Retirement living and staying at home both offer meaningful ways to live independently as we age. One provides the comfort of familiar surroundings, while the other offers a supported, low-maintenance lifestyle within a community.
Your decision may depend on health needs, finances, and the kind of lifestyle you value. By understanding the differences in cost, care, and social connection, it becomes easier to choose what suits you best.
At Catholic Healthcare, we support older Australians through each stage of their journey. Whether remaining at home or exploring retirement living, we’re here to help you choose the path that feels right for you.
Understanding the Differences
When comparing retirement living and staying at home, it helps to understand what each option involves.
- Staying at home, also referred to as ageing in place, means continuing to live in your current residence. You may receive home care services or make adjustments to suit your changing needs, but your lifestyle and surroundings remain largely the same.
- Retirement living involves moving into a purpose-built, lower-maintenance community designed for people aged 55 and over. These settings typically offer independent living with access to local services, support and a strong sense of community.
Comparing Costs
The cost of retirement living vs at home will vary based on your circumstance, but it is still helpful to compare common expenses.
Staying at home may include:
- Ongoing bills such as utilities, insurance and rates
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Cleaning, gardening or private care services
- Modifications for safety or accessibility
Retirement living may include:
- An entry payment or deposit
- A recurring service or maintenance fee
- Fewer out-of-pocket costs for home upkeep
- Shared access to facilities and community programs
While retirement living can involve upfront costs, many people find it simplifies expenses and offers greater predictability in the long term.
Lifestyle and Daily Living
Remaining at home allows you to maintain familiar routines and surroundings. You are in control of your schedule and space. However, daily tasks such as home maintenance, cooking and cleaning can become more challenging over time without the right support.
Retirement villages and communities offer a more supported lifestyle. Homes are designed for comfort and accessibility, with fewer responsibilities. You can maintain your independence while enjoying optional services like domestic help, meals and group activities.
Both options support independence in different ways. The right choice depends on how you want to live each day.
Care and Safety Access
Access to care is a key consideration weighing ageing in place vs retirement living.
At home, you may need to organise home care services through a trusted provider like Catholic Healthcare. Many older people thrive with support at home services that are tailored to their needs, helping them remain independent while receiving help with daily tasks, personal care, transport or clinical support.
With retirement living, optional services such as allied health are often integrated onsite or available locally, which can offer added convenience as needs change. If your care needs increase, some providers can help you transition to home care or residential aged care more easily.
When Is It Time to Consider a Change?
There is no single right time to make a change. Everyone’s needs and circumstances are different. However, these signs may suggest it is worth exploring new options:
- You are finding it harder to manage household tasks or home maintenance
- You feel isolated or would like more day-to-day interaction
- Your health or mobility needs are increasing
- You want easier access to care or safety support
- You are looking to downsize to a simpler lifestyle with fewer responsibilities
Some people move into retirement living early to enjoy the lifestyle and social connection. Others wait until their needs change. Either way, planning ahead can give you greater choice and peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Whether you’re considering a move or exploring ways to stay safely at home, it’s important to think about your goals, health needs, preferences and budget.
Catholic Healthcare offers a range of options, including retirement living communities, home care services and residential aged care for those who need additional support.
If you or a loved one would like to talk through your options or learn more about what might suit your needs, get in touch with our team today.
Grounded in more than 150 years of care and community, our purpose is to support older Australians to thrive. Whether you're planning your next chapter, seeking basic support, or complex care, we're by your side. We offer a full range of services to suit your needs — from vibrant Retirement Communities to Support at Home, wellness programs, and quality Residential Care. Our warm, welcoming communities and personalised services are designed to enhance your mind, body, and spirit, helping you embrace ageing and live life your way.
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