When thinking about retirement living options, it’s not always easy to decide what is the right choice for you and your family. With so many options to consider, it’s a good idea to come prepared with the key questions to ask. 

Having a wander around the village is the best way to obtain a true appreciation of what village life will be like. Take in the sights and sounds and observe the general atmosphere. Ask yourself if you could see yourself living there. Often decisions come down to whether you get a good feeling about the options you are considering.

Talk to residents and staff – this is the best way to obtain a genuine account of what life is like in the village.

• People make a big difference to a retirement village. Does the village community exude a warm and inviting feeling?
• Can you navigate your way around the village easily – is there ample signage? 
• Is the village convenient for transport, shopping centres and community amenities? 
• Does the village provide a bus or van for outings? 
• Are the grounds and gardens well maintained and available for you to enjoy?
• Does the village provide quality amenities such as a heated swimming pool, spa, bowling green, café, cinema, hair and beauty salon or a gym?
• Does the village provide quality amenities such as a heated swimming pool, spa, bowling green, café, cinema, hair and beauty salon or a gym?
• Are the facilities modern and in good working order?
• Are emergency generators installed in the aged-care centre, village centre and serviced apartments in case of an emergency?

Moving into a retirement village often means that you will be downsizing. The beauty of this is you will be simplifying your life, creating more time to enjoy the things you love. 

Our independent and assisted-living residents live in spaces designed to inspire, indulge, and entertain. Assisted living in a serviced apartment offers the benefits of independent living with added support to make life easier, including housekeeping and delicious chef-prepared meals.

• Has each unit been designed with the 65+ person in mind?
• Are units modern and spacious, with well-equipped kitchens, quality benchtops, well-appointed ensuites and plenty of storage? 
• Are they energy efficient – insulated, double glazed, and include air conditioning?
• Do they offer a pleasant outlook – such as beautiful views, a balcony, terrace, or a garden?
• Is maintenance included in your weekly fee – exterior maintenance, lawn mowing, and window cleaning?

Studies show that coming together for a meal promotes a feeling of connection, which in turn promotes well-being and increases nutritional intake.

At Ryman, assisted-living and care residents will receive meals as part of the package. Trying before you buy is an absolute must, so we invite you to come and have a meal with us. The proof will indeed be in the pudding! 

• Do menus provide choice?
• Is there consideration for special dietary requirements?
• Do menus change with the seasons?
• Are meals prepared fresh on-site by a village chef?
• Does the village invite you to join them for a meal to sample the menu? 

One of the benefits of moving into a retirement village is making the most of the activities and social aspects of village life, so when you visit a village, it’s worth checking out what is on offer.

At Ryman you can enhance your wellbeing with our Triple A fitness programme, gym, and a social calendar of activities, events, and trips to choose from. Some residents like to organise their own hobby groups when they meet people within the village who share their interests.

• Is there a dedicated programme for activities, entertainment and outings? 
• Is there an additional cost associated with these programmes? 
• Are activities and entertainment adjusted to cater for different levels of physical ability? 
• Are aspects of the programme diversified to engage a variety of interests – such as a men’s club, creativity through art and crafts, bowling tournaments, interaction and fun with music, or puzzles and games for intellectual stimulation? 
• Is participation optional? 

This is where you will discover that not all retirement villages are made the same. It’s a good idea to shop around, to compare what different providers have to offer. That way you can relax knowing you’ve made the right decision for you and your family. 

• Are terms and conditions written in plain language, so they are easy to understand? 
• What percentage is the Deferred Management Fee (DMF) and is it capped?
• Can you choose between fixed and indexed weekly fees?
• Do village staff sit down with you to explain contracts and fees?
• Do fees stop immediately when you vacate your apartment or villa?
• How long will you have to wait until you are repaid your capital once your apartment or villa is vacated – for example, 6 months?
• Are you exposed to any capital loss when the apartment or townhouse is resold?
• Does the village allow for a ‘cooling off period?’ Will your deposit be refunded?
• Does the village provide a 90-day money-back guarantee?

To retire with confidence, you need financial certainty. At Ryman, we’re transparent about our costs, offering options to fit your ideal retirement lifestyle. No matter which option you choose, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying and what you’ll receive in return. 

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a retirement village. We’re here to answer any questions, and to help you to plan for your best years yet.