The Accessibility Benefits of Moving into a Luxury Retirement Village Home

As we age, our needs and lifestyle preferences change. One of the most significant considerations for many is the suitability of their living environment. For those contemplating the next chapter of life, moving into a luxury retirement village home offers a range of benefits, particularly when it comes to adapting to the physical challenges that can come with ageing.

ACCESSIBILITY: A CRITICAL CONSIDERATION FOR AGEING IN PLACE

A major challenge for older adults is finding a home that meets their changing mobility needs. According to a 2012 study by The Government Office for Science, only 5% of homes had the features necessary for disabled access. This means that a staggering 95% of homes in existence at that time were not equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or other disabilities.

DELVING DEEPER INTO THIS 95%:

• More than half of these homes would require structural or major structural alterations to become accessible.
• A quarter of these homes are not adaptable at all, making it nearly impossible to modify them for better access.
• Only 12% of the homes in this category would need minor work to provide reasonable access for disabled people.

THE ADVANTAGES OF A LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAGE HOME

Given these statistics, the benefits of moving into a luxury retirement village become even more apparent. These homes are specifically designed with ageing individuals in mind, offering several key advantages:

1. Purpose-Built Accessibility: Luxury retirement villages are constructed with accessibility at the forefront. Homes are typically designed to be step-free, with wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and kitchen layouts that accommodate those with mobility aids. This eliminates the need for costly and disruptive modifications.
2. Safety and Security: These communities are equipped with safety features such as emergency call systems, non-slip flooring, and handrails in strategic locations. The peace of mind that comes from knowing help is always nearby is invaluable.
3. Ageing in Place: Moving into a home that is already adapted for your needs allows you to age in place comfortably. You won’t need to worry about making major renovations down the road as your needs change.
4. Community and Socialisation: Beyond the physical benefits, retirement villages offer a built-in community. Social interaction is a vital component of healthy ageing, and being surrounded by peers can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
5. Maintenance-Free Living: Many luxury retirement villages offer maintenance and housekeeping services. This means you can enjoy your retirement without the hassle of home repairs, lawn care, or other chores that may become burdensome.

THE REALITY OF MODIFYING EXISTING HOMES

For those living in traditional homes, the prospect of modifying a house for accessibility can be daunting. As mentioned, more than half of these homes would require major structural changes, such as widening doorways, installing ramps, or even reconfiguring entire rooms. These renovations can be expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive to daily life.

Moreover, a quarter of homes are simply not adaptable, which can force individuals to move at a time when they may already be dealing with health or mobility issues. Even in the best-case scenario, where only minor modifications are needed, the process still requires time, effort, and financial investment.

Moving into a luxury retirement village home such as Rangeford Villages is an investment in your comfort, safety, and well-being. Our communities are designed with the specific needs of ageing individuals in mind, offering a level of accessibility that most traditional homes lack. By choosing a living environment that supports your lifestyle as you age, you can enjoy the benefits of a community, security, and ease of living without the stress and expense of modifying an existing home. With so few homes in the general market equipped for accessibility, the tailored design of luxury retirement village homes makes them an appealing choice for a fulfilling and hassle-free retirement.