Why should elderly people consider living in specialized complexes?

The problems of loneliness among elderly people

Elderly people often face serious issues related to loneliness and the need to live independently. This situation causes deep concern among their loved ones, such as children and other caring relatives, who strive to spend more time with the elderly and sometimes even decide to move in with them.

To help address this challenging issue, society offers various services for the elderly, including home assistance. However, there is also an alternative – the creation of specialized housing complexes and communities designed specifically for senior citizens.

Specialized facilities for the elderly

Such institutions can include both public and private options. Some of these complexes are aimed at people who have lost the ability to care for themselves and, therefore, are on par with medical facilities. At the same time, there are those designed for individuals who have maintained their independence and life skills. This means that such people can:

• To move around independently
• Make purchases
• Engaging in conversations on current topics, for example, discussing classic literature.

However, even among active retirees, there is usually social isolation, as many elderly people prefer to communicate with their peers, which leads them to avoid burdening the younger generation with their concerns.

Advantages of specialized residential complexes

Thus, the idea of transitioning to more comfortable living conditions, where one can be surrounded by like-minded individuals and lead a more active social life, is gradually becoming relevant for many elderly citizens. Nowadays, developers are capable of creating such residential complexes, taking into account the specific needs of elderly people, and often focus their efforts on attracting retirees from high-income countries.

Social circumstances that promote the development of volunteering

In addition, there are serious circumstances that contribute to the development of such residential communities for the elderly. Many of them own their homes, purchased many years ago. Over time, children grow up and leave the parental home, and partners may pass away, leaving elderly individuals alone in spacious apartments. As a result of this situation, there arises a need to sell the excess and find more compact and suitable housing options, which makes specialized homes for the elderly quite appealing.

The structure of specialized homes for the elderly

As for the retirement homes themselves, they are designed with all the needs and characteristics of elderly citizens in mind. These specialized residential complexes have their own unique organizational structure, which differs from traditional residential buildings. Typically, such communities are built in picturesque and environmentally friendly areas, such as:

• Resorts
• Mountainous areas
• Coastlines

These complexes are secluded and cozy cottage communities with small houses, situated on well-maintained grounds. In some cases, these settlements are located within cities, allowing their residents to lead a more active lifestyle.

Example of a successful project

For example, in Slovenia, a residential complex for the elderly was created near the historic town of Kamnik, which is surrounded by beautiful low mountains and situated on flat terrain. The complex is known as"Under the Rock"offers a variety of amenities for its residents, including elevators that are specifically designed for easy access for wheelchair users.

Conclusion

Ultimately, specialized homes for elderly citizens contribute significantly to improving the quality of life by providingcomfortand the possibilitycommunicationand alsoactive participationIn social life. These institutions represent an important step towards ensuring a respectful and dignified standard of living for elderly people, allowing them to feel their significance and happiness in society.

Comfort and accessibility

In the village of Lazaris Mill, located in Cyprus, the doors have wide openings, providing comfortable access for all residents. Stairs are not included here, and residents can easily reach the second floor using a specially equipped elevator. The amenities for residents also include quality lighting, the absence of thresholds, and spacious bathrooms, which meet modern requirements for living spaces.

Cozy apartments

The organization of life in Lazaris Mill implies that the apartment sizes are small, as they are designed for one or two people. However, these apartments offer opportunities that go beyond a typical dormitory. Here, residents can:

• to arrange your space as you see fit;
• to cook food in the kitchen when there is a desire and skill;
• choosing programs on the television;
• set your own rest time.

Mini-infrastructure

Thanks to the location of the village of Lazaris Mill, the necessary conditions for the life of elderly people have been created: there are cafes, a dining hall, a bar, several restaurants, shops, and a pharmacy. Often, you can find a bus stop nearby or arrange special transportation for trips to the nearest settlement. In addition, such complexes are equipped with leisure spaces, as it is expected that elderly residents will spend a lot of time socializing and enjoying their free time. The following amenities are provided here:

• conference rooms;
• cozy common areas;
• libraries.

Active lifestyle

Special attention in these complexes is given to sports and active recreation, as many residents want to maintain their physical fitness. All types of activities are aligned with medical recommendations. The complex usually includes:

• gyms;
• swimming pools;
• tennis courts for those who enjoy an active pastime.

Leisure organization

As for the services provided, the management of such establishments takes the organization of leisure activities for their guests very seriously. For example, the network...Retirement Villages Groupoffers elderly people various activities, such as:

• walking
• fitness classes
• concerts;
• interest clubs: dancing, gardening, painting, and handicrafts;
• movie screenings.

Medical support

An important feature of comprehensive service is the ability to provide assistance and medical care for each resident. The apartments are equipped with call buttons for the staff, and there is a medical facility within the complex.

Daily care services

In addition to the above, access to daily care services is offered, which is extremely necessary for people who have difficulties with self-care, as well as with paperwork and moving around outside. In the Hungarian settlement of Matra Resort, there is an option to choose from four types of accommodation:

• Independent life:for those who need minimal support;
• Assisted living:for those who need help with everyday tasks;
• Home for the elderly:for people who need assistance with standing up, changing clothes, and eating;
• Hospice:for individuals with serious chronic illnesses.

Living conditions

As for the living conditions in such establishments, residents often need to be of retirement age, with a minimum threshold typically set at 55 years. However, younger individuals also have the right to purchase property, and their apartments may remain locked until they retire or may be rented out. The rules may also regulate the visiting procedures: in some facilities, guests can stay in their friends' apartments without restrictions, while in others, they will be offered accommodation in a hotel.

Interior and atmosphere

There are certain restrictions on changes to the interior, as after the lease ends, it is likely that restoration work will be needed to return the apartment to its original condition. However, tenants have the option to choose their own furniture and decor, which helps create a comfortable and cozy atmosphere.

Types of real estate

Currently, in the foreign market, you can find housing that is state-funded or represents affordable options, but such offers are usually intended for citizens of the countries where they are located. At the same time, there are also commercial properties that can be purchased by foreigners, as high-quality apartments are offered at market prices.

Housing prices in different countries

The prices for purchasing real estate vary depending on the geographical location. For example:

• In the village of Lazarus Mill in Cyprus, the cost of studios started from€90,000...while two-bedroom apartments were available from...€130,000.
• In Slovenia, in a retirement complex in Kamnik, they are asking for a studio starting from€80,000...and for an apartment with two bedrooms — from€180,000.

The situation in the United Kingdom

In the UK, at Retirement Villages Group, apartments can be found at prices ranging from£100,000to£700,000This is equivalent to€120,000 to €850,000According to information from the Rightmove website, the average price of secondary housing in retirement villages is around£300,000 (€350,000)The new property is valued at approximately£470,000 (€570,000).

Example of a residential complex

A striking example of a residential complex for the elderly is the project by Retirement Villages Group, located in the village of Dunchurch. In the Forum Mare Nostrum complex, residents are required to make an initial payment, which ranges from€100,000to€230,000...after which monthly payments will need to be made in the range of...€350to€950Additionally, renting housing is also widespread in such settlements, which expands opportunities for future residents.

Maintenance expenses

It should be noted that the current costs of maintaining residential properties can be quite high, so it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the complete list of payments and services offered in such complexes.

The practice of leasehold in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, there is an active practice of selling real estate on leasehold terms. This means that the owner is obligated to pay regular fees for the land they are essentially renting. For example, at McCarthy Stone, the annual fee ranges from £400 to £600, which is equivalent to approximately €480–720.

In addition, the residents of this company also incur maintenance costs, which for small one-bedroom apartments can range from £1,500 to £3,000 per year (from €1,800 to €3,600). In more expensive residential complexes or with high-quality maintenance, this amount can reach £10,000 (approximately €12,000) per year.

For example, in the Retirement Villages Group network, residents are required to contribute between £5,000 and £10,000 per year. The collected funds are used to cover administrative costs, maintenance of common areas, and the organization of round-the-clock security. Housing utilities are paid separately by the residents.

Housing expenses in the USA for elderly people

In the United States, the cost of living in specialized facilities for the elderly that offer medical care ranges from approximately $3,500 to $7,500 per month.

If a resident experiences health issues such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia, this amount can increase to $5,500–$9,000 per month. The included expenses cover the following items:

• housing rental
• payment for utilities;
• administrative and technical services;
• cleaning;
• nutrition
• medical supervision.

Personal expenses, such as internet or hairdressing services, typically do not count towards the total amount. In comparison, the cost of renting a place in a nursing home in the USA can range from $8,000 to $12,000 per month.

Prospects for investing in housing for the elderly

Investment opportunities related to residential complexes and retirement villages represent a quite attractive area. Considering the global trend of an aging population, interest in specialized residential complexes is increasing.

The key advantage of these properties is their high level of reliability. Real estate agencies focused on selling housing for elderly citizens claim that the income from such properties is comparable to the income from other quality residential complexes for long-term rental.

The main positive aspect is that elderly tenants are usually reliable clients, which significantly reduces the risks of non-payment and property damage.

Additionally, in this real estate market, there is an opportunity for investment with guaranteed income. When purchasing a residential property, the investor enters into an agreement with a management company, which becomes responsible for renting out the property and paying a certain income to the owner.

Disadvantages of investing in housing for the elderly

However, it is important to note some downsides related to the possibility of "exit fees." These fees may be required when reselling, and sometimes even when subletting housing for seniors within certain projects, which can pose a barrier for sellers or tenants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize the importance of creating a comfortable and safe environment for elderly people, as this can significantly improve their quality of life. The issues of loneliness and lack of communication are becoming increasingly relevant in today's world. This is why initiatives such as retirement homes are gaining more popularity. These complexes allow people to be among like-minded individuals, strengthen social connections, and provide necessary services, including medical care when needed.

In addition, it should be noted that many elderly people want to continue leading an active lifestyle, and such facilities support their aspirations by offering various activities and events. Being part of a community, they can enjoy socializing, participate in leisure activities, and maintain physical activity.

Comfort and safety

Furthermore, it is important to highlight aspects of safety and convenience – such as:

• availability of infrastructure;
• thoughtful design of living spaces.

This demonstrates attention to the needs of older adults. Of course, with the growing elderly population, further innovations and improvements will be needed in this area, but it is already evident how the right approach can significantly change and enhance the lives of retirees.

The more we recognize the importance of these initiatives, the more elderly people will be able to enjoy their lives surrounded by care, comfort, and, equally importantly, the company of those with whom they can share their thoughts and experiences.

I hope this article will help draw attention to this issue and provide support for those who are considering housing options for their elderly loved ones.