Senior apartments have become a popular choice for individuals aged 60 and above who prefer independent living. While these living facilities offer essential amenities, residents here are not constantly supervised, allowing them to maintain their freedom and schedules and make decisions. There are different types of senior apartment facilities that individuals can consider based on their personal and health requirements. But, one must take several factors into account when choosing the right apartment.

Types of senior apartment facilities

Independent living communities
An independent living community is a type of facility that offers fully equipped apartments exclusively for seniors. These communities are designed for seniors who do not require medical supervision or any kind of assistance with their daily chores, allowing them to live here on their own terms. Residents here have the liberty to partake in any activities they choose without interventions.

In independent living communities, the senior apartments are designed to be low-maintenance. They are thoughtfully arranged so that residents can focus on living their lives without worrying about the apartment’s upkeep. Additionally, the community staff takes care of tasks like apartment maintenance, lawn maintenance, and landscaping, allowing residents to relax and enjoy their stay.

When it comes to care and support, most independent living communities prioritize personal independence while offering a range of helpful services. While medical services are not typically provided, residents can benefit from services such as meal delivery and assistance with daily tasks as needed.

Retirement villages
Like independent living communities, retirement villages offer seniors the opportunity to live in a community-like setting. But , there are certain distinct differences between the two. To begin with, retirement villages provide a range of living facilities for seniors, including apartments, villas, service apartments, and townhouses. Additionally, they often have strict regulations in place for the residents to comply. For instance, many do not permit the residents’ family members to extend their stay, and some may have certain rules regarding pets.

In terms of community living, retirement villages have various establishments that benefit the residents. Many retirement villages include libraries, coffee shops, and restaurants within their premises, promoting social interaction and enhanced living experience for the residents.

In addition, retirement villages provide all the necessary healthcare facilities for residents to use whenever required. All residences in the village are also equipped with an emergency button, which the residents can access when they need urgent attention.

Private renting
Besides community living facilities, seniors can also choose private rental apartments. Since these apartments are not located in any special establishment for seniors, the residents would not have access to community facilities. But, they would still have the freedom to live on their own terms. One can find rental senior apartments nearby.

Private rental apartments are not usually a common choice among senior residents, mainly because, during their retirement years, it is challenging for seniors to handle the pressure of renewing lease contracts every year. They may even find it difficult to manage the legal formalities and fluctuating rent amounts.

Cost
In most independent living communities and retirement villages, the cost of apartments for seniors is currently around NZ$400,000. But it is important to note that the cost for these facilities is based on the Occupation Right Agreement. This means that by paying this amount, residents have the right to live in the space but cannot sell it. Additionally, under the ORA, services such as house maintenance and repairs are provided by the facility (or the village) without any additional costs.
If one is considering renting a private apartment, the price for a one-bedroom space would be around NZ$400 a week. But, in major cities, the rental price for a similar apartment can cross this mark.

Tips to choose the right senior apartment

Check the location
When looking for a senior apartmen t facility, it is important to consider the location. One must take into consideration the proximity of the facility to the place of residence. Along with that, one must also learn about the area’s local climate and whether it would be comfortable for one to live in those conditions.

Check the amenities offered
Before choosing a new senior living apartment in 2024, it’s important to consider the range of amenities offered at the facility. These amenities may include dining options, housekeeping services, and meal deliveries, all of which can greatly enhance the residents’ quality of life . Furthermore, if considering community spaces or retirement villages, one must check the establishments available within the premises, such as salons, libraries, and parks, to ensure they cater to the needs and interests of the residents.

Look for comfortable features
Moving into a new apartment and community can be a big adjustment for seniors. So, it is important for them to visit different facilities with their loved ones in order to evaluate each place and choose the one where they feel the most comfortable.

Evaluate the costs
Another thing to do when looking for a senior apartment is to evaluate the costs of the amenities and the stay offered. For instance, certain senior apartment communities may charge an additional fee for some of the amenities. One must also note that for facilities such as retirement villages, the cost does not include ownership of the apartments but rather covers the cost of residing there.

Top senior apartment facilities to consider
After considering all the features and factors of a senior apartment facility, one can check out the options available close to one’s residence and shortlist a few reputable ones.

• Longridge Country Estate – Retirement Village
• Ascot Retirement Village
• The Arbor Company – Independent living facility
• Bupa Glenburn Retirement Village
• Meadowbank Retirement Village