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.

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.

Making the decision to move into an assisted living community is no easy task, there are many questions to ask, promising retirement estates to view, costs to evaluate, and more importantly, the future to consider. Whilst the old saying goes “Home is where the heart is”, many elderly people find it difficult to say goodbye to a home that’s filled with countless cherished memories.

Having a clear understanding of the emotional impact that moving can have on your loved ones will help families reduce or potentially avoid stress and frustration. Moving into an assisted living community should be seen as an exciting journey, a journey designed to find the perfect fit for your loved ones’ current and future healthcare needs, as well as finding an environment that will help your loved one flourish and enjoy.

This may seem impossible at first, however let us take a look at what you and your family can do to make that transition a smoother and dare we say, a happier one.

Making a smooth transition

Having a clear strategy in place can really benefit your loved one with the transition into an assisted living community. This strategy should include their thoughts, seeing as the community selected will become their future home and therefore, they should have a say in whether or not it’s the right place for them.

Once you and your loved one have selected the appropriate assisted living community, you should put together a checklist of to-do’s that should be addressed before, during, and after moving. This to-do list can help keep track of what needs to be done and what still needs to be addressed.

Some items to include in your checklist can be:

1. Moving date: If possible, consider moving during the week when the estate is fully staffed and able to help your loved one get situated.
2. Move their belongings in sooner: If possible, try to bring some of your loved ones’ belongings into the apartment sooner. By doing this, you can make the apartment feel more like home, it will also free up some time to help them settle in and relax.
3. Start the downsize process early: If possible, try narrow down the things your loved one wants to keep, although this may be an emotional journey at first, it will help you better plan the furniture size and storage needs in advance.
4. Make the rounds: If possible, take your loved one on a tour of the assisted living community to engage and meet with the staff and neighbours. This will allow them to familiarize themselves with the people they’ll be spending time with and also join in fun activities.

There are other steps you should take into consideration when moving your loved one into an assisted living community. Let us take a closer look:

Finding a Community Together

When searching for an assisted living community for your loved one, you should consider all aspects e.g., The estates offerings, level of healthcare, what people say about the estate, what activities do they offer, the costs and what is included in the costs etc.

It is important to get your loved one involved in the decision-making process, as mentioned by taking them to view the estate in order to get a better feel for the environment and the people living there. This will help your loved one feel more confident and comfortable with their decision to move into the chosen estate.

As mentioned, having your loved one involved in finding the right assisted living community is important as it will provide them with peace of mind when it comes to the decision to move.

Make a List and Stick to it

You’ve found the right community to move into, now it’s time to put your checklist into action. Make certain activities fun for your loved one, so that they don’t feel as though their lives are being uprooted. One way to do this could be by having the family over to help you sort out and downsize your loved ones’ belongings.

It Takes Time

Making a house feel like a home takes time and patience, the same applies when moving an elderly person into an assisted living community. If a loved one is unable to take care of themselves or they are considering a different kind of homeownership: a healthy, safe, accessible, friendly, and inviting community can become the home they need and deserve, given the time.

Bring Your Cherished Possessions

It’s important to keep special memorabilia or perhaps furniture that bring your loved one joy and comfort in their new living space. This can include their favourite chair, books, movies, pictures, art, or knickknacks. Having these reminders of the home your loved one shared with your family can help make the move less stressful.

Visit Often

This is for the children, grandchildren, friends, and acquaintances of loved ones who are moving into an assisted living facility. There is the potential to feel isolated and unwanted when anyone relocates from their established home, if those around them do not keep in contact. The strongest predictors of a smooth and happy transition are the maintaining of quality time spent with friends and family as well as integrating into their new social circles.

Making New Friends

Whether you are nine or ninety years old, making new friends can be hard to do. Something that makes it easier for all of us is entering into a new social circle. Like most of our retired population, these new social circles will be filled with an incredible array of life stories, interests, and experiences. Eating lunch or playing cards with new friends could have a hugely positive impact on your loved ones’ community experience.

