A Guide to Senior Living: Assisted Living with Care, Retirement Villages & More

Are you a senior and are looking for the home to spend your retirement? Or are you trying to find a well-appointed but affordable housing for your eldery relatives? See our guide about options & find a suitable home that suits your needs!

RETIREMENT HOUSING FOR SENIORS IN SOUTH AFRICA

After spending most of our years in the hustle and bustle of the ever-busy city life, we all want to retire to a nice, tranquil, and relaxing neighbourhood and houses.

Retirement homes/housing for seniors are accommodations suitable for the aged. It offers facilities and features that help senior citizens live a comfortable life. Some of such facilities include swimming pools, frail care, nurse sisters, 24/hrs care, safety, wheelchair access, security, etc.

These houses tend to help aged citizens live a sociable life. Since all the occupants are retired, it allows them time to bond together and make friends.

Options for Retirement Housing in South Africa:

In South Africa, retirement housing is provided by both the government and privately-owned organisations.

Government-owned Retirement Housing is available to senior citizens who are sixty (60) years and above. However, privately owned retirement housing offers a different age admission. This starts from 49 – 60 - 80 years of age.

Government-owned Vs Private owned retirement housing in South Africa. Government-owned retirement housing takes about 14 days to process and provides feedback in 30 days. However, this can take longer.

To apply for a retirement home owned by the government, simply go to a retirement home owned, funded, and endorsed by the provincial government or go to the Department of Social Development closest to you. All forms are available at the facilities.

The cost of retirement housing owned by the government varies from one housing facility and from one province to another.

Privately owned retirement housing in South Africa cuts across all the provinces in the Country. Each Company has its policies and age admission. Also, they offer different facilities such as swimming pool, fitness clubs, gardens, games, laundry, housekeeping etc.

The privately-owned retirement homes tend to have more options with various prices. It could cost from R5,000/month to as high as 29,000/month. These houses can be found by searching online or visiting your local municipality office.

ASSISTED LIVING HOUSING FOR SENIORS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Assisted living housing is a housing facility that helps senior citizens who require help with everyday living activities, but still want to live an independent life as much as they can.

Task they might need help with can be one or more of the following:

• *Laundry
• *Bathing
• *Using their Medications
• *Cooking and Eating
• *Toileting
• *Dressing
• *Strolling
• *Housekeeping chores, etc.

Characteristics of Assisted Living housing/facilities for Seniors. Assisted living housing for seniors are mainly focused on helping older citizens with:

• Helping with daily activities such as cleaning, bathing, feeding, toileting, etc. -Helping with social activities such as sport, swimming, playing golf, going shopping, etc. -Helping seniors with health activities such as using their medications, checking their blood pressures, sugar level, nursing care, etc.

Options

• Basic
• Medium Level
• Premium Level
• Monthly Plan
• Yearly Plan
• Short term stay

Cost

Cost of Assisted in living in South Africa depends on several factors.

• Basic Assisted homes – R,8000+/month
• Middle market Assisted Homes – R 17,000+/month
• Upmarket Assisted living homes – 40,000+/month

Also, cost can change dramatically depending on the facility, services and extras attached or selected by the applicant.

For example, adding a frail care service will increase the cost from about 30% - 50% upward.

Requirements for assisted living homes for seniors

Requirements vary from homes to homes. However, below are the general requirements for Assisted home living for seniors in South Africa.

• Must be a citizen of South Africa.
• Seniors should be from the age of 55+ (Depending on facility)
• Must be receiving pension or old-age grant.
• Seniors should need assistance.
• ID Number.

RETIREMENT VILLAGES/COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Are you planning to retire soon? Are you just retired?

Or do you want a nice, safe, and tranquil environment for your loved ones? Then a retirement home is one of the best places to be for senior citizens.

Most properties/estates in the cities or towns do not have the facilities and benefits attached to living in a retirement village. Some of us are too busy to visit our aged parents and loved ones, thereby leaving them to stay all by themselves, without a close friend or relative around them. Also, they do not engage in any physical activities or sports that help them stay active, uplift their spirit and mood, and make them happier and healthier.

Retirement villages are estates designed for senior citizens who are 49 years and above. They offer several facilities such as libraries, tennis courts, swimming pools, 24 hours security, visit from healthcare professionals, social activities, fitness clubs, golf courses, healthcare centres etc.

In South Africa, Retirement villages come with several options such as:

-Monthly rental properties. -Outright buying of property (Mostly Life right) -Some retirement villages come in units, standalone houses, studios, or apartments. -Also, some of the retirement villages have the option for assisted living suites.

