Relocation to a Retirement Village

Who Considers Relocation and What are People Looking for?

Retirement villages remain an important component of aged care, despite the preference of many senior Australians to remain in their own homes as they age. This National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre research report examines in detail the motivations of seniors when considering whether or not to live in a retirement village. 

The report, authored by researchers from The Australian National University and Flinders University, is based on a survey of over 500 people aged 55 years and over living in the Australian Capital Territory. 

The research reveals that around one-third of respondents have considered relocation to a retirement village in the future, with this most likely amongst younger retirees (55-64 years), those with adequate financial resources and people reporting poorer health and poorer neighbourhood cohesion.

Some of the factors encouraging consideration of a move include assistance in case of declining health, family not having to provide care, convenient location to facilities and assistance with household/gardening chores. On the other hand, a fear of losing independence and concerns about privacy were most frequently cited as being likely to discourage a move. 

The report authors use some of the findings to outline some features of retirement villages that are likely to appeal to prospective residents, including those that provide outdoor living areas, support the maintenance of independence, have assisted living facilities and access to medical services.

These findings are important to inform aged care providers of the requirements of potential future residents in the context of changing health needs of the population and increasing demand for aged care in coming years.

Download the full report below.