So be sure to encourage your loved one to join in on any events or fun-filled activities that may be taking place in the community. You could also join your loved one in some of these activities to make it easier for them to engage with new people and help them make friends.

Take Part in Activities

All of the best assisted living facilities provide a wide selection of recreational activities that keep all members of the community engaged, active and social. These activities have proven to promote mental and physical health for the residents staying there, therefore it’s important that you and your loved ones take a look at what activities are available and sign them up to join.

By joining in on these activities, the previously unfamiliar faces that they may see at breakfast or on their morning walk will fast become teammates, competition, supporters and partners. Try out the different hobbies, arts, exercise, and games that are organized regularly for the community.

Don’t Change Everything

We understand that when a loved one decides to move into an assisted living community, it’s because they are at a stage in their life where they may be struggling with their mental or physical health. Although change is good, try to keep the size and scope of the changes to a minimum as this can help make the transition even smoother.

Dinner dates with friends, game nights with grandchildren, church on Sunday or monthly family lunches are just as important to maintain as anything else. Adjusting to new surroundings is much easier when you do it with the people you love.

The Lonehill Manor Solution

At Lonehill Manor, we know how to make you or your loved one’s transition into assisted living as easy and gratifying as possible. We offer our residents a place to call home, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful gardens, stylishly decorated lounge, dining room and open spaces, they can enjoy relaxation or easily socialising with friends and family whilst taking part in our estate hosted activities.

Join our wonderful community today and become part of the Lonehill Manor family. Contact our amazing team today for more information on our retirement community.

The post How to Make A Smooth Transition to Assisted Living appeared first on Manor Retirement.

Of course, there are many different approaches to funding your retirement life, all of which have their pros and cons that need to be considered. Whatever your approach, there are several common retirement mistakes that need to be avoided at all costs. All the while, ensuring diligent saving habits and effective pension fund development over the course of your career.

Here are the five most common retirement mistakes you need to avoid:

1. Retiring too early
   One of the most common mistakes made by older South Africans is the assumption that we can retire at 55 and go about our retirement life in style. The fact is that retiring at 55 is just not feasible in a South African context for most of us. The vast majority of us will have to keep working well into our sixties and maybe beyond. Whether you are a cautious spender or diligent saver, the amount you can afford to put aside will, simply, not be able to cover the lifestyles you want to lead for as long as we need. Life expectancy increases every year and we will need (on average) ten to fifteen years more years of retirement funding than expected. Unfortunately, retiring early is a privilege reserved for very few and cannot inform our retirement plan decisions.

2. Too dependent on investment and cash accounts
   The desire to place your money and savings into regular accounts is a terrible mistake. Savings accounts, like money market and investment accounts, are a tempting short-term solution to where and how to keep our savings safe while growing. These are a sensible pitstop on your savings journey, but cannot be the final destination. These accounts are too unstable and inconsistent for a retirement fund due to volatility in the equity market. Of course, these accounts will continue to provide useful tools and opportunities to make growing your retirement fund a successful endeavour. However, these will never replace the classic retirement annuities, preservation funds and pension plans that continue to offer safe and secure access to your savings for your entire retirement, without the risk of outliving or losing your money.

3. Thinking you have more disposable income than you do
   There are many romantic notions about what our retirement life might look like, especially when we see a large lump sum in our accounts. Travelling the world, spoiling loved ones, climbing mountains and buying dream cars are all valuable and exciting ways to spend your money, but are they within your retirement budget? They might not be. It is important to take note of exactly how much disposable income you have access to and what you can afford to spend on romantic notions. Most South Africans are seduced by the significant amount of money that you have on hand after retirement. However, it is important to ensure this money lasts and you can pay for your retirement without stress and room for a little extravagance.

4. Failing to adjust your post-retirement lifestyle
   This is probably the most common mistake made by soon-to-retire South Africans, according to financial experts, insurers and bankers. Understanding what you have available to you and what kind of lifestyle you intend to lead are important steps in planning your retirement; however, these two factors will need to account for each other. Basically, we need to be able to afford our post-retirement lifestyle. With all the time, money and freedom that comes with retiring, it can be so tempting to spend extravagantly and explore the world. A reasonable wish for any new retiree. This is hard-earned and well-deserved, but needs to be approached with caution. It may be hard to hold back in your sixties, but you will be grateful for the additional income in your eighties and nineties.

5. Starting too late and saving too little
   There are two simple steps that any working adult can take to help ensure their retirement will be comfortable and easy: starting early and saving more. It is understood that we want to spend as much as we save from our salaries, but this is not always the best choice. Starting in your twenties and saving more towards your pension could be the difference between your dream retirement and a steep drop in lifestyle standards. By becoming more diligent in how we save money and add into our pensions, we can become more and better prepared for our next life stage. Most retirees say that their retirement years approached them faster than they expected and should have prepared more. Get ahead of the curve and start saving as much as you can, as soon as you can. Your future retired self will thank you!

Deciding where you are going to live in your retirement years is an important and difficult decision to make. Whatever your medical or lifestyle requirements, Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling retirement communities have a range of senior living options to make living your retirement years easier and more comfortable.

The post The 5 Most Common Retirement Mistakes Made by South Africans appeared first on Manor Retirement.

Researchers found that seniors with a healthy heart would be able to maintain and improve their memory, mental capacity and mental health. Factors, such as diet, blood circulation, lifestyle, physical activity and stress levels, will all play a part in our cardiovascular health as we get older. We need to consider these factors when deciding what we want our retirement years to look like and when trying to maintain our lifetime of memories.

Here are a few ways to that improving your heart health can help keep your mind sharp as you age:

Poor Blood Circulation Can Precipitate Mental Decline

Poor blood circulation can have various negative effects on our physical and mental health as we age. Research shows that the reduced blood flow associated with poor circulation can lead to a more rapid decline in our memory. This is as a result of poor blood flow to the temporal lobes of the brain.

Our brain’s temporal lobes play a key role in memory formation, retention and maintenance. Over time, a restricted cerebral blood flow will precipitate the effects of memory and mental decline that we see in aging. This is all as a result of poor blood circulation and weakened heart function that reduces blood flow to these critical areas of the brain.

Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease and Good Heart Health

One of the most common and devastating forms of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Much like cancer or heart attacks, we have all had to deal with loved ones suffering from dementia. The symptoms of dementia can range from memory loss and cognitive decline to confusion and inability to reason. Alzheimer’s is one of the more severe types of dementia, and all preventive measures should be considered.

Alzheimer’s disease is caused by plaques, tangles and abnormal clusters of protein fragments that build up between nerve cells and synapses that cause brain cells to die. In a recent study, it was found that elderly participants who had healthy hearts (strong blood circulation and healthy blood vessels) were less likely to build up plaques and tangles in the areas of the brain where Alzheimer’s first forms.

Good for the Heart Is Good for the Brain

Maintaining our brain health and memory as we age is more than a matter of keeping our hearts healthy. However, the healthy behaviours and lifestyle choices that are emphasised for maintaining heart health are the same ones that benefit our brain health. Cardiovascular and mental health are intricately linked to our overall health and can both be improved by certain lifestyle changes.

Making big lifestyle changes can be difficult as we get older, but even the smallest changes could make a difference to our long-term cardiovascular and mental health. Healthy behaviour changes like these could include: quitting smoking, doing regular exercise, getting good sleep and eating a well-balanced diet. You never know what positive lifestyle changes will have the biggest impact, but all of them are definitely worth a try.

Deciding where you are going to live in your retirement years is an important and difficult decision to make. Whatever your medical or lifestyle requirements, Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling retirement communities have a range of senior living options to meet your needs, including independent and assisted living, as well as frail care.

