10 Top Benefits of Living in a Retirement Village
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused us all to reconsider our priorities, hasn’t it? For many of us, this implies a renewed focus on health and well-being, keeping dear ones close, and having support from the community. We are connecting with people and making efforts to keep ourselves healthy. We have come to the realisation that the material things we were chasing don’t matter when the question is of our health and life.
If these factors are important to you as well, then you should understand how living in a Retirement Village Shepparton or the suburb you live in can improve your health, your relationships with loved ones and your sense of community.
According to the Property Council of Australia, there were over 2,300 retirement villages in Australia in 2014, with around 184,000 seniors living in them. However, other estimates suggest that by 2025, the number of people living in retirement villages would have doubled, with up to 382,000 people living in retirement villages.
If you or a loved one is thinking about leaving the family home, then have a look at these ten incredible health benefits of living in a retirement village.
1. Independence
Many individuals mistakenly believe that relocating to Retirement Homes in Shepparton or the suburb you reside in is the same as being sent to an “old people’s home” when this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Living in a vibrant and dynamic community allows people to maintain their health, independence and mobility for much longer.
According to studies, residents in retirement villages enter an aged care institution five years later than those who enter from their own homes. That’s five or more years of socialising, spending quality time with your family, including grandkids, and typically living a more independent and contented life. That’s quite incredible!
2. Community of like-minded people
Many retirees are single or live far away from their friends and family. A retirement village will make you feel like you are a part of a community of people who share your interests. These are persons that are in a similar stage of life and are looking for companionship.
3. Improved mental health
According to studies, one in five senior Australians suffers from social isolation, which negatively impacts their mental health and can increase the risk of depression. A retirement village’s lifestyle is specifically designed to combat social isolation and develop a sense of belonging and community.
Residents can engage with one another through a variety of social activities and events, which has a good impact on their health and well-being. In fact, according to McCrindle Baynes research, of over 5,000 retirement village inhabitants, 46% report improved mental health as a result of moving into a village.
4. Flexibility
Retirement Communities in Shepparton or the suburb you reside provide a choice of lifestyle options to fit your preferences. Independent living units, sometimes known as villas, are meant for persons who need little to no help with daily tasks.
However, if you require some assistance with daily activities, such as meal preparation, laundry or cleaning, but are otherwise capable, it may be worthwhile to consider an assisted living unit in a retirement community. Many retirement communities provide personal care and assisted living services.
5. Less visits to the hospital
When compared to seniors in the general population, retirement villages actually minimise the number of ambulance calls and hospital admissions due to their specialised design and skilled staff. Minimising hospital visits, which can be a stressful and painful experience for everyone involved, including friends and family, is a big benefit.
6. Convenience
Unfortunately, as you become older, maintaining a home becomes more difficult, unsafe and frustrating. People who live in retirement communities are relieved of the worry of home and yard maintenance, as they are frequently handled by the retirement community’s employees.
In addition, many retirement homes provide handrails, non-slip mats and motion-sensor alarm systems to make living easier for the elderly.
7. Affordable living
You can take advantage of the services provided by a retirement community at a far cheaper cost than you could if you paid for them separately. When you live in a Retirement Village Shepparton or in the suburb you live in, you have easy access to medical care, cleaning, therapy and transportation services.
8. Fewer doctor visits
The average senior Australian visits a GP six to seven times per year, however thanks to the services and staff available at many villages, this number is lower. According to a Grant Thornton report, 60% of retirement villages provide some type of on-site medical care.
9. Reduced risk of dementia
According to research, participating in meaningful activities lowers the risk of stress-related disorders and dementia. Purposeful hobbies, such as music, painting, meditation, reading and arts and crafts, are very beneficial in improving health and wellness.
10. Boosts longevity
According to a Swedish study, being socially active can add up to five years to women’s life expectancy and six years to men. As per the research, a retirement village is a perfect place to improve your longevity through social relationships and participation in sporting and social activities and interests.
After going through the above benefits, the path appears to be clear: living in a retirement village is likely to improve your health and happiness, as well as your sense of fulfilment. And a life well lived is something to strive for! Get in touch with a retirement village near you to enjoy the benefits and start living a fulfilled life.
Here in Australia, there are several options in terms of retirement homes. Which of them is the right option for you? Here are some points to consider.
