Retirement Village Features

Added: (Thu Jun 18 2009)

Pressbox (Press Release) - Not all retirement villages are created equal. If you or a loved one are considering moving into a retirement village, then take care to get the kind that suits you. While there are basically two different kinds - donor funded and resident funded - each one will have different legal structures, costs and departure fees. It is a good idea to speak with a solicitor or financial planner before signing on the dotted line.

Other things to consider when choosing a retirement village are: -

* Size. Accommodation varies between small bed-sitters to large brick homes. Each will come with a different price tag and rules for upkeep.
* Facilities. Most retirement villages have common areas for the use and enjoyment of those who live there. Some of the later ones have additional facilities such as pool, gym and sporting facilities, shops and a restaurant.
* Level of care. Independent living units or assisted living facilities are both available - sometimes you can get both in the one village to save moving as age takes its toll. Assisted living may be graduated levels of care from simple home maintenance to assistance with personal chores such as meals and showering.
* Costs. Costs for a retirement village can usually be divided into three categories. Entry fee when you move in; ongoing service charges, and departure fee. Of the three, the latter is the one that is most difficult to understand, as there are many different legal structures for departure fees.

Mel writes about retirement living, land for sale and other home-related topics.