Don’t believe the hype

Beyond the Headlines: The Real Story Behind Retirement Living 

If you’ve been following the headlines, you might have seen some unsettling ones but you don’t need to believe the hype: 

“Costly charges of retirement living eat up equity”
“Families stuck with unsellable retirement flats”
“Downsizing trap leaves heirs frustrated” 

It’s enough to make anyone pause. But as with many things in life, there’s often a big gap between media hype and everyday reality. 

At Adlington Retirement Living, we’ve spoken to hundreds of homeowners and families who’ve made the move and what they’ll tell us is that the real value of retirement living isn’t always in the financial equation, it’s in the quality of life unlocked. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common concerns. 

Perception: “Aren’t the charges really high?” 

This is one of the biggest myths often fuelled by misleading comparisons. Yes, retirement communities come with a Service and Well-being Charge, and sometimes an exit fee, but that’s clearly outlined from the start. What’s often not compared fairly is what that pays for. Many of our homeowners come from larger, older homes where costs quietly add up: 

• Repairs and maintenance 

• Gardening and window cleaning 

• Rising energy bills 

• Security systems and alarm monitoring 

• Emergency callouts 

• Isolation that can lead to care or well-being needs 

• Loved ones that must give up their precious time to give support 

When you live in a purpose-built community like ours, those worries (and costs) disappear into one simplified, transparent structure, with no surprise bills. And for many homeowners, like Lesley, that gives them something priceless: peace of mind. 

Lesley, homeowner, enjoying the gardens at The Newells

“Some people said, ‘Financially, it doesn’t make sense, you’ll lose money.’ But I said, ‘It’s not about a financial investment. It’s a place where I know I’ll be comfortable and safe without worrying about maintenance, gardening or anything else. My friends and I all agree it was the right thing to do.” 

Perception: “Isn’t it hard to sell later and my children might get stuck with it?” 

This is a fear that’s often based on outdated perceptions of retirement properties that were built decades ago, with poor resale appeal and minimal demand. But things have changed. 

Today, retirement communities are in short supply and demand is growing fast. Plus, Adlington communities are modern, high-quality and in desirable locations, designed for independent living with built-in support that an ageing population needs. 

Our in-house Adlington Estates team is available to help homeowners and their families resell the apartment when the time comes, ensuring a smooth process. In fact, some of them tell us they’re relieved to know their parent’s apartment is in demand, professionally managed, and within a community that is expertly maintained. 

Adlington Estates Manager, Tim Crichton

So, what’s the real value, beyond the balance sheet? 

Peace of mind – Both for you, knowing support is available 24/7, and for your loved ones, who can finally step back from being the “emergency contact for everything.” 

Independence preserved – These are not care homes. Our communities are designed for those who want to live independently and without the physical and mental strain of a large house. 

Safety – No more worrying about stairs, power cuts, icy paths, or answering the door alone. Every apartment and shared space is built with security, accessibility and ease in mind. 

Community – One of the greatest dangers in later life is loneliness. Within our communities, homeowners find company when they want it, privacy when they don’t, and the ease of spontaneous connection. 

As homeowner Dr Trevor explained: 

“I am so pleased I moved here. I’ve got back to my normal self. I’m not so insular and enjoy meeting new people and talking to them, most often because they’re of a like mind. There’s a good sense of community here. I’ve made some good friends since I’ve moved. 

Dr Trevor, homeowner

Do the maths but don’t forget the meaning 

We absolutely encourage everyone to review the numbers, ask questions, and understand the terms and we’re here to help with that. But also ask yourself, what is the value of: 

• No more late-night worry calls? 

• Knowing there are trusted neighbours in the same building? 

• Smiling, laughing and belonging again? 

• Having more time and energy for life? 

Sometimes the real evaluation should be less in the money saved not moving, and more the stress relieved, the moments gained, the relationships restored.  And that’s not hype. That’s home. 

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For those who enjoy the peace of mind brought by well-planned finances this feature looks at retirement living charges and how they can simplify month expenses.

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