The post Research Shows Link Between a Healthy Heart and Lasting Memory in Seniors  appeared first on Manor Retirement.

There are so many benefits for those who move into retirement communities that can make the decision easier. Beyond access to 24-hour health care and endless activities; there is a community of people who are navigating their post-retirement life – just like you. In fact, most seniors who have decided to move into these communities could not imagine living anywhere else.

If you are approaching your retirement years and wondering whether or not independent living is for you, ask yourself these five questions:

Do you know the difference between independent living and assisted living?

There are many options to choose from when considering what type of residence and care you require in your older age. There is a lot to consider, from various types of residences to different levels of care and what amenities your retirement community offers. For example, independent living focuses on the community’s social needs and residential comfort, but residents still have the option to take part in activities and events outside the community.

Independent living still offers access to common amenities, such as medical care, communal dining and household assistance. However, some residents require this type of care more frequently. Assisted living is a residential option for those who still want some independence and freedom, but require regular assistance with daily tasks. Housekeeping, meal preparation, and taking medication are common tasks that become harder for us as we age into our retirement years.

What is the truth about independent living?

As with anything in life, there are some myths and stories about what independent living is like for those who choose it. However, most of these are false, and the reality is much simpler, more independent and more comfortable than these myths sometimes suggest. Independent living and retirement communities do not threaten your independence, they help you maintain it for longer.

You can face the difficulties, that sometimes come with ageing, in your own space with support when you need it. You can keep your favourite couch or cook your favourite meals; you can live in your own space that you can be proud to call home. There is no obligation to use the services and amenities of your retirement community, but if and when you require it, there are always trained staff to offer professional and speedy assistance.

What are your current health and lifestyle needs?

Before deciding what amount or type of care you will require, it is important to take stock of your personal health condition. In order to understand if independent or assisted living is for you, you need to decide what you are capable of doing. Consider your health and mobility to determine if you can conduct daily chores, keep up with medication and transport yourself around the city.

If this is the case, independent living might be the right choice for you. Independent living also provides the opportunity to keep in touch with friends and family more easily. You can attend all the events and celebrations you want to participate in and enjoy. If you do not feel up to taking care of daily tasks, something closer to assisted living might be right for you. You need to decide what residential options suit your personal and health needs.

What should you consider when choosing a retirement community?

First and foremost, you have to visit the retirement communities you are considering. You should know exactly what residential options, amenities and services they offer. Try and speak to other residents about how they have experienced their community environment. Ask round to determine where people with similar health and lifestyle requirements have decided to call home. Also consider the community’s location and its proximity to family, friends, restaurants and shopping centres,

How should you make the transition?

The transition from your pre-retirement lifestyle to post-retirement lifestyle can be a jarring and intimidating time for all of us. Not to mention, the actual move itself can be incredibly stressful. Try and pack ahead of time, while deciding what personal items, furniture and luxuries you want to take with you.

When you get there, do not be shy. Be social and introduce yourself to your new community, decorate your residence to make it feel like home and enjoy the amenities that interest you. Take part in social activities and take the opportunity to consider what your post-retirement life will look like. This is a huge next step in your life, and this choice must prioritise you and your wellbeing.

Deciding where you are going to live in your retirement years is an important and difficult decision to make. Whatever your medical or lifestyle requirements, Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling retirement communities have a range of senior living options to meet your needs, including independent and assisted living, as well as frail care,

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From 24-hour care to assisted living and independent living to continued care residences, there are so many options to consider and choosing the right one will have a huge impact on your loved one’s life. In order to help you make the best decision possible, we are going to look at the five most popular senior care living options for your loved ones.

In-Home Caregivers

Being able to retain the familiarity and comforts of your own home is a wonderful privilege in your retirement years. For seniors who would prefer to stay in their family homes, in-home caregivers are a wonderful option for providing all necessary support while retaining some sense of normalcy. Professional in-house carers are able to assist with all daily needs, such as nutrition, medication, personal hygiene, housekeeping and transportation.

