When comparing retirement villages, there’s a lot to consider. This is a big decision to make later in life because it’s about finding a place that provides for your lifestyle and gives you a real sense of purpose, community and support for the years ahead. To make it easier, we've broken down seven key things to focus on, helping you weigh up your options and choose a retirement village that suits your needs now and in the future.

Get set to downsize to a retirement village with these top tips

Susie Dash, Director at Task Tamers, loves helping people to declutter, organise and simplify their homes and lives. Along with her team, she works primarily with retirees who are looking to downsize their family home into retirement living.

Should you choose a house, apartment, or retirement village?

So you’ve retired from permanent work. Congratulations! The kids have left home… the alarm clock has been permanently shelved. Your schedule is free (or as free as you want it to be). You might be walking around your home thinking, “Goodness, we have a lot of space!”

Understanding the costs involved in moving to a retirement community

Having been a financial planner for over 20 years, Brad Monk is a huge advocate for the retirement village lifestyle. As the director of LifePath Financial Planning, Brad specialises in helping people in the over-50 age group make decisions around retirement communities and aged care.

Some points to cover in this important conversation

Moving from your family home to a retirement village is a big step. Once you’ve made this important decision, it’s a good idea to share it with those close to you. After all, your adult children or family may be on board and supportive, or they might not understand why you want to move from the family home into a retirement community.

How to answer this important question for retirees or the soon-to-be retired

When – or if – you should move into a retirement community is a big decision. That’s why it’s vital that you take your time and ask some key questions, so that you can make the best choice for your personal situation.

Could you be a member of the Sandwich Generation?

You’ve no doubt heard of the Baby Boomers – in fact, you might even have been raised by one. You’ve probably also heard of Generation X, Gen Y (aka Millennials), and now Generation Z.

But have you heard of the Sandwich Generation? Chances are, if you’re reading this news post you could be a member!

Tips to help you find your ideal community

Moving into a retirement village is an important decision, and you want to get it right.

With a little preparation beforehand, you can avoid some of the common mistakes people make when deciding on which retirement community will best suit their needs.

If you go in knowing what ‘not to do’ it will make the decision-making process a lot easier and more enjoyable… as it should be!

Start the conversation while your parents are still active and healthy

You have the best intentions for your parents. You want them to have a happy, healthy, fulfilling life in retirement. You imagine them free from the burdens of maintaining a family home; living in a safe, secure community with like-minded people of a similar age and plenty of fun and interesting things to do each day.

Think about these 5 points before you decide

Today’s retirement villages are more like luxury resorts than the ‘old folk’s homes’ of the past. They boast modern, spacious homes and villas, large entertainment areas, libraries and workshops, and a full range of activities to keep any retiree fit and active.