How to choose a retirement community

So, you’re getting on a bit and your home and garden is becoming more of a burden and a chore than the joy it once used to be when the family gathered around the kitchen table for long leisurely family dinners.

As we get older our needs change, our health and mobility may be affected and so where we live could make the difference between a quality and fulfilling life in later years contrasted to one that becomes more and more frustrating and burdensome.

The decision to move is a difficult one so we spoke to specialist developer of retirement communities Birchgrove, for advice on what to think about when considering a move to a retirement community.

What is a retirement community?

Retirement communities are essentially housing developments specially designed for people in later life. It combines self-contained accommodation with care on site. Sometimes it is also known as assisted living, extra care housing or housing with care.

The great thing about Birchgrove retirement communities are the varied range of quality communal facilities also available. This includes a restaurant, club room, snug bar, wellness suite, landscape gardens and greenhouse for those keen on gardening and much more. Think residential accommodation meets country club!

Who might a retirement community appeal to?

Anyone who wants to enjoy their later years doing the things they love with like-minded people. No more property maintenance or keeping up with the garden to worry about, and you’ll have the reassurance that support is available as and when you need it.

Birchgrove offer all their apartments for rent because they believe that buying an apartment later in life isn’t always the best option. Renting offers the benefits of independent living but without all the stress of owning a house. So how do you choose the perfect retirement community? Here are some helpful tips

Top tips

It’s worth making a list of the questions you want answered, so that when you’re looking around you can address each one. You may want to consider:

• The location of the retirement community – is it within easy access of family and friends?
• What facilities are available onsite?
• What security and safety features are in place?
• Are there any restrictions on bringing your pet?
• What care packages are available and costs?
• Where is the nearest town or village and what amenities are available?
• Transport links and how accessible are they? Can you bring your own car? Is there parking available?
• What additional costs are there? For example, management fee, service charges, ground rent, exit fee, etc.

Retirement communities are fast becoming popular and it’s not hard to see why! It’s the chance to enjoy your later years independently, within stylish surroundings and enjoying fantastic facilities. If this sounds like you then a Birchgrove retirement community could be for you. 

To find out more about Birchgrove and what they offer visit www.birchgrove.life call 020 3929 5599 to speak to one of their retirement advisors.