At what age am I eligible for a Retirement Village?
Although you can choose to retire at any age you want, the official retirement age in New Zealand is 65. This is when you become eligible to receive NZ Super (your pension) and typically gain access to their KiwiSaver. The age that you need to be to enter a Retirement...
I feel invisible now I'm older. What can be done?
Knowledge is power. Recharge your power bank, be informed and take control of your situation. We have a number of videos on our site about ageism that you might find encouraging. Alternatively, call the friendly team at Eldernet on 0800 162 706 or team@eldernet.co.nz.
Are retirement villages and rest homes the same?
Drawing a distinction between accommodation and care is a way to begin to understand the differences between retirement villages, rest homes and other options. Once there were rest homes and then along came lifestyle and retirement villages. Rest homes were tasked with caring for the frail and chronically ill, and...
What is a dual use room or swing bed?
Dual use (or “swing”) beds are rooms that can support more than one level of care - typically rest home or hospital care - to be provided in the same room, which means the resident doesn't need to change rooms. This can be especially reassuring if you’re worried about the...
What is a RAD?
RAD is short for Refundable Accommodation Deposit , and it is an alternative payment option offered by some care facilities in New Zealand. Instead of paying ongoing premium accommodation charges, you can choose to make a single up-front lump-sum payment. The key point is that this amount is fully refunded...
Introduction to definitions, key terms and concepts
Every sector, industry, organisation or group seems to have its own jargon and while it operates as a short cut for those ‘in the know’ its hard for others to understand. Eldernet help to demystify the language and concepts commonly referred to in New Zealand so you can quickly ‘come...
Will I have to pay if I move within a village?
Every time you relocate within a village - whether it's to a different unit or to receive care - there are some costs to be aware of. Here's how they typically work: If you're shifting between independent living options (for example, downsizing to a smaller unit), a transfer fee is...
What are the pros and cons of living in a village?
Approximately 14% of the people aged 75 and older choose to live in a village – and that number is set to increase as our population continues to age. It is estimated that 26,000 retirement village units will need to be built by 2033 just to keep up with current...
What kind of homes are in a retirement village?
When you're exploring retirement villages in New Zealand, you'll find a wide range of accommodation options. Here's a simple breakdown of the most common choices and what they offer. Villas are standalone homes, usually with one to three bedrooms (sometimes more). They often come with their own garden or outdoor...
What services and facilities do retirement villages offer?
Villages vary greatly – you’ll notice different-sized villages, from very few units to some with hundreds; different types of units within the same complex; newer villages and older villages. You will discover the community facilities can vary, with some villages offering a wide range such as a swimming pool, bowling...
Mythbusting - Retirement Villages are expensive
Are Retirement Villages expensive? In short, the answer is ‘not always.’ There can be some very affordable homes within Retirement Villages, however, not all are priced at the affordable end of the market either. Just like real estate on the open market, Retirement Villages offer a range of options –...
Should I leave an inheritance to my children?
There is no right or wrong way to spend your money as you get older – after all, you’re the one who earned it. For some, older age is an opportunity to cash in their chips and do everything they’ve ever wanted, using all the money they’ve saved in the...
I’m thinking of volunteering. What are the benefits?
Not only does volunteering have a positive impact on the economy, but also the community and the volunteers themselves. The most common reasons people give for doing voluntary work are: being helpful to others, “paying back” to society, and having a sense of obligation to the future generations. It is...
Do I need a medical certificate to renew a driver’s licence?
To renew your licence past your 75th birthday you will need to visit your doctor to get a 'Medical certificate for driver licence'. Tell your doctor the certificate is for your driver licence. You will have to pay for the appointment yourself. During your appointment your doctor will discuss your...
What is the Retirement Villages Act?
All registered retirement villages in New Zealand are governed by the Retirement Villages Act 2003. The Retirement Villages Act and its regulations are designed to protect the interest of residents, and sets out basic standards for operating a village. These standards include things like: what information operators must disclose to...
What is the role of a retirement village manager?
Retirement Village Manager The retirement village manager is the legal representative of the owner or operator of a village. In practical terms, they're the one keeping things running smoothly day-to-day. Their responsibilities can include hiring staff, overseeing the maintenance of buildings and facilities, coordinating village activities, and making sure residents...
What is the Total Mobility Scheme?
The Total Mobility Scheme assists people with eligible mobility issues around New Zealand to get access to subsidised door-to-door transport. It's aimed at people with temporary or long-term disabilities who cannot use public transport, and therefore need an alternative mode of transport to live their lives normally and stay connected...
Need information about moving into a rest home?
You will find all the information you need here on the Eldernet site including, the process for accessing this service and a listing for every rest home or care home in the country. Eldernet Residential Care gives older people and those supporting them free, unbiased, and comprehensive information about moving...
Find information about services to help stay at home
Making Life Easier at Home is New Zealand’s most comprehensive online directory allowing people and their loved ones to find local care and support options, community and advocacy groups, and service providers all in one place. It’s all about supporting older people to live the lives they want! Many older...
I'm not happy. Can I transfer to a different rest home?
Remember, a care home (rest home) is your home: just like any home you live in, you can choose to move if you wish. To start the process of moving, contact your local Needs Assessment Coordination Service (NASC) to let them know you want to transfer. They may do another...
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