This kind of support will afford your loved ones the opportunity to live out their retirement years without disruptions and assistance with daily necessities. In-home care is a more expensive senior care option and does not provide specialised medical or rehabilitative care. It is important to understand the level of medical support your loved one requires before committing to this option.

Independent Living Communities

Independent living communities, better known as retirement villages, are the most popular living option for modern retirees and seniors. These communities are for healthy seniors who can take care of themselves, want to maintain an active lifestyle and keep a bustling social life. Retirement communities are usually in a complex environment with close access to medical care.

The private homes, apartments or rooms available in these communities offer a range of services, such as housekeeping, gardening, transportation and various physical and social activities. Most retirement villages offer access to amenities like gyms, swimming pools, clubhouses, restaurants and medical facilities. This is a great low maintenance and safe option for seniors wanting to maintain their independence, but remain active.

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities are another option for independent, active and social seniors who require a little extra assistance and care on a daily basis. Despite the independent apartments and rooms, social environment and independent lifestyle, your loved ones can have daily household assistance and medical care. This option is best suited for elderly people who need help with their medication management, meals, hygiene, specialised medical care and other daily support.

Frail Care Facilities

Frail care facilities offer 24-hour care for seniors who require round-the-clock support due to physical or mental deterioration. This is also a great short-term option for seniors who are recovering from an injury, managing a serious illness or rehabbing after surgery. This is a perfect option for seniors who are bedridden, disabled or battling dementia; whatever their medical requirements, frail care services will help you manage them with the best care and consistent support.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are another term for retirement villages, but ones that include all of these senior care options, available in a progressive living arrangement. These communities will include independent living, assisted living and frail care residential options, so that your loved ones can move around the community as their needs change over time.

CCRCs give seniors the opportunity to build a life within the same social and physical environment they have come to know, while having increasing levels of care over time as their lives’ change. This is an amazing option for couples, siblings or friends who wish to live together, but have differing medical requirements. This continuity can provide a sense of security, comfort and normalcy as their medical or personal needs change.

Making the Right Decision

There is no perfect solution for senior living, because all seniors are unique and dynamic people who have different living requirements and preferences. It is important to include your loved ones in the decision-making process and ensure that they are comfortable, happy and secure in their new home. Their medical needs and living requirements should always be a priority, but their social life and ability to spend time with friends and family is essential to making the right decision.

Deciding where your loved ones are going to spend their senior years is an important decision for their post-retirement life. Whatever the medical requirements, social activity or daily care needs of your loved ones are, Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling retirement communities have a range of senior living options to choose from.

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Retirement and financial independence are commonly used interchangeably. However, there are keen differences between the two. Financial independence can be applicable to any person who has earned enough to sustain their livelihoods without traditional work, regardless of their age. Retirement is, mostly, used to describe people in their later life – usually over 60 years of age – who are financially independent and no longer working.

Distinctions aside, the opportunity for early retirement is becoming more common for people of all ages in our modern world. Digital, technological, market and communication advancements have made earning passive and additional income more accessible than ever before. Both, early retirement and financial independence are more possible today than ever before.

Early Retirement and Financial Independence

Early retirement, in particular, refers to people who’ve become financially independent before the usual retirement age – 60, in the case of South Africa. Many of these early retirees have become squeamish at the use of the term ‘retirement’, but the reality’s that if you’re financially prepared to end your career, you can retire early! Achieving financial independence and leaving the workforce means that we’ve got more time to enjoy our accumulated wealth and spend more time with our friends and family.

