Retirement villages offer people [generally] over 55, the chance to start a new chapter in their lives. Usually located in quiet places tucked out of the way, their peaceful environment makes them a great place for retirement. This article aims to give you a clear understanding of what retirement village living is like and to help with your decision if it is the right choice for you.
Community and Culture
Compared to living in traditional housing, park home living has a completely different arrangement. There is much more emphasis on living within a community. It’s a culture that develops organically because the community tends to be for people of a similar age who are also wanting to make the most of their retirement. They offer a balance between support and community. It’s a concept that offers residents an easier transition from their previous conventional house/home, because they remain independent, but are also welcomed by the friendly faces that already live on the retirement village.
Complete Independence
There can sometimes be some confusion between the terms ‘nursing homes’ and a ‘retirement village’. It’s important to understand the distinction, as they offer very different living arrangements/lifestyles.
Nursing homes provide mostly assisted living, or nursing care and emergency medical care. In contrast, retirement villages are designed for independent living, but that’s not to say you can’t arrange for them privately if you do need them.
Retirement village living is ideal for those who enjoy independence and want to be surrounded by a supportive community and a secure environment. This setup may be especially beneficial for those living alone, as it provides both social opportunities with like-minded neighbours and enhanced security measures, including gated access and CCTV.
Ease of Maintenance
As most people that move to a retirement village find themselves downsizing, upkeep is usually much more manageable. While some park homes may be larger than others, generally they require less maintenance and tidying. Residents typically have a small back garden attached at the back of their plot that can be customised to their liking. Maintenance may be offered for this area, but it will usually depend on the size of the retirement village you’re located in. At Parklands, we can take care of this ground if you want us to.
Low Running Costs
The running costs for retirement village living tend to be very favourable compared with conventional housing.
Modern park homes are usually good at retaining their heat, which during the winter months helps to keep running costs low. As you will also be heating a smaller space, it will cost you less than heating a standard home.
Usually, park homes are not connected to the mains, which means you’ll be paying what the retirement village wants to charge you; however, this isn’t always the case. At Parklands, you’d be connected to the mains. We do this to allow you to choose from any energy provider you want, so you can get the cheapest rate possible – just another perk of moving to Parklands of Lincoln!
Most park homes fall under Band A for council tax. It means that residents pay the lowest council tax rate available. On top of this, there will be a ground rent that is either paid monthly or annually. For example, at Parklands, we charge £157.23 (14-10-’24) per month and this is reviewed annually. Any changes that are made will be in line with the Consumer Price Index, and this is standard for all retirement developments, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected hikes in rent.
Start Your New Chapter at Parklands of Lincoln
If you’re of retirement age and are starting to feel the toll with the upkeep of your existing house, retirement village living should without doubt be under consideration. Located in the heart of Lincoln, our retirement park could simply be perfect for you. We urge you to come and visit us at Parklands of Lincoln today. With available plots for new, luxury park homes, you could have a home built to your exact specifications.
