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on the Monday, December 16, 2024
Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, and this rich multiculturalism extends into its retirement communities. Today, more retirement villages are recognising the importance of supporting culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) older Australians by creating inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environments.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than one in three older Australians were born overseas, with many having migrated from countries such as Italy, Greece, China, India, Vietnam, and the Netherlands. As these communities age, the demand for retirement living options that reflect their language, customs, and cultural values is growing rapidly.
Retirement villages across Australia are rising to the challenge - offering services, social programs, and amenities that cater to a wide range of cultural preferences and faith-based needs.
One of the most important factors for CALD residents is being able to communicate comfortably. Many retirement villages now employ bilingual staff or offer translation and interpreting services. This not only helps with everyday living but also ensures residents feel heard and understood - especially when it comes to health, wellbeing, and social participation.
Food is a powerful way to connect with culture. Retirement communities are increasingly offering culturally diverse menus, celebrating traditional holidays, and hosting cultural events that honour residents’ heritage.
From Lunar New Year celebrations to Greek Orthodox Easter, retirement villages are creating spaces where older Australians can continue their cultural traditions while sharing them with others.
Many CALD residents also value access to faith-based services and rituals. Some retirement villages are affiliated with specific religious organisations or offer on-site chapels, prayer rooms, or spiritual services aligned with different beliefs.
In addition, partnerships with local places of worship allow residents to stay connected to their faith and spiritual communities.
Feeling a sense of belonging is vital at any age. Culturally inclusive retirement villages offer community activities, language groups, and cultural clubs that encourage connection between residents of similar backgrounds—while also fostering multicultural friendships across cultures.
Staff are often trained in cultural awareness to support inclusive, respectful interactions with all residents.
Living in a multicultural retirement village offers many benefits, including:
Cultural expression: Residents can continue practising their traditions, customs, and language.
Greater wellbeing: Feeling understood and respected contributes to emotional and mental wellbeing.
Enriched communities: Diversity enhances the social fabric of retirement villages, creating vibrant, dynamic living environments.
If cultural support is important to you or a loved one, look for retirement villages that:
Offer services in your preferred language.
Celebrate your culture’s holidays and events.
Provide culturally appropriate food and activities.
Employ staff who understand and respect cultural differences.
Are affiliated with cultural or religious organisations.
You can search for culturally inclusive retirement villages across Australia using directories like Retirement Living Online, which allow you to filter by location, services, and community features.
As Australia’s ageing population becomes more diverse, retirement villages are embracing inclusivity and cultural celebration. Whether it’s through language support, cultural cuisine, religious observance, or community connection, these villages are helping older Australians feel at home - wherever they’re from.
