What is the difference between retirement living and aged care?
When it comes to living options in your later years, there are two terms that regularly come up: retirement living and residential aged care. While both are similar in that they provide supported living for seniors, the type of support and the lifestyle they offer can vary greatly.
Both have distinct benefits and understanding these can help you make informed decisions for yourself or your loved one.
What is retirement living?
Retirement living is designed for seniors who are still able to live independently but may want to simplify life by reducing the burden of property upkeep. Choosing a retirement village, such as those offered by Anglicare, allows residents to enjoy a comfortable, low-maintenance lifestyle. This means no more mowing the lawn, handling repairs, or worrying about home maintenance.
What are the benefits of retirement living?
Retirement villages offer a vibrant community of like-minded people, providing social opportunities and activities tailored to your interests. Whether it's a fitness class, a book club, or a hobby group, there's no shortage of ways to stay active and engaged. Village staff and friendly neighbours also ensure a safe, secure environment, giving you peace of mind while maintaining your independence.
The best part? Retirement living allows you to continue making your own choices. You decide how you want to spend your days, whether that’s pursuing hobbies, socialising, or simply enjoying the serenity of your home. It’s about enjoying life on your terms while being part of a supportive and welcoming community.
What is residential aged care?
Residential aged care provides personalised, around-the-clock support for seniors who require higher levels of assistance. Aged care homes, also known as nursing homes, offer professional care with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and eating. In addition, seniors receive dedicated healthcare and well-being support in a safe and caring environment.
What are the benefits of residential aged care?
Residential aged care ensures ongoing personalised care for those who need specialised support. For those who require constant assistance due to chronic health conditions or mobility issues, residential aged care ensures they are cared for by qualified staff who can address both medical and personal needs.
Residential aged care provides a structured level of care, it is designed to foster connection and quality of life by offering social activities. Many residential aged care communities aim to provide a homelike environment where residents feel valued and respected, even as their needs evolve.
Key differences between retirement living and residential aged care:
Lifestyle and independence: Retirement living is ideal for seniors who want to maintain their independence and continue an active lifestyle. In contrast, residential aged care provides dedicated and personalised support in daily assistance or health management.
Level of support: Retirement villages focus on providing security and convenience, but seniors can live without significant care needs. Residential aged care offers personalised assistance, from medical care to daily living support, ensuring residents feel safe and well cared for and able to do things that bring them joy.
Community and social engagement: Both options emphasise social connections and meaningful connections. Retirement living provides residents with a range of events and activities, allowing them to choose how involved they want to be. In the same way, residential aged care communities also offer enriching programs and social opportunities to support residents’ interests and abilities, ensuring they feel connected and engaged.
Is retirement living or residential aged care right for you?
The choice between retirement living and residential aged care depends on your current health, needs, and lifestyle preferences. If you are still relatively independent but looking to downsize and enjoy a community-focused environment, retirement living may be the right choice. If daily tasks are becoming challenging due to health concerns and more specialised care is needed, residential aged care provides compassionate care tailored to your needs.
And remember, the decision is not final. While many people transition from retirement living to residential aged care as their needs evolve, some may find ways to regain independence with the right support and continue to live fulfilling lives in either setting. It’s important to explore the available choices and talk with family members, healthcare providers, or community services to find the best fit for your situation.
Whether it’s maintaining independence in a retirement village or receiving professional care within a welcoming residential aged care community, the goal is always to ensure a comfortable, fulfilling life at every stage of ageing.
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Explore Anglicare’s 23 retirement villages across Sydney and beyond to find a welcoming community that suits your lifestyle and needs.
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.