Choosing the right retirement village is about more than just downsizing—it's about finding a community that matches your lifestyle, values, and future plans. A lifestyle-oriented retirement community offers more than a home; it provides a supportive environment where independence, social connection, and peace of mind come together.

At Evergreen Retirement Village, we understand that every retiree is different. Some are seeking tranquillity, others are looking for a social setting, and many want a blend of both. This guide will walk you through how to find the right retirement village that aligns with your vision for the next chapter of life.

Start with Lifestyle, Not Just Location

When considering retirement communities, many people start by looking at location—and rightly so. Being close to family, health services, or a familiar area can significantly impact your sense of comfort.

However, lifestyle is just as important. Ask yourself:

  • Do I want to be socially active, or do I value quiet and privacy?
  • Am I looking for a place with minimal responsibilities and maintenance?
  • Do I want access to shared spaces or events to meet others?

Evergreen Retirement Village is designed to support varied lifestyles. Whether you prefer your own space or enjoy meeting others at casual resident gatherings, you’ll find flexibility and respect for your preferences.

What Does Lifestyle-Oriented Actually Mean?

A lifestyle-oriented retirement village isn’t defined by expensive facilities or high-end perks—it’s defined by how well the village allows you to live the way you want. At Evergreen, this means:

  • Independent, low-maintenance homes that are easy to manage day-to-day.
  • Safe and secure surroundings that give residents confidence and peace of mind.
  • Shared spaces and organised events that foster social connection without pressure.
  • Professional management that supports residents and keeps the village running smoothly.

The goal is to ensure that your everyday life feels comfortable, easy, and meaningful—whether you spend it at home, out in the community, or enjoying the company of neighbours.

Visit in Person—Don’t Rely on Brochures

The best way to assess whether a retirement village suits your lifestyle is to visit in person. Brochures and websites are helpful, but a site visit allows you to:

  • Experience the layout and design of homes and communal areas.
  • Observe how residents interact and get a feel for the community dynamic.
  • Ask questions about contracts, support, and the management team.

At Evergreen, we welcome prospective residents to visit and explore at their own pace. You’ll meet the people who help run the village and get an authentic sense of what daily life looks like.

Understand the Contract and Ongoing Costs

Financial clarity is a vital part of choosing the right retirement village. Lifestyle-oriented communities should offer transparent pricing and clear information about:

  • Entry fees
  • Ongoing maintenance or service charges
  • Exit or departure fees

At Evergreen, all residents are provided with full documentation outlining costs before they commit. We also encourage prospective residents to seek independent legal advice to ensure complete confidence in their decision.

Think About Long-Term Suitability

Choosing a retirement community isn’t just about today—it’s about tomorrow, too. While Evergreen is not an aged care facility and does not provide high-level medical care, we do offer homes designed with accessibility and aging-in-place in mind.

Features like single-level layouts, emergency call systems, and low-maintenance gardens allow residents to stay comfortably and confidently in their homes for longer. As your lifestyle changes, your home at Evergreen is designed to adapt with you.

Ask About Support and Services

Even in lifestyle-focused retirement villages, some residents may need occasional support—whether it's help navigating local services, organising home maintenance, or joining village activities.

At Evergreen, our on-site management team is available during business hours to assist with village matters and provide general support to residents when needed. This creates a reassuring presence for both residents and their families.

Social Life: Optional, Never Forced

One of the biggest myths about retirement communities is that residents are expected to participate in a packed social calendar. At Evergreen, we believe that social connection should always be optional.

We offer a variety of low-pressure opportunities—such as morning teas, resident meetings, and seasonal events—for those who enjoy getting involved. But there’s never any pressure to attend, and everyone’s right to privacy is respected.

This balanced approach ensures residents can enjoy a personalised retirement experience based on their comfort and interests.

Look for a Sense of Community, Not Just Amenities

A lifestyle-oriented retirement village isn’t just defined by what it offers on paper. It’s about the feeling you get when you walk through the gates—the sense of safety, respect, and ease that comes from being among people who share your values.

At Evergreen, we foster a supportive, respectful community where residents are known by name and have a genuine say in how their village operates.

Our goal is to create an environment where you feel at home the moment you arrive—and every day after.

Finding the right lifestyle-oriented retirement village is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in later life. It’s about finding a place where you can be yourself, live independently, and feel part of a welcoming community.

Evergreen Retirement Village offers just that. With thoughtfully designed homes, a flexible approach to daily life, and a strong sense of resident care, we’re proud to be a trusted choice for retirement community living. To arrange a visit or explore our current availability, visit Evergreen Retirement Village.