Estate Living Magazine Alfresco Living - Issue 36 December 2018 | Page 44

For those who are still relatively fit and healthy, independent
living within a retirement village is probably the ideal choice.
Here residents are able to continue living much as they always
have but with the security of knowing that there is on-call
emergency assistance if required. Ideally one would look at
a development that offers the option of home-based care so
that when the unfortunate reality of declining health rears its
head there is the comfort of knowing that an appropriate care
package is available. It is a huge relief knowing you can live out
your days in the comfort of your own home. And if it gets to a
time when the level of care required is beyond the scope of
home-care, then the availability of assisted living units would be
ideal – here meals are often provided, and healthcare is readily
available. There is also comfort in knowing that a frail care facility
is available for those that can no longer fend for themselves, but
this really should be a last resort.
The retirement estate segment in the property market is
showing continued growth, with demand generally outstripping
supply. Traditionally these were developed as sectional title
developments in which residents own their home and pay a
monthly levy towards amenities, the availability of healthcare
facilities and general upkeep. However, the life rights model,
where the home is purchased for the remainder of the retiree’s
life, is gaining popularity. It is often more affordable despite its
not being much of a financial investment, as it is sold back to the
developer when the resident no longer has need for it, with no
capital gains. The investment, however, is in terms of security –
physical, health and financial – for the duration of the resident’s
life.
There are numerous retirement estates and villages to choose
from – some are large, others small and more exclusive
(and generally more costly); some urban and others have a
more country feel; some offer spacious villas and others chic
apartments – but all in all, most offer a fabulous lifestyle, a
variety of sporting facilities, a clubhouse and restaurant, a great
community environment, and the benefit of health security. So
take the time to explore the options and find somewhere that
ticks all the boxes for your family.
Handle with kindness and grace
As the ‘big move’ edges closer, trepidation is likely to set in and
negative emotions can be expected. It has been said that a move
is the next most stressful thing after losing a family member and
going through a divorce, so above all else, now is the time to
put our emotions and – dare I say it – frustrations aside, and to
consider the wellbeing of our parents.
Thankfully, if handled correctly, this can be an exciting time for all
– a time of new beginnings and hopefully some happy endings.
Tessa Buhrmann
42 |
estate-living.co.za