As we age, our needs and preferences change. Choosing the right place to live is an important step in planning for the future. Understanding the difference between Retirement Living and Residential Care helps older people and their families make confident, informed decisions.
Retirement Living
Retirement Living is designed for independent older people who want to downsize and enjoy a vibrant community environment. When you move into a Retirement Living community, you maintain your independence while reducing your home and garden maintenance.
Retirement Living communities offer a wide range of options to suit individual preferences. Southern Cross Care offers everything from modern apartments in Myrtle Bank, to affordable units in ideal locations across Adelaide. We also have countryside villas in Mount Barker and coastal homes in the Fleurieu and Mornington Peninsulas.
All Retirement Living is about giving you the environment you need for independent living. Retirement villages range considerably in price, location and facilities, so there is something for everyone.
Residents spend their time enjoying shared facilities such as community centres with libraries, cafes and gyms. Many villages also have community gardens and regular social events. Meanwhile, the option to relax in your private home remains. If you ever require extra help around the house, you may also be able to access our Home Care or Health & Fitness services.
Learn more about Retirement Living here.
Residential Care
Residential Care suits older people who require higher levels of personal care and support. Southern Cross Care's Residential Care homes are vibrant places to live. Our compassionate staff provide person-centred care tailored to your specific needs, and help is always at hand.
People may also call residential care homes either aged care homes or nursing homes.
People living in Residential Care receive 24-hour assistance with daily tasks, personal support, and clinical care. The home is a safe and welcoming environment, including for those living with dementia.
Features of our Residential Care homes include cafes, gyms, libraries, chapels, and landscaped gardens. These homes embrace a healthy ageing philosophy where quality of life is the highest priority.
The Australian Government may pay some of the cost of Residential Care if you need it, but the Government will not pay for any Retirement Living costs.
Generally, you need an aged care assessment before moving into a Residential Care home to receive care and services.
Learn more about Residential Care here.
Choosing the right path
The core difference between these options comes down to the level of day-to-day assistance you need. Retirement Living focuses on independent lifestyle and community connection, whereas Residential Care offers structured daily personal care and access to registered health professionals for ongoing clinical support. Both options focus on helping members of our community to be Better for life.
If you would like to explore Retirement Living options or Residential Care homes across South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Victoria, the Southern Cross Care team is here to help you find the right fit for your journey.
Explore the website for information about the services you are looking for, or call us on 1800 852 772.