Locations

GUATENG PROVINCE

Trans-50 Jakaranda Park Retirement Village cnr 23rd Ave and Haarhoff Str, Rietfontein, Pretoria.

This retirement village is one of the oldest of the 50-Trans retirement villages. Located in Rietfontein, the street is covered with Jacaranda trees within a secluded suburb, offering a tranquil environment with beautiful gardens.

Facilities/Features

• 93 Apartments.
• Hairdressing salon.
• Transport to shops.
• 24-hour Complex Security.
• Nursing sister Visits.
• Laundry Service.

Flower Foundation Retirement Villages

Unit 4, Surrey Square Office Park, 330 Surrey Avenue

SANDTON & RANDBURG

Flower Foundation offers a variety of flats and apartments that suits your needs. It is sited in one of the highbrow locations in Johannesburg. However, quiet and calm.

Facilities/Features

• 24-hour security
• Church services.
• Library
• Dining room and lounges for entertainment and socialising
• Various organised activities and hobbies.
• Available emergency panic buttons in all rooms or handheld
• Nursing staff on site or accessible for emergencies
• Game evenings/Social activities.
• Visiting doctor, physiotherapist, podiatrist, hairdresser, manicurist etc.

Riversands Retirement Village

13 Leeu Street, Jordaan Park, Heidelberg. The Riversands Retirement Village is in one of the most sought-after suburbs of Heidelberg, Jordaan park.

The Retirement Village is close to all amenities such as Hospitals (Heidelberg University Hospital and Suikerbosrand Clinic & Health Care Centre), shopping facilities, churches, restaurants, banks, etc.

This Village offers well-designed 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom houses and apartments.

Facilities/Features

• Social Activities
• Assisted Living
• Fully Operational Frail Care facility
• Laundry service
• 24-hour Security

Golden Harvest 1 Randburg Retirement Village

Cnr CR Swart Drive and President Fouche, Bromhof SANDTON & RANDBURG Built in 1984, Golden Harvest 1 Randburg Retirement Village remains one of the oldest retirement villages in this location. It offers 100 living units, including a staff quarters, lounge, dining room, etc.

Facilities/Features

• 100 Cottages
• 6 beds in Mid care Assisted Living
• 19 beds in Frail care
• Swimming Pool with Safety rails and stairs.
• Hairdressing (Open Tuesday - Saturday 8am till 1pm)
• Garaging (Single detached lock-up garage)
• Transport to shops (Courtesy bus available on Tuesdays - Thursdays for residents)
• 24hr CCTV security system
• Library Service
• Nursing sister (6 Sisters, 2 enrolled nurses, 2 auxiliary nurses, 8 care workers)

WESTERN CAPE

Plett Manor Retirement Village Plettenberg Bay GEORGE and GARDEN ROUTE - EDEN

One of the most picture-perfect retirement villages in Africa. Home to over 300 South African bird species and close to the beach and garden routes. This location offers comfortable seasons with even rainfall and a mild Mediterranean climate.

Facilities/Features

• 111 of Cottages
• 54 of Apartments
• 54 beds in Mid care Assisted Living
• 24 beds in Frail care.
• Community Centre
• Hairdressing
• Pets allowed
• Garaging
• Transport to shops
• Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• Medical Doctor
• Nursing sister
• Swimming Pool
• Laundry Service
• Gym
• Library Service
• Wi-Fi

Evergreen Muizenberg – Retirement Village

Sunrise Boulevard, South Peninsula, Cape Town. Evergreen is located 30 minutes’ drive from Cape Town. It is sited on an expansive ground with boardwalks strolls and benches for a relaxing time in the gardens. It is a charming village for nature lovers. The calmness and tranquillity in this villages gives inner peace.

Facilities/Features

• 113 Cottages
• 147 Apartments
• 31 beds in Frail care
• Community Centre
• Social activities
• Hairdressing
• Pets allowed
• Garaging
• Restaurant
• Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• Nursing sister
• Swimming Pool
• Laundry Service
• Gym
• Library Service

Cle du Cap Retirement village

Pollsmoor Rd, Kirstenhof, Cape Town.

Cle du Cap, which means “the key to Cape” is set amidst vineyards and Constantiaberg mountain, which gives it a beautiful, quiet, tranquil, and unique feeling.

