How retirement village living supports couples with different health need levels

We all age. But not everyone ages in the same way. Because while there are plenty of senior citizens who are still very healthy, happy and capable of living in their own homes, that’s not always the case.  

There are a variety of reasons why some people need a helping hand in retirement. And when you’re a couple, it can be difficult to get the living arrangements right. What if one of you has a number of health issues that can’t be managed at home? Of course you don’t want to be separated. So what is the solution? For many, a supportive, well-equipped retirement village is the answer.      

Here’s how a lifestyle community can assist retired couples with different health needs. 

 

Physical changes

Part of the ageing process slows our bodies down, and also makes them more prone to getting hurt. One little trip or fall can really cause a lot of damage, and that can make it harder to complete tasks around the home – such as cooking, cleaning and general maintenance and upkeep. 

And while having someone else to take over extra duties is helpful, it also puts a lot of pressure on one person. In a retirement village, there are plenty of people around to assist with whatever may be required. From simply tending to the garden so it’s just the inside jobs that need to be focused on, or weekly cleaning and bringing in meals, every resident gets to choose their ‘level of care’. 

This means the couple can continue to live independently, as long as they wish, but with the security of knowing help is just a phone call away.  

 

Health and medical issues

From getting to the doctors, to keeping up to date with prescriptions, medicines, tests and other health-related appointments, it might take a lot to manage the care required for an individual with medical issues. 

Depending on what’s needed on a daily basis, the time may come where living independently is no longer possible. And it can be difficult for a couple to realise they are unable to stay in their home, or for one person to have to move into care, leaving the other in their home alone.  

This is where a retirement village with an onsite care facility can offer the best of both worlds, having access to a 24hr emergency call system and providing continuum of care when required or having one person in care whilst the other is still residing in the village and only a short walk away, making home visits easy. This provides peace of mind for not only the couple, but their family too. 

 

Supporting and staying independent

For many retirees, keeping their independence is a key part of their fulfilment and happiness. Which is totally understandable! When you’ve looked after yourself for so many years, it’s hard to give up the freedom and responsibility that comes with that. 

And many retirement communities know this too. It’s their aim to support their residents to live the way they want, for as long as they want. With a helping hand ready for whenever they ask for it.  

From regular outings to onsite facilities and activities, it’s often a lot easier for people to stay social and mobile when they live in a community. In fact, it can have plenty of health benefits too! 

 

The safety and security of community living 

While there are many benefits of living in a retirement village, one of the most important is the safety provided by 24/7 security surveillance and someone always on call to assist – no matter what is required. Whether it is a health or safety issue, residents are able to rest assured they are well looked after.  

 

Access to patient-centred and multi-level care

It’s a difficult balance when a retired couple has different health needs. Of course it is important to remain together for as long as possible, but sometimes one person may require more care than they are able to get in their current residential environment. 

And this is where a retirement village with an onsite hospital facility is so crucial. Because this means you can remain in close proximity to one another, without having to venture too far from the comfort of home. 

Whether someone just needs a few days or weeks recuperating, regular care, or to move on a more permanent basis, it is much easier for the other person to visit – and also have wrap-around support from the care workers and a community of like-minded retirees.  

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Here at Highgrove Village we are passionate about helping couples with different health needs stay happy and connected, no matter their journey. And our on-site hospital, Patrick Ferry House, allows us to provide a high level of care to our residents. For more information on our Family First ethos, we invite you to get in touch. Our friendly staff are only a phone call away.