November 1, 2023
Residential Aged Care, CHL
Finding meaning at St Bede's South Hurstville
A passion for community service inspired Anusha Khadka to join St Bede's South Hurstville.
Choosing a retirement village is a significant decision that will shape your future lifestyle. At Catholic Healthcare, we understand that this choice is about more than just finding a place to live. It's about finding a community where you feel comfortable, secure, and supported.
Our retirement villages are designed to provide a balance of independence and community, offering various facilities, services, and a welcoming environment to help you make the most of your golden years. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a retirement village, ensuring that you make a well-informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.
Key features to consider
When exploring retirement villages, there are several key features to evaluate to ensure the village meets your needs and preferences.
1. Location
Proximity to family, friends, healthcare services, and local amenities is crucial. Consider whether you prefer a bustling urban area or a serene suburban setting. The convenience of nearby shops, public transport, and recreational facilities can significantly enhance your retirement living experience. At Catholic Healthcare, our villages are strategically located to provide easy access to essential services and vibrant communities.
2. Facilities and services
Look for a retirement village that offers a range of facilities and services that align with your lifestyle. Common features include communal dining areas, fitness centres, swimming pools, and social clubs. Additionally, consider the availability of health services, such as on-site nursing or visiting professionals, which can provide a peace of mind. Our retirement homes are designed to offer comprehensive services that cater your physical, emotional, and social well-being.
3. Community atmosphere
The sense of community is a vital aspect of retirement living. Attend village events or activities to gauge the social environment. Speak with current residents to understand their experiences and the overall community spirit. A supportive and friendly atmosphere can greatly enhance your well-being and happiness.
Read more: Retirement village residents' satsifaction soars to 97%
Assessing the financial commitment
Understanding the financial aspects of retirement villages is essential to ensure the decision aligns with your budget and needs.
- Entry costs: Most retirement villages require an ingoing contribution, which is an upfront payment for the right to occupy the premises. At Catholic Healthcare, this contribution is refunded at the end of your tenure, minus a departure fee and any other costs payable under the village contract​.
- Ongoing Fees: Recurrent charges are usually paid fortnightly or monthly to cover the ongoing operation and maintenance of the village, as well as general services such as management, administration, gardening, and emergency call systems.
- Exit Fees: Departure fees, also known as deferred management fees (DMF), are typically calculated based on the length of your residency and deducted from your ingoing contribution when you permanently vacate the premises.
We encourage prospective residents to seek financial advice to ensure their decision is well-informed and sustainable. Consulting with a financial advisor who specialises in retirement living can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision. They can assist in understanding the financial implications and ensuring the choice aligns with your long-term financial plans.
Read more: St Hedwig Retirement Village - an enriching lifestyle in vibrant Blacktown
Making a visit to the retirement village
Visiting prospective retirement villages in person is a vital step in the decision-making process. It allows you to get a firsthand feel of the environment and assess whether it meets your expectations. Fortunately, many providers offer tours or open days where you can explore the retirement village, meet staff and residents, and ask questions. We recommend taking advantage of these opportunities where you’ll be able to experience our communities and speak with our friendly team.
Before visiting, we also suggest preparing a list of questions to address any specific concerns you may have and gain a better understanding of the day-to-day life in the village. At Catholic Healthcare, we pride ourselves on fostering a caring and inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.
Read more: 3 more tips to get the most out of retired life
Finalising your decision
After visiting and gathering information, it's time to finalise your decision. Consider all aspects and ensure you feel confident and comfortable with your choice. We understand that this is a significant decision which it’s important not to rush the process. Our friendly team is here to help you through every step of the agreement or contract, ensuring that you feel secure and informed.
Retirement living with Catholic Healthcare
Selecting the right retirement village involves careful consideration of various factors, from location and facilities to financial commitments and community atmosphere. Catholic Healthcare’s commitment is to provide supportive and vibrant retirement homes where you can enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your transition to retirement living is smooth and joyful.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Contact our team today