Facilities/Features

• 2- and 3-bedroom houses.
• library (well stocked)
• Free internet
• 139 units (sold on a Life Right basis)
• Clubhouse with lounge, dining room and bar facilities
• 24-hour security (electric fencing, perimeter CCTV-surveillance, and intercom systems)
• Beautiful, lush gardens
• Coffee shop
• Full equipped kitchen
• Game room
• Indoor heated swimming pool
• Spacious living areas with sliding doors. Patios

Avondrust Court Retirement Village

20 Rouwkoop Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town. This retirement village is in a mountainous environment, thereby giving seniors lovely mountain views to enjoy, a rose garden and 2 courtyards. The village offers the option of renting an apartment or purchasing a life right.

Facilities/Features

• 79 bed Apartments
• 33 beds in Mid care Assisted Living
• 38 beds in Frail care
• Hairdressing
• Garaging
• Transport to shops
• Restaurant
• Dining hall
• Entertainment and monthly events.
• Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• clinic
• Nursing sister
• Laundry Service
• Library Service

EASTERN CAPE

Fairlands Retirement Village 44 Vian Road, Cambridge West, East London, Eastern Cape.

Facilities/Features

• 157 Cottages.
• Braai areas.
• Library
• Chapel
• 24/7 Medical Support
• Safe and Security
• Hairdresser
• Gardens

THE FAIRBROOK RETIREMENT VILLAGE

100 Omar Cassem St, Road, Port Elizabeth, 6090

Facilities/Features

• 140 units apartments.
• Access Gate
• Built in Braai
• BIC
• Club House
• Patio
• Paving
• Pets Allowed
• Nursing Sister
• Electric Fencing
• Fenced
• Garden
• Kitchen

FREE STATE PROVINCE

Fichardt Park Retirement Village Cnr Benade Avenue & Stollreither Street, Fichardt Park, Bloemfontein

Facilities/Features

• 82 Cottages
• 30 beds in Frail care
• Hairdressing
• Transport to shops
• Restaurant
• 24-hour Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• 24-hour Nursing sister
• Laundry Service
• Library Service
• Wi Fi
• Religious Services
• Wellness Programmes
• Medication Management Programmes
• Lifestyle Enrichment Programmes

BAYSWATER RETIREMENT VILLAGE

5 BURGUNDY CRES, BAYSWATER, BLOEMFONTEIN, 9301

Facilities/Features

• Post Box
• Tuck shop
• Hairdresser
• Library
• Gardens
• Security Services
• Lounge
• Dining room and kitchens
• Exercise
• Church services
• Movies and Dstv

KWAZULUNATAL PROVINCE

Hibiscus Retirement Village

1 St Joseph’s Avenue, Umkomaas, SOUTH COAST

This is one of the largest retirement homes in South Africa. With over 600 cottages. It offers a wide range of options which includes, buying or renting. It offers several features such as bridge, line dancing, badminton, gym, swimming, crafts clubs, bowls, water aerobics, snooker, chess, table tennis, yoga, arts, etc.

Facilities/Features

• 600 Cottages
• Community Centre
• Pets allowed (Small dogs)
• Garaging, Complex Security
• Nursing sister, Library Service
• Wi Fi
• Striders and Strollers Walking Club
• Bible Study, Bowls Club
• Entertainment Groups

Amberglen Retirement Village

31 Karkloof Rd, HOWICK - HILTON

Facilities/Features

• 430 Cottages
• 47 beds in Frail care
• Community Centre
• Hairdressing
• Pets
• Transport to shops
• Restaurant (Breakfast at Amber Cafe from Mon-Fri and light lunches Mon-Sat), Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• The whole village is wheelchair friendly
• Medical Doctor are close by, 24-hour Nursing sister, Swimming Pool, Laundry Service, Library Service, Wi Fi (free limited Wi-Fi).

Amberfield Retirement Village

34 Mare Street, Howick, 3290

Amberfield offers property rental or buying option on their beautifully spacious village.

Facilities/features

• Complex of 400 units
• 46 bed Care Centre, Respite Care
• Assisted Living
• Catering
• Housekeeping
• Nursing care
• Cottage Care for residents
• Library, 24 hours security
• free Wi-Fi, Snooker room
• Hair Salon, function rooms
• large dining room
• large lounge area
• church services
• Exercise classes (a small fee is payable)
• Film shows
• Musical evenings
• A choir
• Activity clubs
• Guest speakers on interesting topics
• Quiz evenings
• Arts & crafts activities & exhibitions
• Bible Study groups and repertory groups

Sandown Retirement Village

27 Harvey Rd, Manors, Pinetown, 3610

This village has about 147 sectional units that are spaced from each other for privacy. It offers the option of one-, two- or three-bedroom cottages with an ample garden on each cottage. Also, there are a limited number of self-contained units in the village.

