Before You Move
Important questions for prospective residents of retirement villages.
The Aged-care Rights Service Inc. supports the concept of retirement village living.
It has been ascertained from the numerous inquiries received by TARS that a considerable minority of residents failed to consider important issues before moving into their village.
The following topics have been compiled, in question form, to assist prospective residents when deciding to move to a village.
- Have I fully discussed my decision to enter a retirement village with my family, friends or advisor?
- Would I be moving to a retirement village because the general maintenance of my house has become too difficult for me? Have I considered other options eg home help, self contained or serviced apartments for older people?
- Does the village have adequate services and facilities for all my present needs and will it continue to do so as I get older or if I get sick, become disabled, need a wheelchair, walking aid or bath rail?
- What alternatives do I have if I become too frail to live alone? For example, does the village have services such as nursing care and an emergency call system?
- Is the village nearby local facilities such as shops, transport, doctors, churches etc?
- Will the village lifestyle, such as including social and religious activities, suit me? Have I spoken to the Residents' Committee or other village residents?
- Are the village grounds secure, pleasant and ell tended? Does it have adequate external lighting, paths for easy access?
- Have I looked at other villages to compare the facilities, services and financial arrangements?
- Have I received a disclosure statement and other adequate information about the retirement village? Have I shown the documentation to an independent solicitor?
- Do I fully understand the contract I am about to sign?
- Can I pay the recurrent charges / levies comfortably on my present income?
- If the recurrent charges / levies rise, would my future income be sufficient to meet the payments?
- What will my financial position be if my spouse or partner dies?
- Will I be eligible for rental assistance from the Commonwealth Government?
- Do I understand my rights of occupancy? For example, can I make changes to the inside of my premises, have someone visit or live with me, keep a pet, do my own gardening etc.
