Which type of retirement community is right for me?
Retirement communities come in all shapes and sizes, to meet the needs of all sorts of people, so it’s important to research the right type of retirement community for you. Whether you’re enticed by the safety of a home that is seamlessly adapted with ageing in mind or the independent lifestyle support that may be on offer, you’re sure to find something to suit. The terminology can be confusing with descriptions including ‘sheltered housing’, ‘extra care’, ‘assisted living’ and ‘retirement village’ being used interchangeably. Our guide will help you get to grips with your retirement home options and understand the differences between the three main types, independent living, assisted living and care homes.
What are senior living communities?
Senior living communities, also known as retirement communities, are made up of a group of properties or accommodation aimed at the over 60s. There are several types of senior living communities, with varying levels of care, services and support on offer.
The three main types of retirement communities
The three main types of retirement communities are independent living, assisted living and care homes. We describe the differences between them below.
1. Independent living communities
Independent living retirement communities are specifically designed for older people who want to live in their own home but with a bit more support on hand. They have an age restriction–meaning that at least one of the people moving into the property must meet an age criterion. This varies but it’s usually over 60.
McCarthy Stone’s independent living developments, known as Retirement Living, offer self-contained homes for complete privacy, with communal areas and gardens where people can socialise if they choose.
Who is an independent living community suitable for?
Independent living communities are suitable for people who can look after themselves but want to downsize to a more practical retirement property. Many people also choose to live in an independent living facility for the sociability, as it allows them to become part of a friendly community with people of a similar age.
What amenities does independent living offer?
These vary according to the individual retirement development, but you should look out for things like:
- Future-proofed homes: low-maintenance, easily accessible retirement properties designed for older adults
- Security and safety features: 24-hour emergency call systems, integral fire detection, integrated alarms, door camera entry (so you can see who it is before answering the door), plus a manager onsite to sort out issues.
- Financial benefits: many people find that downsizing into a modern energy-efficient retirement home saves them money, allowing them to enjoy life to the full.
- Location: close to transport links and amenities such as pubs, supermarkets and leisure centres.
- Community spaces: shared living spaces for relaxing, socialising, parties and events
- Clubs and social events: regular clubs and activities hosted on-site, from book clubs to yoga classes.
2. Assisted living communities
Assisted living, also known as extra-assisted living or extra care housing, is essentially a step up from independent living. You’ll still live independently but can relax knowing that help is available should you ever need it.
Exclusive to the over 70s, our Retirement Living PLUS developments, are an example of assisted living. With Retirement Living PLUS you enjoy all the benefits of a Retirement Living apartment but with thoughtful added amenities and services.
Who is an assisted living community suitable for?
Assisted living is suitable for older people who wish to maintain their independence, with the peace of mind of knowing that help is on hand, should they ever need it.
Homeowners can expect the same community feel as independent living developments but benefit from added extras to help make life more enjoyable.
To aid independence, our assisted living communities provide:
- Security: a manager on-site 24/7 for your security, safety and peace of mind
- On-site eateries: a subsidised chef-run restaurant or bistro serving fresh food and drinks
- Domestic support: one hour a week is included in your service charge but you can add on extra cleaning, laundry services, food shopping and more
- Personal care: bespoke care and support services are available if required
- Communal facilities: these vary but can include things like fitness studios, hairdressing salons, putting greens and arts and crafts rooms.
3. Care homes
A care home or residential care home provides accommodation—usually in the form of a single room or small suite—along with meals and personal care. Care homes are designed for people who rely on continuous support, covering everything from getting dressed to eating.
Nursing homes can be likened to care homes, but tend to offer more support for complex medical needs. They feature qualified nurses on-site, who can administer medicine and provide around-the-clock care.
You can also find care homes that specialise in dementia support. If you are looking for a care home, you can check the quality of care provided on the Care Quality Commission website.
How to choose a retirement community
Choosing the right retirement community will depend on your circumstances. The first step is decide on the level of care and support you need. You may also want to future proof your life, so you don’t have to move if you develop say, mobility issues.
Independent living or assisted living retirement communities are ideal for people who do not need much assistance in day-to-day life. With assisted living, care and support with everything from getting up and dressed to having meals delivered are available to book as and when needed.
Care homes or nursing care homes are recommended for those who require intensive support or around-the-clock assistance.
Retirement communities vs care homes: how much do they cost?
Retirement communities and care homes are very different, so the comparison is tricky. In retirement communities, you buy or rent your own private home within a development. In a care home, you rent a room or suite for as long as you need and care and meals are usually included.
If you don’t require around-the-clock assistance, an assisted living retirement community is usually a more cost-effective solution than a care home.
Our research indicates that you could save around £13,000 a year by choosing McCarthy Stone’s assisted care over a care home. The average cost of a residential care home is around £32,000 a year, while someone in a McCarthy Stone Retirement Living PLUS apartment with eight hours of care support per week pays on average £18,730 a year*.
Did you know? McCarthy Stone can help you with your financial planning for a new retirement home, including free advice that could increase your income.
Of course, it’s not all about money. We believe that life in the right retirement community can prolong independent living by removing barriers and giving people the perfect environment to thrive.
Join the right type of retirement community near you
Retirement communities allow you to relax and enjoy your retirement knowing that help is always there should you need it. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, try different experiences and find comfort in a friendly and supportive environment.
If you want to find out more about McCarthy Stone retirement homes for sale or rent, why not take a look at our Retirement Living and Retirement Living PLUS properties?
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today on 0800 201 4811 or online or take a look at our FAQs page.
*Research carried out by Laing Buisson, 2018
