Free to Thrive: The Importance of Autonomy in Well-being at Fairview Lifestyle Village
When choosing a retirement village, it’s easy to get swept up in aesthetics. Beautiful landscapes, modern amenities, and cosy living spaces are undeniably important. But what about the unseen, yet equally crucial, aspects like the village’s culture?
Fairview Lifestyle Village fosters a sense of community and autonomy that’s essential for a fulfilling retirement. We explore how autonomy plays a pivotal role in enhancing well-being and how living here helps you live a little freer.
Understanding Autonomy
Being autonomous means being in control of our lives. It’s the freedom to choose our own path and make our own decisions. Maintaining autonomy is crucial for retirees – it affects their mental health, well-being, and even their physical health. Studies have shown that a sense of autonomy is strongly associated with longevity and the prevention of depression and cognitive decline among the elderly.
Source: National Library of Medicine, Maintaining the dignity and autonomy of older people in the healthcare setting, NIH
The Role of Autonomy in Well-being
Mental Health Benefits
Autonomy has a huge impact on mental health. Having control over one’s life reduces stress and anxiety. This is particularly important for retirees who may face various life changes. By allowing residents to make their own choices, Fairview Lifestyle Village promotes a sense of security.
Source: National Library of Medicine, and Decreased Autonomy In Community-Dwelling Older Adults NIH
Physical Health Benefits
Autonomy isn’t just good for your mental health. Participating in community activities and making decisions encourages physical activity and social interaction, both key to staying healthy. At Fairview, residents are encouraged to lead activities, arrange social events, and organise outings, promoting an active lifestyle.
Social Connectedness
Autonomy fosters social connectedness. Having a say in what happens in their community gives residents a purpose and a sense of belonging. This connectedness is a key factor in overall happiness and well-being. Fairview Lifestyle Village promotes this by ensuring residents are at the heart of all decisions made within the community.
“There is an art group which I enjoy. There’s also a gardening group, and one afternoon we all went to the domain to see the winter garden in the village bus.”
How Fairview Lifestyle Village Supports Autonomy
Resident-led Activities
Unlike other villages where management controls activities, here we encourage residents to take charge. Whether it is running the bar or organising social events, our residents choose how things are done. It’s about living life on their terms.
“I think ours might be rare – other villages employ staff and the staff organise everything -that is more restricting and less personal. But in ours, we make our own days up – it provides a sense of purpose, a bit of pride that it’s your area that you look after. “
“I’m on the bus driving list. I’ve become a bus driver now. I’ve done my licence. They’re off all the time. They’re always going off somewhere.”
Resident Committee
Fairview Lifestyle Village has a firmly established resident committee that oversees activities and ensures residents’ voices are heard. This committee meets regularly to discuss village matters, address any issues, and plan for the future. Being part of this committee gives residents a platform to express their ideas and concerns, fostering a genuine sense of ownership.
“I’ve just been asked to join the resident committee. Once a month we have a meeting and discuss different things that are going on, any issues”.
“You have a voice. If anyone has a problem with anything you can take it to the committee. I’m on the committee. Once a year we update everyone with what is going on and the plans for the coming year. “
Flexible Living
Having the freedom to personalise your space and make decisions about your home environment is crucial to feeling at home. This flexibility enhances their sense of autonomy and satisfaction with their living conditions.
“Apartments are beautifully renovated, and you can make them your own. Having the freedom to do that is important.
The Unseen Benefits of a Culture of Autonomy
Enhanced Quality of Life
Fairview’s culture of autonomy contributes to an enhanced quality of life. Residents feel valued, respected, and empowered, which contributes significantly to their overall well-being. This culture is deeply ingrained in our village’s management and operations.
Reduced Feeling of Isolation
A sense of autonomy can also help reduce feelings of isolation. As a community, Fairview fosters a sense of belonging by encouraging residents to be involved in community activities and decision-making. This sense of community helps combat loneliness, which is a common issue among retirees.
Increased Life Satisfaction
When residents have control over their lives and feel a part of a vibrant community, their life satisfaction increases. They wake up each day with a sense of purpose and look forward to participating in activities that they enjoy. This positive outlook on life is a direct result of the autonomy they experience at Fairview.
“This is a happy village and it’s a homely village. It’s not clinical, it’s a home. Scott (owner) always said that – this is your home, and he feels that deeply”.
Conclusion
The decision to move to a retirement village involves more than just evaluating its physical attributes. The unseen aspects, like autonomy and community, contribute significantly to residents’ well-being.
Our culture of autonomy fosters a sense of community and belonging that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. Our residents lead activities, participate in decision-making, and enjoy a supportive environment that values their input.
If you’re a retiree looking for a place where you can enjoy a fulfilling and autonomous lifestyle, consider Fairview Lifestyle Village. Join us and experience the difference that autonomy can make in your well-being. Explore more about our community and discover how you can live life a little freer at Fairview.
