Retirement estates, also referred to as retirement homes, senior living communities, or nursing homes, all cater to the health and well-being of seniors. Whether they are able-bodied or require assistance, or perhaps need specialised medical care. As life expectancy increases and the senior population grows, so too does the demand for quality retirement living, making it more important than ever to be well-informed about the options and criteria for selection. In this article, we will take a closer look at several factors that will ensure the comfort, safety, and well-being of our loved ones.

Here are some key factors to consider

What type of unit do you need?

Before you book your tour of a potential retirement estate, you should have established the type of lifestyle you or your loved one would like to have and the type of healthcare you would need. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the search:

• What size must the living space be to remain comfortable?
• Do I require one or more bedrooms and bathrooms?
• Do I require additional storage?
• Do I require a ground floor unit, or can I have a first or second floor unit?
• Will there be a garage or protected parking for my vehicle?
• What type of healthcare services are available at the estate?
• How easy is it to change my living situation to cater for my healthcare needs?

These questions will provide you with the necessary insights you need to find the right estate and of course determine your budget.

What healthcare services are available?

Looking at the healthcare services offered by the estate is the next step you should take. You or your loved one may not require any assistance now, but in the future it may be a possibility, and you do not want to be limited by the estate. Find out what on-site services are offered by the estate, what healthcare facilities and personnel are available, and whether you can bring in your own carer if necessary.

You should also confirm what the processes are involved in transitioning from assisted living to frail care. Additionally, you need to understand what the financial implications are from transitioning from your current living to assisted living or perhaps frail care.

What safety feature are offered by the estate?

Security is a significant feature, especially if you live alone. It is crucial to investigate if you want a lock-up-and-go lifestyle for travelling or if you need something a little more robust. Gated communities provide an extra layer of security, allowing you to travel freely within the community and rest easy at night without fear of break-ins.

Consider whether security measures are in place within your unit or home to ensure there are no trip or slip hazards, and if the shower or bath has been modified to accommodate a railing or chair.

Additionally, assess if there are any steps in or around your potential new home and if there are lifts or stair lifts to assist you.

What services and facilities are available?

Retirement estates often provide a variety of facilities and amenities for residents to remain engaged and entertained. These facilities or amenities can range from swimming pools, community centres, hair salons, community kitchens, dining rooms, garden maintenance services, property maintenance services, transport services, and social activities etc.

It is recommended to make a list of your current and potential future physical, health, emotional, and financial needs and decide if the estate you are considering can fulfil these needs.

Consider the list of facilities or services and select the ones that are important to you, such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, library, visitor parking, aerobic or other exercise classes, art or therapy classes, transport to local shopping or medical centres, public dining rooms, private dining rooms for entertaining friends or family, hairdresser and beauty salon, on-site management, surveillance cameras, security screens or emergency buttons in units, and on-site nurse and medical facilities.

Pet friendly

For many people, pets are an essential part of the family and contribute significantly to a happy and emotionally healthy life. While some villages allow pets, it is crucial to ask about their pet policy and obtain a written copy before making your decision.

Consider the following questions:

• What rules apply to your existing pets? Can you bring them with you when you move?
• What happens when these pets pass away? Are you permitted to get a new pet?
• Are there specific rules regarding the types and sizes of pets allowed?
• Are there designated areas for pets within the village?

Conclusion

It is very important to do all of the above research before committing to a retirement estate to ensure that you spend the latter years of your life in an environment that is totally suited to your current and future lifestyle and health needs. Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate potential retirement estates will help you avoid future regrets and ensure a smooth transition.

By understanding the various options and considering factors such as medical care, amenities, security, and pet policies, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your current and future needs. Additionally, this research will provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, knowing that you are in a place where you can live comfortably, safely, and happily.

Ultimately, investing the effort upfront can lead to a fulfilling and enriching retirement experience, allowing you to enjoy this phase of life to the fullest.

Contact Lonehill Manor Retirement Village to book your viewing of our amazing estate today!

The post Things to Consider when choosing a Retirement home for your loved one appeared first on Manor Retirement.

As we get closer to our retirement age, the idea of having to find a retirement estate that can cater to our changing lifestyle needs can be quite exhausting. Not to mention we would need to consider location, cost, amenities, and healthcare access.

On the list of considerations should be the type of property ownership scheme you would like to buy into. Most retirement estates in South Africa provide two types of ownership options: Sectional Title or Life Rights Ownership. These two types of property ownership differ slightly in terms of monthly costs, special levies, and maintenance, as well as how the property is managed once the owner has passed on.

