Contrary to popular belief, retirement villages and aged care facilities are not actually the same thing. While they are similar in that they provide accommodation for the elderly, they differ in that they are fashioned for people that are at different life stages and that have different needs.

If you want to learn more about the differences between a retirement village and an aged care facility, then explore these differences with us below.

What Is A Retirement Village?

First, let’s discuss what a retirement village is. A retirement village consists of private homes that offer a wide range of facilities for both relaxation and recreation. Retirement villages also reserve spaces for services from doctors, physiotherapists, hairdressers, and other services.

You can say that retirement villages are more lifestyle-driven. Residents have more independence and flexibility to travel and maintain a social and active lifestyle. However, residents may also enjoy additional care services if needed.

Occupants that enter residential villages over enter living relatively independently. Funding is generally self-funded by means of personal funds, superannuation, and/or Age Pension. 

There are several models for retirement villages which the fees and services depend on. Some types of retirement villages include:

1). Lifestyle resort, where occupants can purchase a freehold title and lease the land to build their homes on.

2). Freehold complexes, where occupants can purchase the freehold title though property can differ in charges compared to facilities that are registered as a retirement village.

3). Right to occupy, where the occupant can pay for the right to live on the property while also having the option to pay for the other services.

What Is An Aged Care Facility?

Unlike a retirement village which may or may not require additional care or support, aged care facilities provide accommodation, support services, and health care to seniors that need regular and consistent supervision and assistance.

While retirement villages are lifestyle-driven, aged care facilities are more needs-driven. People who enter aged care facilities need accommodation, health care, and support services to help meet their ongoing needs. 

Aged care facilities are often funded and subsidised by the government. They are ideal for individuals that are unable to live independently. Because of this, aged care facilities can help meet needs such as personal maintenance, feeding, and other basic needs.

In terms of size, aged care facilities are generally smaller than retirement villages. Fees cover all the expenses of care that include both accommodations and meals. Additional services and amenities such as newspaper deliveries may also be covered by these fees.

Residents that have a challenging time with daily self-management are aided with scheduled activities which they may participate in if they so choose. This way, residents can have their daily needs met in an environment that is supportive and caring.

Retirement Villages vs. Aged Care Facilities

Retirement villages are generally available to individuals that are aged 55 or up, while applicants for aged care facilities may need to undergo an assessment process known as the ACAT assessment. This is so that they can get the right level of assistance and care that can meet their unique needs.

Retirement villages also offer a more independent lifestyle for those that do not need additional living assistance. 

While aged care falls under the federal Australian government legislation and regulation, retirement villages are governed by State Government rules and regulations. The Federal Government subsidises aged care but retirement villages are paid by the resident. 

However, various retirement villages also have aged care facilities on site, though financial rules are different. Make sure you are clear on which of the accommodations you are settling into. 

When you move into aged care, you may receive pension benefits and tax benefits, and the government may even provide additional funding assistance for those that have limited means. 

Nonetheless, retirement villages and aged care facilities are quite different in terms of the lifestyle they provide, the type of accommodation, the services they have, the occupants, and much more. 

Summary

While there are common misconceptions that retirement villages and aged care facilities are the same, they are actually very different.

Retirement villages are for those that can live independently. Residents fund their occupancy in the village and can enjoy various recreational amenities.

Meanwhile, aged care facilities are for those that cannot live independently and need round-the-clock care and assistance. They are often cared for by trained staff and their stay in aged care facilities is funded by the federal government.

If you are looking for the best-aged care provider for your loved ones in Melbourne, please come and see our facilities at Iris Manor and find out for yourself how good our place is for your loved ones.

Please call us today for an appointment on 1800 983 363 or send us an inquiry.