Tips for choosing a retirement home
There is a lot to consider when looking for the right property to settle down in for your retirement.
Determine your budget
Budgets cannot be overlooked when choosing a retirement community. It’s
important to decide how much money you are willing to spend, and know what monthly costs are, like levies, security fees and the annual rate of escalation. You also have to be prepared to spend for the amenities and services you opt for.
Health care and mobility needs
Choose a retirement community that provides healthcare services, preferably tailored to individual medical needs. Many retirement estates provide access to home-based care and frail care. Even though you might be feeling strong now, it’s wise to choose an apartment or house without staircases and with areas that are wheelchair friendly or suitable for other mobility needs in the possible future.
Locality of amenities
Proximity to amenities both inside and outside the retirement estate is important. Externally, you may want to be close to hospitals, shopping hubs, churches, entertainment, social spots and main transport routes. Within the estate, look for recreation and lifestyle facilities such as gardens and walking routes, frail-care and on-site medical services, as well as other conveniences such as a hair salon, wellness spa, library or social clubs.
Secure your safety
Ensure that the retirement estate you buy into provides 24-hour security and patrols, access control, perimeter electric fencing, number plate recognition, CCTV surveillance and personal emergency buttons linking you to on-site security and medical services.
Food
Dining services are a huge factor in choosing a retirement community. Ask if there are dedicated chefs or if meals are produced in mass and either served in the dining room or available as take-outs.
Recreation services
A good recreation schedule is essential for any successful retirement community. It promotes socialisation and gives you something to look forward to each day. When choosing your retirement community look for opportunities for exercise, cultural pursuits, sightseeing, religious and entertainment services.
* Photo: Freepik
