Retirement homes play an important role in improving the health and quality of life for senior citizens. They provide a safe environment that facilitates social interaction and access to necessary healthcare and personal care services. This relieves families of caregiving responsibilities and ensures seniors live their retirement years with dignity and comfort. Choosing the right type of retirement home is a significant decision that impacts the health, happiness, and overall well-being of seniors.

1. Assisted living homes
These living facilities are designed specifically for aging individuals who are dealing with health concerns and require assistance. These facilities offer personalized care for their residents, with trained staff available around the clock. The professionals are trained to meet the resident’s needs and assist them with daily tasks. Alternatively, assisted living homes may also have residential care facility teams that care for residents who need continued healthcare aid. These facilities evaluate new residents to determine the specific support and care they need and align their staff accordingly. Key services include dressing and grooming, meals, laundry, housekeeping, transportation, help while using the bathroom, monitoring treatments, and 24/7 emergency care.

2. Independent living retirement communities
Designed exclusively for seniors above a certain age, the accommodation in these communities is generally low-maintenance. They do not restrict the senior resident’s lifestyle or their preference to come and go as they please. This way, independent living communities let residents maintain their autonomy and schedule. Living in a community also means seniors can socialize and build friendships with other residents. While such communities have limited support options to make life easier, healthcare is often excluded from the list of amenities or services that are part of the housing option. Seniors who are self-sufficient and do not need extensive support to carry on with their daily lives can opt for an independent retirement community near them or their family members.

3. Nursing homes
These facilities are designed for older adults who require 24/7 care and assistance, especially if the care needed is from a nurse or other healthcare professionals. Nursing homes provide short- and long-stay options. Seniors recovering from falls, injuries, or surgeries can register themselves in nursing homes. Living options include private rooms, semi-private living, shared rooms, and more. These facilities also have communal spaces like dining rooms. But, if a resident does not prefer having their meals in a communal setting, they can dine in the comfort of their room. Nursing homes also plan social events to improve residents’ well-being and engagement. Seniors can take part in activities and programs that they are interested in.

4. Home care service
Seniors who need care and assistance but prefer to remain in their own homes can sign up for home care services for their retirement. These services provide the required assistance for seniors without compromising their independence and lifestyle. They can maintain their routine while receiving assistance with their daily tasks. They can also choose the type and extent to which they require the assistance. Caregivers provide services ranging from meal cooking and delivery to grooming.

5. Retirement villages
These are independent living communities that provide seniors with various housing options, including apartments, units, and villas. They offer senior residents the opportunity to maintain their lifestyle while developing social ties with others in their age group and relying on each other. Retirement villages offer communal spaces such as gyms, parks, libraries, game rooms, swimming pools, and recreational areas. Some villages also provide additional services like housekeeping, treatment reminders, and personal care assistance for senior residents. Retirement villages seamlessly blend the need for independence and community for seniors while offering a supportive environment and safe residential space.

6. Aging in place
People who want to live in their own homes or with a family member can choose to age in place. The concept was designed to enable older adults to continue living in their community while they age. It eliminates the need for seniors to relocate to purpose-built houses within assisted communities if the idea is unappealing to them. Seniors who are independent and in good health can opt for aging in place. They can receive support from family, friends, and neighbors while looking for in-house caregivers, meal preparation services, home cleaning, and necessary delivery services. Seniors can improve the safety of their existing living facility by installing stair lifts, wheelchair ramps, emergency response systems, and bathroom grab bars. Aging in place provides a sense of independence for seniors that other retirement homes nearby might not fully allow. It is also a cost-friendly alternative for people who want to look at the financial aspects of their choices.

Cost of retirement homes
New Zealand offers a variety of retirement homes that cater to the diverse needs of the country’s senior population. Retirement homes in the country generally fall into several categories, including independent living units, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Most retirement villages charge a weekly fee of 100 to 200 NZD. This expense is in addition to the money one would spend to get a lease or purchase license for the village property. The individuals or their families can later resell the property, and the retirement village operator will deduct 20-30% of the upfront cost they paid. The cost of retirement homes in New Zealand varies significantly based on the level of care provided, the type of retirement home, and the location. Seniors living in a residential care home might have to pay around 1300-1500 NZD weekly, in addition to occupancy fees. Nursing homes or rest homes can be comparatively cheaper as seniors generally occupy these facilities for a short period, and they don’t always provide private quarters for each resident.

To find a good retirement facility that meets seniors’ needs and preferences, one should start by researching housing options online. After shortlisting one’s top picks, one should read reviews and visit potential homes to examine their amenities and atmosphere. Besides, one can consult family, friends, and healthcare professionals for recommendations. This way, one will gain valuable insights that help choose the best housing option.