The Benefits of Early Retirement

• Running errands and making plans is easier
  With an early retirement, your days are freed up to do what you need to, when you want to. Early retirees can run their errands or do a weekly shop at times that are most convenient to them. Make plans with friends and family more easily, avoid the worst of weekday traffic and enjoy less busy parks, shopping centres, gyms or movie theatres.
• Try out free and discounted activities
  Having all this extra free time allows early retirees to take advantage of weekday or monthly specials at local museums, movie theatres, travel agencies and restaurants. Don’t miss the 50% discount at your favourite restaurants and shops, reduced return flights or free-for-everyone days at the best museum in town.
• Enjoy a better social life
  Most professionals work five days a week and from 8am to 5pm. It might not be this schedule exactly, but having the opportunity to develop a thriving social life can be difficult for those working a full-time job. Early retirement gives those who dedicated themselves to their careers for decades a chance to expand their social circle or enjoy new and different night-life and activities.
• Focus on your friends
  In the digital age, it’s tempting to maintain some relationships online or over phone calls. The reality’s that by retiring early, you can focus your time and energy on your offline relationships and connections. Spend more time with your favourite people in the (real) world and when it’s convenient.
• Spend more quality time with your family
  One of the best parts about retiring – one of many – is that you’ve got more time to spend with your loved ones. You’ve got the freedom, space and flexibility to spend more quality time with your family or speak to ones overseas. Perhaps you could even visit them more often. Early retirees can focus on their spouses, kids, grand-kids and extended families without the hindrance of a busy work life.
• Get in better shape
  Without having to spend your whole day at the office, you can take better care of your health. Early retirees have the opportunity to improve their nutrition and exercise more frequently. After years of ordering takeaways, barely sleeping and stretching at your desk, retirees can focus on eating better, sleeping better and staying in shape. Not to mention, these are all so important for maintaining our mental health.
• No fear of getting fired
  Without having a traditional job, you no longer have to worry about job security in this hyper competitive labour market. Retiring early, because you’re financially independent, gives you the freedom to live your life the way you want to. You’ll never have to adapt your lifestyle to appease your employer – ever again!
• Finding new purpose in life
  Many in the working population mistake their life’s purpose for their professional purpose. As the saying goes, work is ‘what you do, not who you are’. Retirement, finally gives dedicated professionals the opportunity to prioritise other areas of interest and forgotten passions. The additional time and energy those early retirees have for new activities and interests can help them find new purpose in life.

Possible Concerns About Early Retirement

The most common concerns about early retirement are whether or not you’ve got the financial and social resources to maintain your current lifestyle without work, and what to do with all that free time. This takes planning and experience. You need to plan out your yearly budget and determine what you’ll need. This is usually a smaller number than you think, and most early retirees are well-prepared to live a happy life.

As far as the free time, potential laziness and wasted days that many considering early retirement are concerned about: trust yourself. You need to use this time to find new hobbies, try new activities, travel the world more and spend less time on social media and in your emails. Perhaps you’re a master pianist in waiting or an author looking for the right story, maybe you’re a capable endurance athlete or a gifted chef. You won’t know until you try.

Early Retirement Is Worth It

Whether you’re volunteering for a charity organisation, planning to visit loved ones in other countries or training to climb Kilimanjaro, early retirement and financial independence means that you have the time and resources to commit to them. Find new purpose, explore new places and try new things, the possibilities of an early retirement lifestyle are endless.

Deciding where you are going to live is a critical investment in your post-retirement lifestyle. If you are a retiree and considering where to call home on this exciting new chapter of your life – consider joining one of Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling communities.

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These feelings are not unwarranted because there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to retirement planning for South African families and individuals. In order to live out your retirement years in style and comfort, you’ll need to consider a variety of complex, individual circumstances to create the perfect retirement plan for you.

Even general guidelines, such as this, will only provide some direction for the steps you’ll need take on your retirement journey. From choosing the right financial advisors, investments and banking services to deciding where to live and what your post-retirement expenses will be; there are many thoughts about how South Africans should approach their retirement.