The misconception of life rights ownership

Sectional title ownership is accessible to homeowners of any age, whilst life rights ownership is reserved for those at retirement age, looking to buy into a life rights estate. Most retirees are aware of and understand sectional title ownership, so when they encounter life rights ownership, there is room for misconceptions.

For example, most retirees assume that life rights ownership offers the same claim to a property as someone who is merely renting. However, life rights provide the buyer with exclusive rights to live on that property for the duration of their life. Those who opt for life rights ownership have the same rights as those who have entered into long-term property lease agreements, but they are not required to oversee the transfer of ownership.

How does the Life Rights ownership model work?

There are typically three parties involved in a life right agreement. These include the owner of the property who grants the life right, the holder who pays for the life right, and the occupant of the property who has the right to remain there for the duration of his or her life.

The holder of the agreement can often be the same person as the occupant, however, in most cases they are a trusted family member who pays the life right to ensure that the occupant can enjoy a high standard of living, with access to world-class amenities, without the hassles of maintaining a property.

When a resident passes away, the estate is responsible for reselling – the Life Right. A pre-established formula is applied to the profits from the sale, and the proceeds can go to the deceased’s nominated beneficiary.

Life rights vs sectional title ownership

The primary difference between life rights ownership and sectional title ownership, is that the life rights occupant’s claim to the property ends upon their death. This type of ownership aids the family members of the deceased occupant, who are typically charged with managing the sale of the home in the following ways:

• The owner of the property will manage the sale of the life right and will be charged with marketing the life right, thus reducing pressure on the deceased occupants’ family.
• The sale of the life right operates similarly to a house sale. The holder of the life right (if not the occupant) is paid once the life right has been sold to a new holder. If the holder is also the deceased occupant, the money will be paid to the beneficiary of the estate.
• If the life right sells for more than what was originally paid, the owner will pay the holder or beneficiary the full amount originally invested, minus any transactional or renovation fees.

Before entering into any agreement, it is important for the retiree to discuss their needs with their family and to go over the pros and cons of the different ownership models. This will provide the family with the information they need to make an informed decision.

What are the benefits of Life Rights?

There is a reason why life rights ownership is fast becoming the most popular choice amongst retirees around the world. With some of the biggest benefits of life rights ownership being:

• You and your family have peace of mind, knowing that you have a home for life.
• You can enjoy security, access to amenities, healthcare, and so much more at an affordable monthly rate whilst reducing hassles and stress associated with having to maintain the property yourself.
• You are exempt from paying VAT or transfer duty.
• The estate retains ownership of the property and therefore has a long term vested interest in maintaining high standards, promoting improvements, and ensuring the profitability of the estate.
• When a spouse passes away, the surviving partner retains his or her life rights ownership to the property.

How can Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate help you?

At Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate, our residents have access to luxury independent living apartments, comfortable assisted living suites, and comprehensive frail care rooms at affordable prices. We aim to provide our residents with the flexibility they need when coming to their healthcare and living needs, whilst offering a happy, stimulating, and healthy retirement community.

When an apartment comes up for resale, the estate will sell on behalf of the occupant/s and an exit fee on the re-sale price is payable to the estate.

For many retirees, life rights ownership is the most sensible property investment, as it is a custom-crafted ownership model for people entering retirement. It offers financial peace of mind, hassle-free living, and enables you to enjoy a stress-free retirement without having to compromise on your standard of living.

Contact Lonehill Manor Retirement Village to book your viewing of our amazing estate today!

The post The Benefits of Life Rights Ownership appeared first on Manor Retirement.

The decisions that surround the “When”, “Why” and “How” of retirement are incredibly personal and will largely depend on your parents’ individual circumstances. If you think your parents are ready for retirement, whether it’s in the next few months or the next few years, there are plenty of things you will need to consider and discuss before they officially do.

When considering your parents’ retirement options, it may be a good idea for you and your parents to formally plan the next few months or years leading up to their retirement. This will not only help you gain a better understanding of what is required, but it may also help your parents confidently navigate this new chapter of their life.

While many people choose to retire at the suggested age of 65 in order to use their retirement period as an opportunity to do things such as making a career change, learning something new, travelling across the country or around the world, or even starting their own business venture, others prefer to retire in stages. They may choose to take on part-time work, giving them a sense of financial stability while offering freedom to do more things.

Now, let’s delve into the five burning questions you should consider when contemplating retirement for your parents.

