Retirement villages and aged care centres: what’s the difference?

If you’ve wound up here in your search for answers, you’re on the right track!

It’s never too early or too late to start thinking about independent living and aged care. Being well-informed to make decisions when the time comes will help you be in more control of your own future.

So what’s the difference between a retirement village and aged care centre, and which solution is right for you?

Retirement villages

A retirement village is a purpose-built housing complex that offers a range of accommodation options, services and facilities for older Australians.

Retirement villages come in many shapes and sizes and can range from small one-or-two-bedroom units, to four-bedroom villas and high-rise apartments.

Services, facilities and on-site support varies too. Some retirement villages can include a pool, library, golf course, theatre, organised social events, on-site concierge and 24-hour emergency assistance.

Retirement villages are best for people who are still able to live independently in their own home, but want to enjoy the benefits of living in a community with other older Australians.

As your needs change, you can access allied health services at most retirement villages, as well as community transport and home care services. Plus, unlike most family homes, retirement villages feature age-friendly designs. This means there’s plenty of room for things like mobility aids and hand rails to support you.

Most retirement villages offer cheaper accommodation than similar sized-homes in the same area, however there are other costs associated with living in a retirement village. For a good overview of costs associated with retirement village living, check out our pricing and rates page which explains a number of options.

It’s always best to get independent legal and financial advice before making a decision to move into a retirement village to make sure it suits your individual needs and financial situation.