Retirement living is all about living independently – but if you need additional help, there are options available.
Some retirement villages also offer serviced apartments as a way to support residents whose care needs are increasing but want to stay in a village environment.
Serviced apartments, agedcare101 states, are exactly what they are called – an apartment or unit where a person in need receive services ranging from cleaning, fresh linen and meals. Some serviced apartments also provide low-level allied care support.
Generally, serviced apartments have a separate bedroom and include a private bathroom, kitchenette, and living area.
The village operator does the housekeeping, maintenance, and provides meals every day, while allowing the resident to maintain their independence. Serviced apartments are for when your care needs are increasing.
The essential message is that the resident continues to live independently but with assistance.
More retirement living operators now offer access to home care services, which means along with housekeeping and meals, could include help with showering and dressing, medication management or wound management. This can be funded privately or through a Government-funded Home Care Package.
Services apartments do cost more than traditional retirement living, depending on the package the resident chooses. It’s important to check what options are available before you agree to enter the community.
All fees paid before, during and after living in a retirement village must be specified in your entry agreement contract.