Enjoy life in a coastal paradise. Just a short drive from Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula offers something for everyone. Visit a local winery, take a leisurely stroll through one of the many farmers’ markets, or tee off at some of Australia’s finest golf courses.

If you're interested in retirement options in the region, consider Deborah Cheetham Village in Ocean Grove – a coastal retirement gem designed with care, choice, and community living in mind. It’s a beautiful example of retirement living on the Bellarine.

Explore Deborah Cheetham Village on the Bellarine Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula offers the best of coastal living – beautiful beaches, world-class wineries, and welcoming, close-knit communities. With plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle just over an hour from Melbourne.

Explore Ryman Retirement Villages in Mornington Peninsula

When considering retirement options, one major decision is whether to stay in your own home or move into independent retirement living. Each option has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, health needs, and personal preferences.

Independent homeownership benefits:

• Familiar surroundings and full control over your living space
• A strong sense of independence and autonomy
• The ability to maintain routines and community ties you've built over time

Retirement village living benefits:

• Opportunities to stay active and connected to others through clubs, activities, and shared spaces
• Access to healthcare, support services, and amenities
• Freedom from home maintenance responsibilities while still living independently

Thinking about what matters most to you – whether it’s familiarity, security, convenience, or community – can help guide your decision.

Questions to ask:

• Does my family home still fit my needs or is it getting difficult to manage?
• Do I want to go travelling without having to worry about my home?
• Do I feel safe and secure in my home?
• Do I expect my health needs to change in the future?

Learn more about Ryman independent villas and apartments

Meeting your social needs

Ensuring your social needs are met is an important part of retirement planning, but it’s something people don’t always think about ahead of time. 

However, with family often living far away, and without the regular interactions of the workplace, many older adults can feel lonely or isolated. Chronic loneliness can seriously affect both mental and physical health, so it’s worth thinking about how you'll stay connected and feel like part of a community in retirement.

A socially rich environment can make a big difference in how supported and fulfilled you feel day to day. Many retirees find that retirement village living helps counter loneliness in meaningful ways. For example, Ryman villages offer a variety of activities, clubs, and social opportunities that help residents build friendships, stay engaged, and maintain a sense of purpose.

Questions to ask:

• How can I continue to feel connected and part of a community?
• Would it be easier to be social if I didn’t have to drive to see people?
• What activities or clubs would I enjoy, and how could I access them?
• Do I want to meet others at a similar stage of life to me and make new friends?

Discover the social benefits of retirement village life

Access to healthcare

While you may be fit and healthy now, it’s common for people to experience chronic conditions, mobility challenges, or require ongoing medical support as they age. Living close to healthcare services – such as hospitals, specialists, and allied health providers – becomes an important consideration. 

In Victoria, residents are generally eligible for Medicare, which covers many essential medical services, including GP visits and hospital care. Private health insurance is also available, giving access to additional services, choice of providers, and shorter waiting times for elective procedures.

Being in a location with easy access to healthcare reduces the stress and logistical burden of traveling long distances for appointments. It also provides a sense of security, knowing that help is nearby if needed. For many older Australians, proximity to quality healthcare is not just a convenience, it’s a key factor in deciding where to live.

Ryman villages often provide additional healthcare support, including home care services, on-site nursing assistance, and residential aged care if required. 

Questions to ask: 

• Is the area you’re considering well serviced by healthcare providers? 
• Will you be able to access care when you need it?
• If you are considering moving to a retirement village, are there also care options available on site or nearby?

Learn more about aged care and extra support options at Ryman

Why Ryman is a leading choice for retirement in Victoria

• Decades of expertise in retirement living: Ryman has been a trusted name in retirement living and care for over 40 years. Learn more about our story and values.
• Locations you’ll love: Our villages are located across some of Victoria’s most desirable regions and suburbs.
• Premium amenities and friendly communities: Each Ryman village has its own unique character, and with amenities like a café, swimming pool, and bowling green right on your doorstep, there’s always something to do.

Ready to explore your options?

If you’d like to find out more about retirement living options at Ryman or book a village tour, we’d love to hear from you.

• Schedule a visit to a Ryman village: Book a village tour
• Learn more about Ryman: Request an info pack
• Get some personalised advice: Speak with one of our retirement living specialists
  

Thinking beyond Australia?

For those considering a move across the Tasman, Ryman also offers exceptional retirement villages in New Zealand.