Today’s retirement villages offer a full lifestyle package

LUSH green lawns, landscaped gardens, cycling and running tracks, gyms, swimming pools, bowling greens, tennis courts and golf courses are some of the attractions luring retirees to new age retirement villages and estates.

In addition to these lifestyle features, holistic healthcare and cutting-edge health technology are being prioritised, says David Britz, sales and marketing director for Multi Spectrum Property (MSP), developers of the Buh-Rein Retirement Village.

Open to residents from the age of 50, the 87.62ha Buh-Rein Estate in Cape Town’s northern suburbs epitomises all that today’s over-60s are after, including its own clubhouse with two restaurants, a heated pool, wellness salon, hairdresser, beautician and massage therapy.

“There is also a gymnasium with shower facilities, deli, library with internet access, bar/refreshment area, courtyard with water feature and ample seating, lapa with indoor and outdoor braai facilities, and a function hall which can accommodate

500 people,” says Riaan Roos, MSP chief executive.

The Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate also knows what retirees are after with the world-class wine estate offering a hotel, cottages, spa, cellar, restaurant, pool, tennis courts and walking and jogging trails. In addition to top-class security, the estate also focuses on world-class healthcare.

The major difference between the former traditional retirement properties and those being developed today boils down to these lifestyle changes.

Craig Scott, of The Village at Langebaan Country Estate, says retirees want to be able to downsize their homes without sacrificing their lifestyles.

“Progressive retirement village operators have a clear understanding of today’s retirees’ wants and needs and are setting new standards in their services and facilities. These include the provision of quality health and frail care, security, worldclass hospitality and technology, along with village and home maintenance and refurbishment.”

Scott says residents of The Village at Langebaan Country Estate not only benefit from sport and recreational facilities, including golf, bowls, tennis and gym, but also gain access to restaurants, salons, coffee shops and spas.

Other valued trends of modern retirement living, he says, are multi-generational communities, and digital advancement in fitness and healthcare.

GOOD YEARS Retirees do not want tosacrifice their way of life.