1. 1. Can your parents afford to retire?
      This is an important question to consider at the very beginning of your parents’ retirement planning journey, as it will determine the “When” and “How” aspect of your planning process. If your parents retire completely, they will be losing their main source of income. They will need to make sure they have enough income from other sources such as pensions, retirement plans, investments, or savings to supplement this loss. Therefore, having a detailed financial plan for your parents’ retirement in place can help you better determine when they can retire and how they will be able to support themselves when they do. This plan should include considerations for both the pre-retirement period and retirement itself. If you want to find out how much money your parents will need in order to retire comfortably in South Africa, you can read this article from AA:  “How much do I need to retire?”.
   2. What will your parents do during their retirement years?
      Once the novelty of retirement has worn off, you’ll find your parents will become bored, restless, and may start to question their retirement. Although it is natural for people to want to find a renewed sense of meaning and purpose during their retirement, having a good idea of how you want to spend your newly found free time can lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle. For example, getting your parents to help out with the grandkids, perhaps see if they are interested in starting a new hobby, or making their current hobby a source of income. Perhaps they want to dedicate more time to exploring new activities or travelling. You can easily sit down with them to find out what they could do on a weekly basis to fully utilize their retirement. Check out our article “6 Ways to Lead an Active and Purposeful Life in Your Retirement”. A benefit of retirement estates is that they also provide social, physical, and creative activities which your parents can take part in on a daily basis. Having an age-appropriate and like-minded community around them transforms the lives of those retirees who live in them.
   3. What will your parent’s retirement lifestyle look like?
      It is important to consider how your parent’s current lifestyle might change if and when they decide to retire. Retirement could have a huge impact on various aspects of life, therefore having a plan in place as mentioned in point 2 is vital. For example: If your parents have an active job, what activities could, or should they take part in to remain active during retirement? If they are incredibly sociable, are their clubs or classes they can join to be around people?
      It’s also important for your parents to consider how retirement living can impact the dynamics of their relationship. They will need to establish a good routine to not only ensure they have appropriate time apart to do what they like, but also adequate time together.
   4. How will your parents feel about retirement?
      This is a question you should ask when considering appropriate retirement options for your parents. As there are many misconceptions regarding retirement, your parents may not be enthusiastic about the idea. Therefore, it’s important to educate them on the benefits of retirement, you can read our article “Six Advantages of Moving into a Senior Living Community Now”. If your parents are nervous about moving into a retirement estate, you could recommend taking them for a walk-through of the estate. This will give them a chance to view the estate, ask questions, see what the estate offers before having to move. It would also be helpful to gather a list of activities your parents can have access to at the estate. Social engagements can give your parents a huge boost to connect with other people who are living a similar lifestyle and have interests that relate to theirs.
   5. What should you look for in a retirement estate?
      When coming to a retirement estate, there are obvious things to consider such as location, costing, basic amenities, different retirement packages etc. There are a few things to consider that do not often come to mind, these are:
      1. Floor Plans: If you are looking into rooms, apartments, or homes within a retirement estate, be sure to review the floor plans if available, of your preferred property, to ensure it fits with your parents’ living requirements.
      2. Measurements: Similarly, to reviewing the floor plans, you should view the property’s measurements, to be sure that the property is of an adequate size. By viewing the property’s measurements, you can best determine if your parents’ furniture will fit in the space, thus avoiding future hassles.
      3. Community Policies: Knowing the estates policies and rules regarding pets, parking, monthly costs, inclusions, and exclusions can help you make informed decisions regarding the estate or the type of living you will need.
      4. Waiting Lists: Certain estates, due to popularity, may not be readily available to take on new residents at this time. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead by starting early. Do your necessary research in advance and once you and your parents have found a suitable estate, apply to be on their waiting lists.

Conclusion

Deciding where your parents are going to live is critical for their post-retirement lifestyle. If your parents are retirees and considering where to call home on this exciting, new chapter of their lives, consider joining Lonehill Manor’s bustling community.

The post Are Your Parents Ready to Move into A Retirement Village? appeared first on Manor Retirement.

Senior citizens reach a point in their lives when they are no longer able to care for themselves. Whether this is a result of physical or mental decline, they are unable to perform daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, dressing, or taking medication.

In such circumstances, it is essential for seniors and their families to make the decision to transition into the care of a professional, fully equipped, and well-resourced frail care or assisted living facility. However, choosing the right type of facility will depend entirely on the level of care your loved one needs.

Here are a few things you should know about frail care:

What is frail care?

Frail care is designed to be a long-term living solution for seniors that have suffered some kind of health incident where they are no longer able to care for themselves. These health incidents can range from a heart attack, stroke, bad fall, or mental health decline, all of which can be a requisite for more acute hospital care.

Frail care can provide around-the-clock access to the health care services that these seniors need and can become a permanent home where the level of care is necessary and beneficial to those who live in them.

What are the benefits of frail care?

Frail care can provide many benefits for those who find themselves in need of extra care. These benefits include helping seniors maintain their independence and dignity, it can provide them with social and emotional support, and can help improve the quality of life not only for the senior receive the care, but also peace of mind to the loved ones.