Here is a list of things you should know before considering your retirement:

A simple savings goal is not enough

Whatever your savings goal is, it probably won’t be the right number. Being financially independent post-retirement isn’t about meeting a saving ambition that you hope is enough. It’s about identifying your desired lifestyle, knowing your expenses and ensuring there’s money put away to meet those needs, for years to come. Basically, your savings goal needs to be determined by how much you plan to spend in your retirement, not the other way around.

Post-retirement expenses can be more than in your professional years

It’s a common misconception that you’ll be spending less in retirement than when you’re working. This can be true, but it’s not always. Yes, certain expenses will disappear in retirement, like paying into a pension fund or for petrol on your daily commute, but these savings could be needed for other post-retirement expenses.

For example, higher medical costs, visiting family around the globe, increasing inflation on amenities and other lifestyle changes can increase your expenses. Most retirees are looking to maintain or improve their current lifestyle – not to reduce it. A retirement plan should consider how to replace annual earnings and plan for new expenses that may arise.

A maximum annual, tax-deductible amount on earnings is critical, but not sufficient

By allocating money to a pre-retirement fund, you’re able to reduce your taxable income for any given year, while building wealth in the meantime.  However, individuals in higher tax brackets will not earn the savings needed to fund their current or future lifestyle expenses. The 27.5% tax deductible that South African investors are entitled to are subject to terms and conditions, such as a R350 000 monetary cap on deductibles per annum.

Even with years of tax deductibles under your belt, these probably won’t be able to replace a substantial yearly income. Investors and soon-to-be retirees should look to grow their savings beyond their tax-deductible earnings. It’s important to consider tax-free savings accounts, growing retirement annuities, smarter vehicle and residential investments and other ways of diversifying your earning potential.

Post-Retirement work can help to meet your savings goals, but can’t guarantee them

Yes, it’s possible for you to keep working into your sixties and seventies to secure a larger retirement fund for you and your family. However, there are a variety of circumstances beyond your control that can limit your earning potential post-retirement. Yours or your spouse’s health could deteriorate or your company could have different employment policies for older workers.

This is, especially, true for occupations that require healthy and physically-present professionals, such as doctors, teachers and tradespeople.  Even if remote and adapted work is possible, there can be limited job security for retirement-age employees. They can be susceptible to downsizing cuts or reduced wages, after years of earning larger remuneration – and part-time, consultant and contract work that match your previous earnings can be hard to find.

Retirees can still have a bond on their house after retiring

Most professionals are hesitant to carry debt into their retirement. If you’re considering downsizing, buying a new home with cash or paying off a current home at an attractive interest rate, you can leverage those finances for other post-retirement spending. Post-retirement, you’ve got to balance the benefits of living debt-free with the opportunity cost of having less cash available for other purposes. Retirees should know how long they plan to live a that mortgaged home, what their post-retirement expenses are and what other financial means they have to meet their lifestyle needs.

Your retirement plan must account for future changes

Market volatility is a common concern for those entering their retirement years. The possibility of depleting your financial savings will concern even the most prepared, soon-to-be retirees. Some retirement plans will focus on risk-averse investment strategies, such as bonds or fixed annuities. This, however, can hinder potential earning opportunities.

In our modern world, people are living longer, digital platforms are making it easier to invest and access to global earning opportunities is growing by the day. As we mentioned earlier, you won’t know exactly how much money you’ll need for a happy and healthy retirement. Risk-averse strategies can secure a certain amount of money, but it can also limit your earning potential post-retirement.

If you’re considering growing your potential earnings into your retirement years, you should consult with experts who understand your personal circumstances and post-retirement goals. Financial and investment planning for upcoming retirees needs to be advised by qualified, capable and experienced financial advisors who can help you meet your lifestyle expectations.

Deciding where you are going to live is a critical part of defining your post-retirement lifestyle. If you are a retiree and considering where to call home on this exciting, new chapter of your life – consider joining one of Manor Retirement’s beautiful and bustling communities.

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