Villages spark up retirement years
AS seniors account for an increasing share of Australia’s population, retirement communities are becoming home to a growing number of people.
More than 184,000 older Australians call retirement communities home and this figure is expected to double within the next decade.
But the rising popularity of this change in lifestyle is due to more than simply ageing requirements.
John Grassa, general manager Victoria for Lendlease Retirement Living, which operates Geelong’s Abervale and Tannoch Brae retirement villages, said there were many benefits associated with living independently in a connected community.
“Recent research from the Australian Property Council reported that 46 per cent of residents noted an increase in their happiness and mental wellbeing upon moving into retirement living,” Mr Grassa said.
“Retirement communities are intended and designed to enhance the lives of people as they get older. Many studies show that retirement village residents stay healthier for longer, have a greater quality of life, and report increased happiness and wellbeing.”
He said that while many residents were aware of several benefits of retirement living before moving in, such as the low-maintenance accommodation as well as facilities including bowling greens and swimming pools, the social aspect was often an unexpected benefit.
Meeting new people, village events, activities and celebrations, and generally being a part of a tight-knit community were some of the added advantages.
Geelong couple Brian and Julie Brylow have experienced these benefits first-hand since moving to Tannoch Brae Retirement Village last year after their five-bedroom family home became increasingly difficult to manage.
While moving into an over55s community was not always part of their plan, Mrs Brylow, 63, said she and her husband felt immediately at home.
“I’ve always liked that Tannoch Brae isn’t a huge village — you never feel lost,” she said.
“I also like that it’s very established, which stood out immediately — lots of trees, beautiful gardens, and it’s very spacious.”
Tannoch Brae’s community centre was another immediate drawcard. With features including a large dining room, billiard room and library, Mrs Brylow said it offered everything the couple could want.
Likewise, Mr Brylow, 69, makes the most of the many activities on offer.
“I play bocce, I’m in the book club, I’ve joined the Men’s Shed and I volunteer as the MC for village events so that I can throw in a few jokes,” he said.
Lendlease Retirement Living can offer advice to anyone considering making the move into a retirement community.
Mr Grassa suggested engaging a real estate agent you know and trust, and he recommended arranging a visit to tour local villages and meet potential new neighbours.
He said it was also important to consider your needs for your next home, including required living space, easy up-keep, safety and security, and proximity to local amenities.
Additionally, speaking to the sales manager to help coordinate selling your home with the purchase of your retirement property can be a huge help in ensuring a seamless transition.
“Making the move into retirement living is making the decision to upsize your lifestyle,” Mr Grassa said.
“The most common thing we hear from residents — across all our villages — is that they wished they’d made the decision to move earlier.”
To discover more about Lendlease Retirement Living, including Abervale Retirement Village and Tannoch Brae Retirement Village, phone 1800 550 550 or visit retirementbylendlease.com.au