The types of frail care services will differ across retirement villages!

While most retirement estates are intended to meet the needs of older people generally, frail care facilities, services and level of care will vary from one community to another. For example, some retirement estates will offer basic frail care or caregiving services, where a caregiver will help their community members with daily tasks, such as cooking, bathing, laundry, cleaning, and even taking medication.

Whereas other retirement estates may have a more sophisticated and better-staffed frail care facility that could include part-time or full-time medical staff, a pharmacy, surgical theatres for urgent care and life support equipment.

Some retirement estates may also offer independent or assisted living facilities with healthcare access or specialised facilities for mental illness, in addition to their frail care wings. With different types of frail care and healthcare options available to seniors at retirement estates, it is crucial that you look for the best option that meets the needs of your loved one before making a decision.

What are the challenges associated with frail care?

As with all areas of healthcare and assisted living when it comes to our senior citizens, there are many challenges. In the case of frail care, the challenges often focus on the financial aspect to level of care.

Frail care can be seen as very expensive and medical aid schemes are notorious for their fine print. In the case of senior health care, there is an unforgiving difference in the way that health insurance companies define medical care versus frail care.

In the type of health incidents, we covered earlier, short-term healthcare provision may be covered, but only for a limited time. If you suffer a stroke, heart attack or broken hip, they will cover your immediate medical care which does not include assisted living or frail care if that is what you require after recovery.

When it comes to level of care, finding the right frail care or assisted living facility has its’ own challenges. This can be seen when seniors have complex health needs that require a lot of time and attention which is not easy to provide or sustain in a busy hospital or nursing home environment.

This is where research is key, here are a few things to consider:

• What type of assistance does your loved one need?
• What are the costs involved for frail care or assisted living?
• Is the facility well-staffed, properly vetted, and qualified?
• Are existing residents happy with the level of care?
• Is the facility able to properly care for your loved ones needs?

Is home-based care a better alternative than frail care?

When we think of home-based care, we think of a part-time or live-in caregiver that is able to help our loved one better manage their day-to-day tasks in a familiar environment. This definitely sounds better and more cost-effective than the alternative, which is moving your frail loved one into an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by medical staff.

However, home-based care can become a cost-prohibitive process and access to high-level medical care is limited. It is also important to include additional costs such as transport, groceries, housekeeping, hospital stays, and at-home GP visits on top of the monthly caregiver salary in order to gain a clearer understanding of the financial implications of home-based care.

Home-based care can be a viable option if your loved one does not require complex care. If they do, then for thousands of rand less, your loved ones can get the full-time care they deserve with medical professionals and facilities accessible in the retirement village they choose.

Making the decision to move into a retirement estate

Deciding to move into a retirement estate’s assisted living or frail care facility is life-changing decision for seniors and should not be taken lightly. It should be a considered and thoughtful family decision that takes into account the needs and feelings of our loved ones.

Choosing the right retirement estate – with all the requisite facilities and resources – is critical to ensuring the best quality of life, wellbeing, and care for our beloved elderly members of society.

If you are looking for a retirement village, with frail care or assisted living facilities, that are fully staffed and equipped by health professionals and caregivers who are committed to the health and happiness of their community, look no further than Manor Retirement.

The post Facts About Frail Care That You Should Know appeared first on Manor Retirement.

A Sunday drive that changed our lives!

Radha and I were too ready ourselves for a Sunday drive. Nothing unusual about that. Destination undisclosed. About half-an-hour later, we found ourselves pulling up in front of white gates, the legend Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate on the wall. The first stirrings of uneasiness assailed us. The word “Manor” evoked visions of a large estate with a callous Lord in charge. We entered a sweeping driveway. We were met at the entrance by Natasha and a few members of the staff with broad smiles and a gushing welcome. Seated at the entrance was Ange.

A carefully orchestrated maneuver

To our utter surprise, the rest of the family converged on the place, and then the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. This was a carefully orchestrated maneuver. We were shown around and were quite impressed with the general layout of the property with its well-tended gardens and the profusion of trees with brick-paved walkways.

And then came the punchline: how would we like to spend our retirement here? No compulsion, it was entirely our decision. At this stage, we felt we would have been disappointed if the question had not been asked of us. A few words on the side with Radha, and we both looked in full agreement, and said so. We were told not to rush into it, seeing that nothing they could say would make us change our minds.

What was our next steps?

We were hugely impressed with the options that were given to us: the assisted living / frail care facilities, and the independent units. The residents are friendly, and we live as a community. There are many activities organised, set out in a monthly planner to keep us socially and intellectually engaged, and a fairly well-stocked library, and a heated indoor swimming pool. The most important aspect is the love and care shown by the caregivers 24 hours a day. Your absolute comfort is their concern, you can rest assured that your loved one will be well-looked after. Radha and I have been living here for about a year and 4 months and have no intention of leaving.

