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Retirement communities
As we approach retirement, we have plenty of choices about where to live, one of which is moving to a retirement community. This guide explains what a retirement community is, the services and costs, and if it’s right for you.
What is a Retirement Community?
A retirement community is a purpose-built residential development for older people who want to maintain their independence and privacy, while also having a range of integrated services on hand. Communities provide a network of friends and neighbours nearby, access to domestic and personal help if needed, and on-site facilities such as restaurants.
One of the appealing aspects of retirement communities is the opportunity to meet neighbours and enjoy shared social spaces such as gardens and communal lounges. There is usually a calendar of activities, clubs and social events too – from film nights and cocktail evenings to coffee mornings and hobby groups.
These communities are often located close to town centres and local amenities, allowing residents to be part of the wider area as well as the development. Importantly, each resident also has their own private home for when they want personal space.
Myths about retirement communities
Benefits of living in a retirement community for seniors
Our later years give us more time to enjoy the things we love, and spending them in a retirement community offers an exciting way to embrace the next chapter of life.
What you need to consider
Retirement communities offer older people the opportunity to live a rich and fulfilling life, though there are some considerations to think about before committing to a new home.
Property costs
There are several occupancy options for your retirement home, including buy, rent or Shared Ownership. Property prices are generally in line with the local market and fairly priced to allow retirees to financially plan accordingly, whether it's through selling your current home or taking out a mortgage. You may also be eligible for entitlements, such as housing benefit or council tax reductions, which can help offset some of the costs.
Extra charges
Additional monthly costs may apply, such as service charges to cover community management and the maintenance of communal areas, or for any lifestyle support services you use. These are typically reasonable, but it’s always worth asking for clarification if the details aren’t provided.
Care needs
If you require nursing care, round-the-clock support, or a high level of care, a retirement community may not be suitable. A care home or specialist facility will be better equipped to provide the support you need.
How does a retirement community work?
In a retirement community, you have your own retirement property to call home. You have complete freedom to choose when you want to spend time with others and join in on activities, and when you want to spend time by yourself or venture out on day visits, leisure trips, and holidays.
All McCarthy & Stone retirement developments are designed to provide the sense of community and independence you’d find in a retirement village, with the added convenience of being close to local amenities such as shops, public transport, and restaurants.
Each of our retirement villages and developments has a regular schedule of optional events, including coffee mornings, fish and chip suppers and quiz nights. With neighbours close by, a communal lounge, and on-site restaurants (at Retirement Living Plus developments) there are plenty of opportunities to socialise.
Retirement community living styles
We offer two types of retirement living communities so you can find the one that suits you – Retirement Living and Retirement Living Plus.
Retirement Living
Easy independent living for people aged 60 and over. You’ll be looked after by a House Manager and enjoy shared amenities and a friendly community on the doorstep.
Retirement Living Plus
Independence combined with flexible assisted living for people aged 70 and over. Benefits include a chef-run bistro and optional Lifestyle Services from laundry to pet-sitting.
Retirement property types
Our retirement villages and developments feature a selection of elegant apartments and bungalows. All of our retirement properties includes thoughtful design details to make daily living easier as you get older. These features continue throughout the communal areas, with lifts, wide doorways for accessibility, and spacious landscaped gardens that are easy to move around. Whether you choose a retirement apartment or a bungalow, your new home is designed to meet your needs now and in the future.
Retirement apartments
Designed to be a joy to live in, our sought-after one and two-bed retirement apartments are available for sale, rent or Shared Ownership.
Enjoy your own space with a contemporary fitted kitchen, spacious living room and sleek shower room. Some retirement apartments also offer private balconies or patios.
Retirement bungalows
With a single-story open-play layout, our popular retirement bungalows lend themselves to easy living.
Most of our retirement bungalows include a private garden and parking space. Many include garages. Some are part of a retirement village so you can enjoy extra amenities and a local community too.
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