Across Australia, almost 200,000 older Australians call a retirement village home and another 130,000 live in land lease communities.

It is a major decision and Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) CEO Tom Symondson has listed five key factors to consider to ensure you choose the best retirement village.

  • Amenities / facilities

“Consider what amenities and facilities are important to you in a retirement village. Many villages offer recreational options such as swimming pools, gyms and bowling greens. On-site services such as hair salons, libraries and cafes can add convenience and enhance the community atmosphere. Identify which amenities are most important to you and ensure the village you choose meets those needs. Many new developments and service models have emerged and grown in popularity, such as Land Lease Communities. These communities are known for their access to premium amenities,” Tom said.

        2) Health and Support Services  

“Healthcare and support services may be essential to you as you age. Investigate the care services provided within the village. With the increasing popularity of home care in retirement village settings, it is worth exploring whether the village operates its own home care services or partners with reputable third-party providers to deliver these services. Some villages have co-located facilities with residential aged care. This can ensure a seamless transition if you care needs change over time. This integrated approach can ensure peace of mind and allows you to age in place.”

Tom Symondson (right) with South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton

            3) Financial Considerations 

“A big hurdle for downsizers is the confusion around exit fees, which are standard in retirement villages. The exit fee is simply the ‘lease payment’ for the period of time you spend at the village. Most states in Australia now provide village comparison documents to help prospective residents make informed decisions and compare different villages based on standardised criteria, making it easier to understand the financial obligations and benefits each village offers . For those considering other options such as land lease communities, Commonwealth Rental Assistance may be available to help offset rental fees. It is essential to do thorough research and figure out what is best for you, considering both the financial implications and the lifestyle benefits each option provides.”

               4) Sense of Community 

“The sense of community and overall culture of the village can significantly impact your quality of life. Spend time visiting the village, talking to current residents and getting a feel for the spirit and atmosphere. Research increasingly shows that retirement living is associated with a positive quality of life, bringing significant benefits such as a sense of safety, companionship and access to support. This supportive community environment can enhance emotional well-being and provide a network of friends and neighbours who share similar interests and experiences, making your retirement years more fulfilling and enjoyable.”

                 5) Accreditation

The Property Council’s division Retirement Living Council has the Code of Conduct, which is a commitment to high standards and ensuring that residents have the experience they deserve.

ACCPA has the Australian Retirement Village Accreditation Scheme (ARVAS), an accreditation program that assesses various aspects of village operations, including governance, communication, corporate systems and service delivery.

“Choosing the right retirement village or seniors housing option involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle, health needs, financial situation, accommodation preferences and social desires. Everyone is different, so there is no wrong or right answer – what works for one person may not work for another,” Tom said.