No regrets – just gratitude!

Thank you, family, for showing us that you care by leaving us in a secure environment. Now, both of us can lead the lives best suited to our different needs. It is truly a home from home where visiting is allowed daily.

The post Lonehill Manor Testimonial From Nynah Raju appeared first on Manor Retirement.

Aging isn’t always graceful, but that doesn’t mean the misconceptions about elderly people are true. In fact, anyone in their sixties still feels that they have so much more life to live and new experiences to discover. This is why you should not buy into the misinformation that hampers how you enjoy your golden years.

We may think we know what aging entails, but the reality is that post-retirement life is as individual and unique as any working life. Today’s senior population can be seen as a very different bunch when compared to past generations as they are more educated, tech savvy, connected, and able to still contribute to their community. This being said, our seniors are a far cry from the frail, forgetful, and helpless figures we see depicted in movies and TV series.

Let us take a closer look at these 7 common misconceptions about aging that may be influencing how we see our retirement life now or in the future:

1. Being a senior is lonely and isolated.
Humans are naturally social creatures, who thrive amongst community. Our need to connect and establish meaningful relationships does not diminish with age. However, there may be physical or mental barriers that arise with age, that make connecting with someone a little more challenging.

Seniors able to maintain strong social relationships can often reap numerous rewards such as overcoming intellectual challenges, improving communication skills, maintaining information processing skills, and improving mental health etc. Thanks to the advancements in technology and the overall progress of retirement communities, seniors can easily stay connected with family or friends, whilst establishing new bonds through various social events and activities.

2. Your health will always be determined by family history.
This is a very common misconception that cannot be farther from the truth. Although genetics can have a small impact on your health outcomes, environmental and lifestyle factors play a much larger role in determining your overall wellbeing. For example, your health is more likely to be influenced by factors such as whether or not you regularly exercise, have a balanced diet, proper sleeping cycle, do not smoke or drink, and if you take proper care of your mental health.

However, if you are concerned about your family’s medical history affecting your current or future health, we recommend that you consult with a medical professional.

3. Seniors are weak or frail.
Muscle tone and strength naturally decline over time, and loss of function is anticipated as we age, however, much can be done to combat or slow down the physical and mental aging process. Staying active, exercising regularly, and having a healthy diet can help seniors build muscle, develop flexibility, improve bone density, assist in weight control, and possible help manage some chronic conditions well-into your older years.

Activities like yoga, swimming, daily walks, gardening and even household chores can all help keep you fit and in tiptop shape. This can include decreasing your blood pressure and incredible benefits for your mental health, such as preventing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or senility.

4. All old people are senile.
As we get older, we experience some forms of mild-forgetfulness like misplacing your car keys, or forgetting about an appointment, but this is a far cry from becoming senile or suffering from dementia. Keeping your wherewithal and maintaining your mental capacity is more than a possibility.

Symptoms of age-related mental decline, like all other symptoms of aging, can be thwarted by a variety of mental and physical activities. For example, reading, learning new skills, keeping up with old skills, playing mentally challenging games can all help towards keeping your mental acuity even into your senior years. Nevertheless, you should talk with a doctor if you have serious concerns about your memory and thinking or notice changes in your behavior and personality.

5. Older people struggle to learn new skills.
This is simply not true, seniors still have the ability to learn new skills, create new memories, and improve existing skillsets that they’ve acquired over a lifetime of experiences. In fact, trying and learning new skills may even improve cognitive abilities as this study from NIH shows.

We develop, grow and craft our ability to learn new skills over many decades and these tools and information-gathering abilities continue to serve us as we grow older. By seeking new social connections and engaging in social activities such as book clubs, bird watching, photography classes, knitting classes etc. can keep your brain active and may help boost your cognitive health.

6. Old people are terrified of technology.
There is seemingly endless rhetoric about old people being confused, intimidated or, possibly, terrified by new technology. This could not be further from the truth, with todays’ seniors being more tech savvy than previous generations, our older population are continuing to explore new technology every single day.

With incredible advancements in technology such as smart devices, video calls, instant messaging, seniors have utilized this technology to stay in-touch with family and friends despite potential growth in physical distance. Seniors have also utilized this newer technology to hone new skills or maintain part time work to keep their minds active or perhaps earn additional income.

7. Seniors should not be part of making important life decisions.
A common – and dangerous – misconception is that with age seniors will begin to lose their ability to think clearly and their interest in life-altering decisions. This goes as far as to assume that they cannot track current events or even some events in their own orbit. This is wrong.

