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on the Friday, January 17, 2025
Choosing where to live in your later years is a big decision, and it’s important to choose an option that suits your lifestyle, health needs, and future plans. In Australia, two common pathways are retirement villages and aged care homes (also known as residential aged care facilities). While both support older Australians, they offer very different experiences.
This guide will help you understand the key differences and decide which is the right fit for you or your loved one.
Retirement villages are designed for older Australians (usually 55+) who are independent or need only minimal support. They offer a community-focused lifestyle with private living units - like villas, townhouses, or apartments - and shared amenities such as:
Some villages offer optional services like housekeeping, meals, and in-home care, allowing residents to age in place comfortably.
Best for: Independent seniors looking for a low-maintenance, active lifestyle in a like-minded community.
Aged care homes (or nursing homes) provide 24/7 personal and medical care for older people who can no longer live independently. These facilities offer:
Entry to aged care homes requires an ACAT assessment (Aged Care Assessment Team), and fees are often partly subsidised by the Australian Government.
Best for: Seniors with high care needs who require ongoing support or supervision.
| Feature | Retirement Village | Aged Care Home |
|---|---|---|
| Independence Level | Independent or low-level care | Moderate to high-level care needs |
| Accommodation Style | Private units or villas | Private or shared rooms with care staff |
| Medical Support | Limited/in-home care available | 24/7 nursing and personal care |
| Lifestyle & Social | Active, community-oriented living | Focus on safety, support, and wellbeing |
| Government Subsidies | Not government-subsidised (mostly private) | Government funding available |
| Entry Requirements | Age-related criteria (55+) | ACAT assessment required |
| Costs | Entry fee + ongoing service fees | Means-tested fees + accommodation charges |
1. Current and Future Care Needs
Are you still independent or starting to need more daily support? Retirement villages are ideal for now - but consider if you'll need extra care in the near future.
2. Lifestyle Preferences
Do you want a socially active community with events and recreation, or a quieter, more care-focused environment?
3. Financial Situation
Retirement villages often have complex contracts, exit fees, and monthly charges. Aged care homes involve different funding models, often including government support. It’s wise to seek financial advice.
4. Level of Medical Support
If your health is declining, or you have a progressive condition, aged care homes offer peace of mind with round-the-clock care.
Yes. Many older Australians move into a retirement village first, then transition into aged care when their needs change. Some retirement villages even have co-located aged care services, allowing for a smoother move when the time comes.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer - choosing between a retirement village and an aged care home depends on your needs, lifestyle goals, and support requirements.
If you're still active and independent, a retirement village may offer the lifestyle you want. If you or a loved one needs daily medical or personal care, an aged care home provides the right level of support.
Use Retirement Living Online to explore a wide range of retirement villages and aged care homes across Australia. You can compare services, check availability, and find the right fit for your needs - all in one place.
To begin to search for your ideal retirement village in your chosen location, click on your state below:
