Living well and being well go hand-in-hand
When it comes to well-being, many factors contribute to our overall sense of happiness and fulfilment in life. But what about lifestyle villages? What role can they play in the well-being of seniors?
The residents of Fairview Lifestyle Village discuss their well-being and how living in a lifestyle village has enriched it. By sharing their experiences, we hope you will gain a better understanding of what it’s like to belong to a community that promotes mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Socialising and solitude – the perfect blend
In our villages, there is a perfect balance between socialising and solitude. Whether you seek to immerse yourself in the activities of the community or retreat to your own personal oasis, it’s your choice.
“You can be as isolated or involved as you want. There are like-minded people here. If you want company, it’s there. You can meet for coffee and it’s wonderful.”
– Peggy
“There’s so much you can do in our village. A lot of people arrange groups for things like bowling, croquet, cards, rummikub, art, and sewing. Plus, there’s a keep-fit class. I go to the gym every morning.”
– Beth – 95 year old resident
Being autonomous – having a voice
As a resident-led village, everyone has a say in what happens, creating a true sense of community and belonging that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
“The resident’s committee oversees the activities. I think we are unique in that way. Other villages employ staff who organise everything, which is more restrictive. But here, we make our own days, so there’s a sense of purpose and pride in the fact that it’s ours.
– Harry
Positive energy – ‘it just feels right’
It takes more than lovely amenities to make a place feel like home. Our villages have that special something that draws people in. So many of our residents said they immediately knew this was the right village for them. There’s an energy pull, an inexplicable vibe that just feels right. It’s that feeling you get when you know you’re in a place where you truly belong.
“This is a happy village and it’s a homely village. It’s not clinical, it’s a community.”
– Peggy
“I call it my Fairview Family”
– Inez
“This village is quite unique. We explored other villages but didn’t get the vibe. They weren’t friendly atmospheres. It felt as if you were living in a corridor.”
– Charlie
There’s a sense of relief that you get from living here
On-site Nurses
A sense of comfort and peace of mind can come from knowing that help is readily available. Nurses are on site 24/7, so if assistance is needed just call them or pop on down to see them.
“The nurses here are good. You see, because of my surgery, this shin is very susceptible to getting knocks and it sometimes breaks the skin, so I’m quite often down there getting a dressing done to it.”
– Beth
Gated security
Many residents find it reassuring that the gates are locked at night. It is comforting to know that you can go to bed at night without having to worry about your safety.
Maintenance team
Maintenance issues around their homes were a big worry for many residents before they moved into our village. Here, whenever something breaks, you can call and someone will fix it.
“To be able to say to someone – fix this up for me, that’s such a relief, and it frees you up.”
– Inez
Fixed fees for life
Fixed fees are also a big relief for residents, especially since living costs keep going up. Fairview Village fixes fees, but not all villages do.
“When I calculated the weekly fees against the rates, insurance, the water… It was pretty much the same and it will get better because our monthly fee is fixed, but all those other things will keep going up.”
– Peggy
“When you factor in membership fees like the gym, maintenance costs, tree trimming, gardening, etc, and the fact you get free access to all the amenities right outside your door, you’re actually better off.”
– Harry
Beautiful homes you can personalise
Stunning grounds & resort-like amenities
Residents love the spaciousness, privacy, lush, meticulously landscaped gardens and established trees. Plus, with resort-like amenities at your doorstep, every day feels like a staycation.
“I tell you what this place is like, it’s like a home – it’s a very special village. It’s got that extra dimension. It’s not great big tall buildings and rows of apartments which I would find claustrophobic. And the garden is beautiful and we can walk around the garden, and I take my ‘Porsche’ (mobility scooter) right around. ”
– Beth
“The pool is a great draw for the kids. We take the grandchildren into the pool – they love it.”
– Inez
This is your home, and we want you to feel at home
The villas and apartments are beautifully renovated, and you can make them your own. You can choose your carpet, drapes, and flooring, and add small details that are important to you. Having the freedom to do that is important. This is your home and we want you to feel at home.
Yes, you can have your own garden
If you have a green thumb and love spending time in the garden, then you’ll love living here. One of the many perks of this community is that residents have the option to maintain their own garden. If you’re not up for the task, don’t worry! You can have a low-maintenance garden installed for you. When you move in, you will meet the Head Gardener and discuss what kind of plants you would like in your garden. You can even bring your favourite plants with you.
“I had never had a flower garden before, but I do now and I love it. Because our section was so large, I only had landscaping plants. I have really enjoyed putting my flower garden in. When I wake up in the morning, I look out at my flowers and say “Hello girls“.
– Peggy
There are many reasons that make Fairview Village a truly special place. Come visit us and get a feel for yourself. You’ll be shown around by our residents themselves, so you can learn first-hand what makes a village a home.
Quotes and insights shared above were obtained from interviews conducted with residents of Premier Lifestyle Villages for a study titled – ‘An exploration of residents’ perspectives of well-being in relation to retirement village living’. Names have been changed to protect the identity of the participants.