Involving seniors in the decision-making process is a critical means of keeping them engaged, happy, secure, and fulfilled. Important decisions regarding their personal healthcare and finances or selling their home and moving into a retirement community should always include the person who if affects most and who has the most to gain from making good life decisions.

Conclusion

For years, Lonehill Manor has avoided these misconceptions and have treated all of our residents with the respect and dignity that they have earned and deserve in their post-work life.

Our retirement estate fosters respect, trust, and mutually beneficial relationships with our residents and their families. We provide supportive and engaging communities that help so many thrive in their retirement. If you are looking for a place to call home in your retirement years, contact us at Lonehill Manor for more information.

The post 7 Common Misconceptions About Growing Older appeared first on Manor Retirement.

How are you enjoying living at Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate?

We moved into Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate on the 26^th April 2022 and all I can say is that it was the best decision we had ever made.  From the beginning, we were treated as royalty

Our Apartment is outstanding with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms en suite, a great kitchen /lounge and a huge balcony.

The Estate caters for ALL our needs from dining to entertainment.  Every staff member is friendly/happy and always willing to oblige with any request.

I highly recommend our Estate  to anybody who is looking for 5 Star living

Clive & Liz Hendrikz

The post Lonehill Manor Testimonial From Clive and Liz appeared first on Manor Retirement.

What motivated our choice of Lonehill Manor as a retirement home?

Well into our seventies, we wanted a quiet secure place in which to retire. A garden, a pool and unused bedrooms were becoming a handful to maintain, and whilst in age-appropriate good health, we knew a time might come when accessible medical and nursing care could become a necessity.

Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate is providing us with a stress free, secure and caring environment with amenities and infrastructure to cater for our well-being today and for the years ahead.

Our opinion of it after four years of living here?

Peaceful gardens with much bird activity, and a friendly community of like-minded people give it a village atmosphere and make it the ideal place in which to spend our twilight years.

Richard and Georgie Brown
Independent Living residents since January 2019

The post Lonehill Manor Testimonial From Richard and Georgie appeared first on Manor Retirement.

Getting older can be tough in different ways. We may face a loss of mobility or loved ones, declining mental or physical well-being and missing out on family events in far-away places. The truth is that these make it difficult to maintain old relationships or build new ones. Loneliness is a concern for everyone, but especially our elderly loved ones who cannot be as proactive in their social life.

There are serious health risks that are posed to senior citizens who feel isolated and alone in their later years. This can be caused by the loss of a life partner, parents living alone in an old and empty family home or struggling to develop new friendships. The health impacts can extend as far as to affect chronic diseases, like depression, heart conditions, dementia, diabetes and hypertension.

Fortunately, for us, our loved ones and those navigating our post-retirement life, there are incredible benefits to community living that provide opportunities for building real and lasting social connections in our later years. Retirement communities are a wonderful way to spend this chapter of your life, spending time with people at a similar life stage and a variety of social, creative and physical activities to share with a new community.

Here are a few of the most significant benefits of community living for those looking to build an exciting and rewarding post-retirement life:

Having a supportive community around you

As we mentioned, having, building and maintaining strong social connections and healthy relationships are a sure-fire way towards a meaningful and fulfilling later life. In a retirement village, we are introduced to a whole new community of like-minded people who also want share new experiences with new friends. A sense of community and the richness of sharing those experiences cannot be overstated.

A lifetime of stories, challenges, milestones, memories and experiences to share with a community of people who can do the same with you. Not to mention all the new memories, stories and experiences that will be shared for years to come. Having an emphatic and supportive group of peers that understand you and want to see you thrive is so important for keeping up your mental and physical wellbeing.

Helping keep your mind sharp

Exercise is an important part of any health lifestyle, but we will discuss physical exercise later on. Much like our bodies, our minds need regular exercise in order to keep sharp. Exploring new ideas, activities, skills, hobbies, conversations and creative endeavours are transformative to the way our minds learn and stay agile. We have to make sure our minds are healthy, in addition to our bodies, as we age into later life.

Building up the strength, resilience and capabilities of our brains has many benefits for our brain health later in life. Reading, playing cards, painting or playing an instrument has proven to help reduce the likelihood and severity of mental health issues, chronic health conditions and physical ailments. Retirement communities are well aware of these benefits and have a variety of activities available to keep the mind sharp.

Providing a sense of purpose

Having a calendar full of fun and exciting events is very affirming for anyone’s mental state. Getting ready for a busy schedule of social activities can give us a sense of purpose in our post-retirement years. Retirement communities will have a rich and engaging calendar of physical, social, creative and competitive activities to help develop new skills, build connections and stay active.

