MOVING ON WITH VIGOUR

Forget the rocking chair – today’s retirees intend to pursue active lifestyles, and need an opportunity to do so

THE RETIREMENT property market is quite possibly the most evolved segment in recent years as retirees no longer see their golden years as a time to merely enjoy the quiet life, but to actually live their best lives.

Today’s retirement property offerings are keeping pace with these changing outlooks. Gone are the days when retirement homes were simply cottages scattered in park-like surroundings or apartment buildings dedicated to older citizens, or where retirees spent their days watching TV, knitting or gardening.

These pastimes are, of course, still enjoyed by many over-60s, and beautiful gardens are still hallmarks of the ideal retirement setting, but today’s retirees are after much more: they want to go to the beach, to play golf, to gym, to cycle, to run, and to meet friends.

Unfortunately, there are not enough attractive retirement places available, nor at the right prices for most South African retirees.

This fact is recognised by the country’s leading retirement village developers, who are furiously trying to meet the demand.

Stand-alone retirement villages and those within established lifestyle estates are being constructed to meet the growing need for tranquil yet exciting living environments. Life Right options are also increasingly being offered to help

PICTURE: THE VILLAGE ACTIVE Retirees are looking to live a healthy lifestyle and are drawn to accommodation such as The Village at the Langebaan Country Estate. It offers residents an 18-hole Black KnightDesign golf course, a driving range, a mashie course, two outdoor swimming pools, a bowls club, tennis courts and extensive running and cycling paths. |