Considerations When Choosing A Retirement Village

Retirement villages are an option for most seniors. These facilities provide a sense of community and high-quality amenities to seniors who wish to live in comfort and luxury once they retire. Background research will help you choose a suitable retirement village. This guide is all you need when selecting a retirement village. 

What Experiences Does The Village Offer?

Since you will spend a considerable amount of time in the village, it is only fitting that you assess whether you will be comfortable in the facility. Examine the following: 

  • What is the demographic of seniors living at the facility? For instance, what is their average age? Are they affiliated with a particular religion or occupation? What social activities do seniors in the village enjoy? It could be barbeques, joint exercises or charity activities.
  • Does the retirement village have recreational facilities such as tennis courts, golf courses or country clubs?
  • Does the village management organise essential services such as caregiving and housekeeping?
  • If you or your spouse have a long-term illness, consider retirement villages close to nursing homes. This way, the ailing spouse can easily transition to specialised care and enjoy the company of their loved one. 

What Are The Company's Conditions?

Some seniors will quickly join the retirement village if it meets the above criteria. However, the company's terms are a vital consideration. Start by checking the terms of ownership. In most cases, the company owns the property. However, you could be entitled to a share of its capital gains when moving out of the village. Nevertheless, this is not a guarantee. When reviewing the retirement village contract, ask your lawyer to negotiate this condition if you intend to spend several years in the village. 

Your next concern would be the additional fees. In most cases, residents are required to pay a property maintenance fee that helps keep the shared amenities in excellent condition. Assess whether extra services such as housekeeping, transport or concierge are included in the standard package. It helps you determine whether your finances allow you to live in the complex comfortably. Finally, check the terms of contract termination. For instance, will you incur an exit fee if you cancel the contract prematurely? Moreover, check how much money the company will refund once you move out of the village. 

Does The Company Have A Waitlist? 

Some retirement villages have a waitlist. Typically, you send an application and the company conducts background research into whether you are the right fit. If you tick all their boxes, the company approves your application, and you can buy or lease property in the complex. While a waitlist could seem like red tape to most people, the process goes a long way in ensuring the residents do not pose a threat to each other. Moreover, it ensures proper placement inside the village.  

For more info, visit a local retirement living center. 

Share