Especially now, since the pandemic is coming to an end, community living spaces are reintroducing communal activities, outings and social events to their calendars. From dancing and cooking classes to movie and game nights, there are so many activities that those in a retirement community can look forward to, stay connected with their community and provide a sense of purpose for them.

Physical exercise is critical for physical well-being

It is important to specify that, amongst all of these wonderful social and communal activities, there are a multitude of physical activities facilitated by retirement villages to help keep your body healthy. Facilities like gyms, pools, tennis courts and so on are used for swimming, yoga, dancing, cardio and other training that helps you stay active at any age. Using these opportunities is so important for your body and, indeed, your mind.

Even something as simple and enjoyable as group nature walks or a daily communal walk around the village can be a huge addition to your post-retirement lifestyle. The health benefits of physical exercise are clear for everybody, but it becomes even more important aging into our sixties, seventies, eighties and beyond. There is no shortage of opportunities for you to keep your body strong and fit, benefiting your physical, mental and spiritual health.

Choosing the right residential option for your retirement years can have a variety of positive mental and physical benefits for you. Whatever your post-retirement lifestyle requirements, you can rest assured that you will have every one of your needs met at Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling retirement communities.

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These questions and considerations vary per individual and are normal considerations to think about; because at the end of the day you want to live your best retirement life. In this article, we will look at some of the benefits of living in a retirement estate and why buying a home within a retirement estate may be the best option for you, as opposed to renting:

What are the benefits of living in a retirement estate?

When it comes to your post-employment life, you will find that your lifestyle and health needs begin to change. As this change affects your way of living, moving into a retirement estate can benefit you in a number of ways. Let us take a look at how you can benefit from living in a retirement estate:

1. Flexible Living
   A retirement estate provides residents with flexibility when it comes to their current living arrangements. This flexibility grants residents the ability to downsize from a standalone home to an apartment or a small bedroom unit with ease, should the situation warrant it. With life being unpredictable and ever-changing, quality retirement estates tend to consider all eventualities and have all life stages covered.

2. A Safe and Secure Environment
   As you get older, your need for security and safety may start becoming more of a priority. This is where retirement estates take extra care to ensure the safety and security of their residents. At most retirement estates, there are a broad set of security measures in place, such as electric fencing, access control systems, security guards and CCTV cameras with 24-hour monitoring.

3. Access to Health Care
   Find a retirement estate that offers easy access to quality health care facilities and services at each life stage. The quality and level of access to health care facilities and services will vary depending on the retirement estate. Some estates include 24-hour nursing care, health care centres, onsite emergency response and easy access to hospitals and doctors, to ensure all residents are healthy, happy and well looked after.

4. Carefree Retirement Lifestyle
   Contrary to popular belief, seniors do not always like to sit around knitting. Nowadays, retirees remain active well into their golden years, by enjoying activities both inside and outside the retirement estate. Whether you join in on social gatherings, exercise clubs, game clubs, mini-markets, libraries and more, you can do what you enjoy, whilst being in a safe environment.

5. Community and Friends
   Enjoy a sense of community with likeminded individuals. Almost every retirement estate, across the globe, offers fun filled and stimulating activities for their residents to enjoy. These activities range from outdoor or exercise activities, like yoga, hiking, cycling, bird watching and so on, to other activities, such as bridge evenings, movie nights, social dinners, book clubs and so much more.

6. Being Outdoors and One with Nature
   Being outdoors has a multitude of physical and mental health benefits for individuals for all ages. It can help with reducing stress and anxiety, boosting energy and motivation and even assist with improved physical health and mental focus. Enjoy the outdoors with beautiful gardens, picnics, walking areas, bird watching, hiking paths and more to feel recharged in nature.

7. Working From Home
   Many people choose to work after retirement, whether it is full time or part time, this is financially driven for some, while others prefer to keep their business mindset sharp whilst earning extra income. Many of today’s retirement estates have a strong technology backbone, with high-speed internet, residents can continue or kickstart their part time consulting or freelance business from home.

It is important to understand your current and potential lifestyle and health care needs when considering which retirement estate to buy into. At Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate, we offer our residents a beautiful and bustling community, where you can confidently start the next chapter of your life.

What to consider before buying into a retirement estate?

Now that we have covered some of the benefits a lifestyle or retirement estate has to offer, there are a few things you should take into consideration before buying a home, apartment or small bedroom unit. Let us take a look at a few things you should consider:

1. The Purchase Price vs Purchase Value
   Buying a home in a retirement estate is often perceived as expensive. In reality, the building that you buy is not all you are getting, what you are actually getting is flexibility, safety, security and a stimulating environment. This comes with access to on-hand medical assistance and healthcare, a carefree retirement lifestyle, community and friends, amazing outdoor experiences, fast internet and so much more.When moving into a retirement estate you are joined by likeminded individuals, where you can create great memories and better friends.

