Firstly, they want everyone to know that retirement villages aren’t simply a “rebranding” of the old folks’ homes of the past.

“I get this question a lot, but I beg to differ. The term ‘retirement village’, or what we call ‘senior living’, is not simply a rebranding of ‘old folks’ home’. Retirement villages often offer a more active, independent lifestyle with various amenities to suit the senior’s lifestyle and activities. They are designed for seniors who can live on their own but want a sense of community. That’s where the senior living part comes to life, in contrast to the model of an ‘old folks’ home’ or nursing homes, where they typically provide more comprehensive care for those with significant health or mobility needs,” Chen of KLW asserts.

“Traditional old folks’ homes are often associated with loneliness and limited facilities, making retirement there unappealing. Fortunately, a positive shift is
underway with the emergence of retirement villages. These communities are often tailored for seniors who are independent and want to lead an active lifestyle, and offer independent living units alongside amenities like landscaped grounds, community halls, and healthcare facilities, making them a preferred choice,” shares Ang, the area general manager for Ascott Gurney Penang and Domitys KL.

Theng from Sunway Sanctuary concurs with his peers. “Unlike traditional old folks’ homes, retirement villages prioritise independence, choice, and a sense of belonging. Residents are encouraged to maintain their autonomy while having access to assistance and care services when needed. The emphasis is on enhancing the quality of life for seniors, promoting well-being, and fostering a strong sense of community.”

Among the reasons seniors would be enticed to stay at retirement villages is the fact that most are close by or even connected to wellness or medical centres. KLW, for example, is attached to a wellness hub that has several other facilities to support active ageing and is close to other facilities like Tong Xin Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Centre and Universiti Malaya Hospital. And, of course, Sunway Sanctuary has access to the plethora of offerings at Sunway Medical Centre.

For those who want a taste of what living in a retirement village would be like before committing to it, some spaces like Domitys and Sunway Sanctuary provide trial or short-term stays. Meanwhile, KLW even offers senior daycare for those who just want to be part of a warm and friendly elderly community. Some retirement villages also offer specialty stays, where they care for a patient after or before a medical operation.

Reflecting a commitment to improving seniors’ quality of life and recognising ageing as an active and engaged phase, retirement villages signify a transformative approach to meeting the needs of the ageing population. Proximity to wellness and medical centres enhances the appeal, aligning with evolving family dynamics and a cultural shift towards prioritising a fulfilling ageing experience. These communities prioritise independence, social engagement, and well- being, offering diverse amenities for a holistic lifestyle. And the insights from representatives from Sunway Sanctuary, KLW, and Domitys highlight that senior living transcends a simple rebranding, instead fostering autonomy and strong community bonds.

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