As we age, the question of where we want to spend our golden years becomes increasingly important. For many older adults, the decision comes down to two main options: retirement living or residential aged care.

While both options provide a place to call home, they are quite different in terms of care and lifestyle. Understanding the differences between these two types of accommodation can help you make an informed decision about which option is right for you or your loved one.

What is Retirement living?

Retirement living is designed for older adults who are able and wish to live independently but want to live in a community of supportive, like-minded people their own age. Retirement villages typically provide accommodation such as villas or apartments, and they may also offer additional services such as meals and social activities. Retirement living is often considered a more independent and active lifestyle option, where older adults can maintain their independence and continue to socialise with others their age.

What is residential aged care?

On the other hand, residential aged care is for older adults who require more care and support than can be provided in their own home. This can include physical and medical support, as well as assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing and personal hygiene care.

Residential aged care residences, such as The Richardson and The Queenslea are staffed by 24Hr Registered Nurses and carers to provide support to residents. On top of 24hr support, all meals, cleaning, laundry and activities are included.

Oryx homes also offer wellness solutions which include rehabilitation physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Residential Aged Care living is considered more suitable for older adults who have been approved by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) as needing a higher level of care and support.

Which one should you choose?

When deciding between retirement living and residential aged care, it is important to consider the level of care and support that is needed. If you or your loved one requires more extensive care and assistance with daily activities, then residential aged care may be the better option. However, if you or your loved one are able to live independently but wish to live in a community of people their own age, then retirement living may be the perfect fit.

It is important to note that there are different types of residential aged care living available such as dementia care and also different types of retirement living, such as independent living, assisted living, and serviced apartments.

Whilst The Richardson in West Perth offers Residential Aged Care, The Queenslea in Claremont offers both Residential Aged Care and Retirement Living Apartments, as well as an Early Learning Centre for intergenerational care. Oryx residences can accommodate all levels and it is important to understand what each of these offer and whether they match your needs.

With our own on-site multi-skilled support workers at The Queenslea Retirement Apartments, residents residing in the Retirement Apartments can gain access to support services such as meals, cleaning, laundry and some personal care support as needed.

The costs

It is also important to consider the costs involved when making a decision between the two living options as each operate under different legislations and separate financial models. Residential aged care is governed by the Commonwealth Aged Care Act, whilst Retirement living sits under the WA State legislated Retirement Villages Act.

At Oryx, we have dedicated consultants at each residence who can guide you through the processes and costs of each option. It is important however to explore affordability for your specific financial circumstance with an independent financial advisor.

Deciding between retirement living and residential aged care can be a difficult one and will largely depend on ones individual needs and preferences. If you or someone you know would like to speak with our dedicated, on-site consultant’s about your situation or that of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact us or click here to book a tour today.