Are you ready to help your parents find the perfect retirement village? Whether they’re downsizing or just looking for a change of scenery, helping them find their dream home can be overwhelming. To make the process easier, here’s a list of things to look for when checking out a retirement village – from paperwork to home lifts for elders and everything in-between.
Location, Location, Location
One of the most important aspects of any retirement village is its location. It should be close enough to your parents’ current home that they can maintain their existing lifestyle (i.e. visiting friends and family), but far enough away that it offers some distance from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. By finding an area with plenty of options, your parents can stay active and engaged while they live there.
Contracts
It goes without saying that you should be vigilantin reading all contracts carefully before signing anything, so that you understand exactly what is included in the fee structure. There may be additional costs associated with certain services or activities, so make sure you know what those are upfront.
Safety First
Safety is also an important factor when evaluating potential retirement villages. Be sure to research crime statistics in the area as well as what kind of security measures are in place (such as gated entrance, keyless entry and elevators). Additionally, if there are shared communal spaces such as a pool or clubhouse, enquire about the security protocols for these areas.
Amenities Galore
When it comes to amenities, think about what your parents would enjoy on a daily basis – from workout facilities and game rooms to libraries and movie theatres. If possible, tour all available amenities so that you have an accurate understanding of all that’s offered before making any decisions.
Affordability Matters Too
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices based on location and amenities, it’s time to consider cost. Different types of housing have different price points – condos typically cost less than single-family homes, while townhouses tend to lie somewhere in between those two extremes. Research prices at various community options so you can weigh pros and cons accordingly before settling on one option over another.
Ready to get started?
With this list in hand, you should now feel more prepared when it comes time to help your parents choose their perfect retirement village. Keep these tips in mind when researching options so you can make sure your parents end up with a place that suits their budget and lifestyle needs perfectly. Good luck!
