Seven Types of Retirement Options For All Stages of Life

There isn’t a one size fits all approach to retirement living – and thankfully there are a variety of options to find the perfect retirement solution.

Here are the most common styles of retirement living, you can choose from:

1. Downsizing

Downsizing from your current living situation can come in many forms. You may decide to downsize from your family home into a smaller house, villa, townhouse or apartment or relocate to a whole new type of lifestyle.

Downsizing to a smaller property in retirement is usually less expensive, which can reduce mortgage payments and maximise long-term savings. A smaller home is also easier (and more economical) to maintain and – depending on the location – be more convenient to public transport and services.

The best approach to successful downsizing is to do your homework. When you know your options, clear financial picture and vision for your future, then you can make the best possible decision for retirement.

2. Independent Living (Over 50’s Lifestyle Villages)

Independent living provides retirees with the freedom to enjoy retirement on their terms. Residents live, just as they would in their own home, but enjoy a range of added benefits such as resort-style facilities, regular activities, social events and garden maintenance services, all within a secure environment.

This option has become increasingly popular with Australians over the age of 55 as it provides complete independence and flexibility to come and go, yet know that help is never far away, should they need it.

3. Serviced Apartments

Residents in serviced apartments still live independently, but with a little more added support than an independent lifestyle village.

Usually housed within one building (similar to a hotel), residents occupy private apartments with the benefit of services including daily meals, weekly cleaning and support from a personal care assistant and 24 hour on-site staff.

Residents can come and go freely plus access to the retirement village’s facilities, social events and group outings. Serviced apartments are the perfect choice if you require extra support, without infringing on your independence.

4. Supported Living Apartments

Supported living apartments are similar to serviced apartment living, but with increased support and assistance.

Residents have access to prepared meals, apartment cleaning, and linen and laundry service, plus the option to receive help with showering, dressing and taking medication, if required.  Similarly, they also enjoy a choice of social activities and outings via the village bus service.

Supported living apartments are perfect for retirees needs more day-to-day support and 24/7 access to emergency or ‘hands on’ living assistance.

5. Home Care

For those retirees who prefer to continue living independently in their homes as they age, there is the option of getting help with daily tasks via home care support services.

You may be eligible to receive either individual services or a tailored package of services such as:

  • help with showering and getting dressed;
  • transport;
  • simple modifications to your home, like handrails or ramps;
  • nursing, physiotherapy and other care;
  • provided prepared meals;
  • house cleaning and gardening duties;
  • equipment like walking frames; and
  • organisation of social activities and outings

For more information about home care visit: www.myagedcare.gov.au

6. Aged Care (Nursing Homes)

For elderly retirees who may need full assistance with day-to-day tasks and medical attention – an aged care home is usually the best option.

Whether you need extra assistance due to illness, disability, or changes to your circumstances, the aged care staff is there to assist.

Aged care residents receive help with daily needs (cleaning, cooking, laundry); personal care (dressing, grooming, toilet); and 24-hour nursing (wound care, catheter care etc) – ensuring peace of mind for both the resident and their families.

7. Respite Care

Whether you are recovering from a hospital stay, illness, or your family or caregiver is away, respite care is a viable option that provides support and companionship to retirees.

Designed to provide short-term accommodation in a comfortable ‘home away from home’ environment, it allows residents to enjoy relaxed and secure accommodation with the support of dedicated staff who are on site 24 hours.

Residents in respite care are provided all meals, apartment cleaning and linen laundry, plus some specialised respite villages also help with showering, dressing and taking medication.

Your Retirement Options

Whether you chose to downsize your family house, embrace a new lifestyle with like-minded people or simply not have to worry about managing the day-to-day by yourself, there will be the perfect retirement option to suit your needs.

Looking to explore the lifestyle community option? Explore our website on www.visitlatitude25.com.au or call us on 1800 0250 025 for more information and/or to schedule your visit.

If you’re planning to be in the area consider taking advantage of Latitude25’s complimentary two-night stay at one of Hervey Bay’s Beachfront Caravan Parks followed by a tour and talk about Latitude25 – the newest fully planned over 50s lifestyle and secure gated community in sunny Hervey Bay that is fully RV-catered.