Transitioning into retirement is exciting! It’s a time filled with new beginnings and adventures, after what probably feels like years of sleeping, eating and working with the occasional holiday thrown in. But with so many ways to spend your retirement years, the prospect of figuring things out is almost as daunting as choosing a career path back when you were 16. We’ve written this article to break down one piece of the puzzle, helping you determine if life in a retirement community, where you can live independently, is the right choice for you.
First things first, what is retirement living?
Typically speaking, a retirement village is a community of people of at least 55 years of age living in homes specifically designed to make life easier and more enjoyable, while offering a host of benefits from increased security to being part of a welcoming community, where you can build long-lasting friendships.
There are various retirement living options available, each designed to cater to different preferences and needs.
At St Ives, residents are over the age of 60 and have taken the leap to downsize, swapping household chores and garden maintenance tasks for a lifestyle of hobbies, and new experiences. Each of our villages is home to a range of amenities, from arts and crafts centres, and bowling greens to hairdressers, gyms and garden allotments.
What are the benefits of retirement villages?
Life in a St Ives retirement village allows you to enjoy vibrant communities with a strong sense of belonging. Residents can participate in village life as much or as little as they like, and invite loved ones to stay and meet friendly faces in the community clubhouses.
Types of Retirement Communities
When it comes to retirement villages, there are three common types.
Independent Living Communities
Allow you to enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own home or apartment while benefiting from access to community facilities and services. It’s the perfect blend of independence and convenience for those seeking an active lifestyle with supportive resources.
All St Ives villages are independent living communities, should you begin to require additional support, care visits can be arranged with external providers.
Assisted Living Communities
You’ll receive assistance with daily tasks and activities, all while maintaining a level of independence. These communities provide the support you need to live a fulfilling life with help readily available for personal care and well-being.
Aged Care Communities
Offering around-the-clock care and support, these communities are designed for those who need continuous assistance. Whether it’s medical care or helping with everyday tasks, aged care communities ensure safety, comfort, and a nurturing environment.
What are the accommodation options?
Whether you’re seeking a low-maintenance living space or a more private and secure residence, there are a range of living options that cater to your needs.
Our thoughtfully designed homes and apartments ensure a comfortable lifestyle while allowing you the freedom and autonomy you desire. Choose from 2-3 bed homes with private gardens or embrace low-maintenance living in state-of-the-art apartments.
Safety and Security in Retirement Villages
Feeling safe and secure is essential for peace of mind in retirement, and villages are designed to offer just that, along with a sense of community.
On-Site Staff and Security
With friendly on-site staff available to help with any concerns or needs, you’ll always have someone nearby. The secure living environment, equipped with emergency response systems, ensures that help is just a call away. Plus, having regular opportunities to connect with both staff and your fellow neighbours means you’re never alone—there’s always someone to offer support or simply share a chat.
Emergency Response Systems
Knowing that you have quick access to emergency services gives you one less thing to worry about. At St Ives emergency response systems are found in all homes and common areas, making sure you can get help whenever needed. Should you require emergency support, a press of the button will put you in touch with the emergency services.
Secure Living Environments
Living in a secure, well-monitored environment means you can focus on enjoying life without constantly worrying about safety. Whether you’re after a lock-and-leave lifestyle and are looking to be part of a community that is happy to watch the house or would like added peace of mind in a gated community, retirement villages are a popular choice.
Lifestyle and Wellbeing in Retirement Villages
Activities and events
Retirement villages offer a wide range of social activities and events to cater to different interests and hobbies. Whether you’re passionate about fitness, arts, or socialising, there’s something for everyone. You might find yourself joining an exercise class in the morning, attending an art workshop in the afternoon, and wrapping up the day with a book club meeting. The goal is to create a vibrant and engaging community that encourages residents to stay active, connected, and fulfilled.
At St Ives, our village manager and resident committees play a crucial role in organising these events and activities, ensuring there’s always something to look forward to. From social gatherings to hobby groups, the variety of options means you can participate as much or as little as you like, making it easy to find your niche within the community.
Health and wellness programs
Maintaining your health and wellness is a top priority in retirement villages. Many villages have comprehensive health and wellness programs designed to support both your physical and mental well-being. These programs often include fitness classes, health seminars, and access to on-site health services, ensuring you have the resources you need to stay healthy and active.
Social connections and friendships
One of the most rewarding aspects of living in a retirement village is the opportunity to form lasting friendships and social connections. Village life is designed to be social and engaging, with numerous opportunities to meet new people and get involved in community activities.
The friendly community atmosphere at St Ives fosters a sense of belonging, making it easy to build meaningful relationships. The supportive environment ensures that you’re never alone, with plenty of opportunities to share experiences and create new memories with fellow residents.
Where’s the right location?
While the majority of St Ives Villages are located in Perth’s metro area, we have regional and coastal retirement living options, perfect for those looking to embrace retirement in a new location.
Regional options
Discover the benefits of regional living at St Ives Albany, where a lifelong dream to retire in a stunning location becomes reality. You’ll also have access to essential community facilities and services, making life in a regional setting both convenient and enjoyable.
Urban Options
If you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life while having the security of a retirement village, St Ives’ metropolitan locations, such as Carine or Jolimont offer the best of both worlds. Choose from various home types and amenity options that best suit your desired lifestyle.
How to choose the right retirement village
Choosing the right retirement village involves several important factors.
First, think about location. Consider whether you prefer a regional, urban, or coastal setting that aligns with your lifestyle and personal preferences. Each option offers its unique atmosphere and benefits.
Next, evaluate the amenities and services offered by different villages. Look for places that provide a variety of facilities and activities that match your interests, whether it’s fitness centres, social clubs, or leisure programs.
When it comes to cost and ownership, it’s essential to understand the payment structures and ownership models available. Consider ongoing fees, charges, and how they fit into your long-term financial plan.
Take the time to thoroughly research different retirement communities and their local areas. This will help you find the best match for your specific needs and desires. Once you have a shortlist, visit the villages and their local area in person to get a real sense of the community and available facilities. Meet with staff and residents to ask questions and gain insights into daily life in the village.
We invite prospective residents and their families to our village events to gain first-hand experience from those who already call St Ives home. If you’d like to gain insight before attending an event, check out our annual Happiness Report. Each year we conduct surveys in each of our villages to see if residents are content with their retirement lifestyle and identify areas we can make improvements.