Facilities/Features

• Guest cottage
• Laundry
• Library
• Salon
• Large Swimming Pool
• snooker table
• lounge area
• bar area
• Bridge club and Scrabble
• Weekly exercise
• Yoga classes, Craft club, Movies, TV shows, etc.

MPUMALANGA PROVINCE

Mataffin Macadamia Retirement Village Nelspruit nr Samora Machel Dr and Matsafeni Rd, Mataffin.

This village offers a country style living environment. It sits on a 17-hectare, with lovely views, medical facilities and shopping centres located near the village. It also offers the option for assisted and lifestyle living.

Facilities/Features

• Bingo & Rummikub at the Care Centre
• Movies at the Care Centre
• Laundry services
• Call4Care emergency response
• House-keeping services
• Community centre with pool
• 40 Cottages
• 40 beds in Mid care Assisted Living
• 12 beds in Frail care Garaging (depending on unit)
• Dining room in the care centre
• 24-hour Complex Security guards, Wheelchair Access
• Medical Doctor (Pays visits to Care Centre)
• Nursing sister (on request)
• Library
• Wi-Fi

Aftree-Oord Retirement Village

7 Du Preez Street, Ext 29 Orchards Nelspruit.

This village is in the Kruger Lowveld, thereby offering its residents a spectacular view of nature’s beauty, making it an ideal place for seniors. It is close to the famous Kruger National Park and shopping malls.

Facilities/Features

• Lounge & Library Area
• Gymnasium
• Hair Salon
• Postal Services
• Dining Area
• Swimming Pool
• Nail Parlour
• Laundromat Services
• 24-hour Security

NORTH WEST PROVINCE

De Land Estate and Retirement Village de Land Estate, Potchefstroom.

Situated in a beautiful environment. This village offers 1 - 3-bedroom homes, and 1 bedroom assisted living apartments. It has herb gardens and fruit orchards, which means, residents can get fresh fruits, and fresh herds for cooking. It has a 2.6km perimeter route with paved walkways for walks and strolling.

Facilities/Features

• Restaurant
• 24-hour complex security
• Wheelchair Access
• Nursing sister
• Laundry Service
• Library Service
• Wi Fi
• Garaging
• Transports to shops
• Pets are allowed
• Hairdressing
• Community Centre
• Care Centre
• fitness activities

Casa Valde Retirement Estate

Rustenburg Rural, Rustenburg 299

Casa Valde retirement estate is located within the rolling hills of Magaliesburg mountains. It is surrounded by peace, tranquillity, and a warm climate all year round. At Casa Valde, expect a modern feel and care-free living. Also, it is close to shopping centres, resorts, and social clubs.

Facilities/Features.

• Panic buttons in all units for emergencies
• Nutritionally prepared meals
• 24 hour link to Telecare call centre
• Home based assisted care available
• Sub acute frail care on-site
• 24 hour emergency services
• library, salon
• Wheelchair friendly access
• Laundry services (available on request)
• Club house with lounge and patio
• 24 hour security and access control
• Nurse screening once a week
• Social activities
• Small pet friendly
• 24/7 medical care available
• Well maintained grounds and gardens
• Access to the gym and light weekly workouts

NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCE

Trans-50 Acacia Park Retirement Village 47 Jacobson Ave, Hadison Park, Kimberley.

Acadia is in Hadison park, where you have beautiful warm weather, complemented with blue skies and calm serenity. It offers two-bedroom villas with a private lock-up garage, one-bedroom flats, smaller studio apartments, and a 24-hour frail care centre. It offers both life-rights purchases and rentals.

Facilities/Features:

• 20 Cottages
• 72 Apartments
• 30 beds in Frail care
• Hairdressing
• Transport to shops
• Restaurant
• 24-hour Complex Security
• Wheelchair Access
• Medical Doctor (Visiting)
• Nursing sister (24 hour)
• Laundry Service
• Library Service
• Church service

Cost

The cost of renting/purchase vary from village to village. The number of rooms and other additional services tends to influence the prices.

Also, some of the homes/apartments can be on a “Life right contract”. This is perfect for individuals who do not have much capital to invest. Purchase

For One bedroom purchase – starting at R500,000 – R1,500, 000. While Upmarket prices for a one bedroom can go up to R2,000,000.

