home? Wake up to the sounds of the ocean? Maybe country-style living is the dream? Or, are you a city person through and through? Location is one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing the right retirement village for you.
You might already have some non-negotiables. Most people want a village that sits in close proximity to family, friends, shopping, transport, and medical services.
But also think about your preferences for the types of landscapes and amenities you want close by. Maybe you're a nature lover drawn to a beautiful landscape outside your window. Or, maybe you want an inner-city life with restaurants, cafes, galleries, and concert halls right on your doorstep.
Retirement villages aren't always a traditional image of cottages on a quiet suburban street. From vertical villages in high-rise city buildings to those spread across regional landscapes, you’ll have many options to choose from.
What do you want to spend your time doing in retirement?
How do you picture your retirement? Do you want to socialise and meet new people? Do you want to stay active? See family and friends more? Or do you crave a little more quiet?
Retirement villages come in different sizes with a huge variety of amenities and facilities across them. If swimming is an important part of your morning routine, you might want somewhere with a pool or near the beach. If you've got a green thumb, look into retirement villages with a private garden. You might also come to love the communal vegetable gardens available in some villages, where everyone can contribute to help it grow and flourish.
Larger villages generally offer more facilities and events, whereas other, smaller villages are more suited to quieter community living.
Not sure? Visit the village
If you feel unsure, a good step is to tour a number of retirement villages, to get a feel for what you like before leaping into retirement living. Speaking to residents, joining in on activities, and exploring the local area will give you a good feel of village life. This can help you decide whether the retirement village works for you. Retirement villages will often offer private tours and open days. You may also be able to take a short-term trial stay, where you may spend close to a week in the village, getting a feel for the properties and community life.