2. Location is King
   The last thing you want is to buy into a luxury retirement home situated right next to a garbage dump in the middle of nowhere. This is why location is king! When looking for a retirement estate to buy into, always look at where they are situated and what is in close proximity to the estate and, if possible, have a look around to see if the area in question suits your health, social and physical needs.

3. Type of Care Offered
   When considering a retirement estate, take into account your current and potential health care requirements and determine whether the estate can accommodate those health care needs. For instance: do they offer independent living, assisted living, frail care, long- and short-term rehabilitation care, dementia care, in-house nursing staff or access to primary health care?The retirement estate should be able to provide all of its residents with access to various care options, that are easily accessible and all in one estate, if possible.

4. Monthly Costs
   Do not be afraid to ask what the monthly levies are. If you are looking at buying a property in a retirement estate, be sure to ask your agent what the monthly levies are; whether they are capped and, if not, what is the annual rate of escalation. Another question to ask your agent is what do the levies cover, for example: do they cover general maintenance, insurance, garden services, frail care and homecare services?Knowing these costs can help you better prepare financially towards your future retirement lifestyle.

5. Know How the Estate is Managed
   Do you know what the estate’s management track record is? Before moving into a retirement estate, speak to the residents or view online testimonials to see what current and past residents had to say about living on the estate.You can also request the financial information regarding the operation, maintenance and security of the estate. Find out what protections you have if the estate is sold to another organisation, what resident committees there are and what roles they play in the management of the estate.

Purchasing a retirement property is investing in the creation of new and exciting memories, especially with Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate. Where we ensure the stability and care necessary for our residents’ health and happiness.

What are the different purchasing options?

Purchasing a home is an important financial decision at any age. Whether you are choosing to downscale to a freehold home, buying into a life rights estate or opting for sectional title unit; these are all decisions that require careful thought and consideration. Each purchase option and property type come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages and should be considered in light of your unique circumstances.

Let us take a dive into a few of the purchase options available to you:

1. Freehold Property Ownership
   Buy and own your home. When purchasing a freehold home within a retirement estate, you become the title deed holder and have full rights and responsibilities of property ownership. This also means being liable for any bond registration costs, transfer duties or conveyancing fees.When it comes to the management of the property, typically, under freehold property ownership and with you as the owner, you are responsible for the management, maintenance, upkeep and insurance of the property.With this in mind, you may find that the maintenance and upkeep of the property may end up becoming a burden as you get older. Especially if you are a retiree, looking for a more hassle-free retirement option. On the other hand, since you own your property, you do not have restrictions in respect of pet ownership. Enjoy your personal space, maintain your home as you please and have the freedom to bequeath the property in question to your loved ones.

2. Life Rights Property Ownership
   Life rights property ownership is ideal for those who want to invest upfront for the right to live in a property on a retirement estate for the duration of their lifetime. It is leasing a property for life. In return, the retiree gets to enjoy a high standard of living, with access to world-class amenities, without the hassles of maintaining their property.As the estate is solely responsible for the management of the property, they are in charge of the maintenance, upkeep and insurance of the entire complex. This means, the management is driven to keep the facilities and amenities of their estate in good condition, to not only ensure continued clientele in the future, but satisfaction of residents at all times.It is important to understand that every life right agreement is different. This means you need to know exactly what you are paying for when you choose a life right ownership option. On the bright side, you as a resident of the estate can enjoy nursing and medical care, frail care facilities, entertainment, relatively low levies, prepared meals and excellent security.

Conclusion

Purchasing a property close to retirement may seem like a daunting task. This is why we recommend doing your homework, considering your options, your current and potential health care needs and your budget. Through doing so, you can make informed decisions with regards to buying or leasing your new home and venturing into this exciting new life chapter.

At Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate, we strive to provide our residents with attentive care and personal support to ensure that their changing needs are always met. Our estate offers a full range of quality nursing care and accommodation to meet individual needs. Situated in a park-like property along Concourse Crescent in the popular suburb of Lonehill, Sandton. Its convenient location ensures easy access to doctors and health care providers, Life Fourways Hospital and numerous modern shopping centres, such as Lonehill Shopping Centre and Fourways Mall.

If you are interested in knowing about current sale and rental options, we warmly invite you to view our retirement village in person. Please call Natasha on 083 271 1176 or email natasha@lonehillmanor.co.za to book a viewing. You can also visit our Lonehill Manor Retirement website for more information on how we can help you find your dream retirement home.

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