A two to three-bedroom purchase – starting from R800,000 – R4,000,000. While Upmarket prices for a two to three-bedroom can go up to R10,000,000+

Rentals

A one to two bedroom can go from R4,000 – R14,000 per month, with upmarket prices going as high as R17,000 – R25,000 per month.

NOTE:

Prices vary from village to village and are influenced by extra services needed by the senior.

Some of the properties are purchase on a “life rights scheme or contract”. It means the retiree purchases the right to use the unit/apartment/home for the remainder of their life. In a situation whereby they are couples, the right to use the property ends upon the passing away of the second couple. We recommend you check with your provider before signing the contracts or purchasing a life rights contract.

Requirements

• *Proof of funds.
• *Must be a citizen of South Africa.
• • Seniors should be from the age of 55+ (Depending on facility).
• *Must be receiving pension or old-age grant.
• *ID Number.
• *Some homes require non-refundable application fees

INDEPENDENT LIVING APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Independent living apartments are for seniors who do not require assistance or special care. They can carry out everyday activities all by themselves without the need for support or nursing assistance

Although independent living apartments are for independent seniors, they often have access to nursing care and emergency services. Also, they have access to assistance and medical care should the need arise.

This gives the family rest of mind, knowing that their loved ones are in safe hands.

There are several Independent living apartments in every province in South Africa. They come in different sizes, depending on the need and lifestyles of the senior.

WHERE TO FIND INDEPENDENT LIVING APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Most Independent living apartments for seniors can be found in retirement homes, old people home, retirement estates/villages, etc

Also, you can check online, visit the nearest Department of Social Development close to you, or go to your Municipality office.

Below are some of the Independent living apartments in South Africa.

Locations

• Larmenier Retirement Village 1 Derry St, Vredehoek, Cape Town, 8001

• Nazareth House 10 Park Ln, Port Elizabeth Central, Gqeberha, 6001

• Nazareth House 82 Mazisi Kunene Rd, Berea, Durban, 4001

• Nazareth House Webb St, Yeoville, Johannesburg, 2198

• Larmenier Village 170 Milner St, Waterkloof, Pretoria, 0145

• Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate - Independent Living Apartments & Care Centre Unit C5, Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate, 143 Langverwacht Road, Zevenwacht, Kuils River, 7580

• Buh-Rein Retirement Village c/o Buhrein Drive &, Lanzerac Ave, Cape Town, 7570

• Silver Stream Chalets

• 9 Heather St, Malanshof, Randburg, 2194

• Willowbrook Village 134 Willowbrook Pl, Sandown, Sandton, 2196

• Orchid Place 43 7th Street, Lower Houghton, Johannesburg.

• Maxhaven Village 5 Danie St, Cresta, Johannesburg, 2194

• Elm Park Village 1 Suzanne Cres, Northcliff, Johannesburg, 2195

• Silver Stream Village 9 Heather St, Malanshof, Randburg, 2194

• Kensington Gardens 75 11th Ave, Kensington, Johannesburg, 2094

• Zonneveld Village 38 Reyger St, Witpoortjie, Roodepoort, 1724

• Witpoortjie Village 69 Dromedaris St, Witpoortjie, Roodepoort, 1724

Cost

• Purchase prices for independent apartment for seniors = R700,000 – R2,000,000 (Mostly Life Right).
• Upmarket purchase can go as high as R3,500,000
• Rental prices for independent apartment for seniors – R3,000 – R14,000.
• Upmarket rental can go as high as R20,000.

Requirements

• Must be 50+ (depending on the homes age admission policy)
• Must be South African citizen
• Must be receiving pension or old-age grant.
• ID Number.
• Some homes require non-refundable application fee.
• Some homes charge monthly levies.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INDEPENDENT LIVING FOR SENIORS AND ASSISTED LIVING FOR SENIORS

Independent Living residents for seniors are designed for seniors who can perform everyday tasks and activities, such as cleaning, cooking their meals, eating, etc.

On the other hand, assisted living for seniors are designed for seniors that require help and support to carry out daily task. NOTE: Most Independent living homes grants seniors’ access to assistance and nursing care, should the need arise.

CONCLUSION

It is estimated that South Africa has over 2,000 homes for senior citizens. With presence in every province in the country.

These homes have become the best places for seniors to retire. They offer several features and facilities that are not in conventional homes or estates. These features and facilities are making life more comfortable, healthier, and easier for seniors. Thereby improving the overall lifestyle of seniors.

Retire the way you desire.