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Retirement (and the lead up to it) is a milestone life event. It's a time to celebrate freedom, new beginnings, and the chance to design your ideal next chapter. But for many, a nagging question arises: to retirement village or not? If you want to prioritise safety and security, enhance your independence for longer, embrace low-maintenance living and experience a lifestyle enriched by luxury facilities and social connections, then choosing a retirement village could be the right next step in your life journey.

Downsizing to a retirement village like Applewood offers freedom, lower stress, and more time to enjoy life. It means less maintenance, modern living, enhanced security, and vibrant community connections. See the 22 benefits to downsizing your home but upgrading your lifestyle.

Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their home and community. This becomes even more important as you approach retirement and seek the freedom to lock up and leave with total peace of mind, knowing your home and wellbeing are protected. At Applewood, we take safety seriously, offering security and support systems that set a new standard for independent retirement living. See how we provide the assurance and protection you deserve.

Imagine opening the door to a new chapter of life – one with less clutter, more freedom, and a vibrant community waiting to welcome you. Downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space; it’s about creating a lifestyle that allows you to focus on what truly matters. While the idea of sorting through years of belongings might seem overwhelming, the right approach can turn this process into an exciting opportunity for a fresh start.

If you’re in the process of exploring your over 50s community living options as you prepare to downsize your home in 2025, we’ve created a comprehensive checklist of 65 crucial questions and considerations you need to think about along the way.

Wondering where to start when it comes to finding the right retirement village for you? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover our top tips for what to look for, what to do and what questions to ask as you explore your options.

Retirement is the beginning of a new chapter – a time to relax, explore new hobbies, and truly enjoy the fruits of your labour. Moving into a retirement village can be a wonderful way to embrace this stage of life, offering a community of like-minded individuals, a variety of activities, and the support you need to live life to the fullest. Applewood Retirement Village helps you understand ways to enrich your lifestyle.

When it’s time to start planning your retirement and pre-retirement years, many people find themselves at a crossroads, seeking a lifestyle that prioritises convenience, adventure, and a balanced approach to everyday living. If you’re seeking a life defined by freedom and enrichment, then a retirement village could be the perfect move for you.

As we gracefully glide into our golden years, it's essential to prioritise our health and wellness. While physical activity might conjure images of intense workouts and competitive sports, staying active as a senior doesn't have to be daunting. In fact, there's a plethora of sports and activities perfectly suited for over 50's, offering not just physical benefits, but also mental and social enrichment.

Its always best to speak to those who have done before you, and our residents at Applewood have learnt from their experience of moving into retirement living and want to share their experiences.

The Role of Family in the Transition to Retirement Living. Moving to a retirement village signifies an exciting (and potentially daunting) new chapter in life, and so the support of family during this time is instrumental. If you have parents or family members who are considering their retirement living options, here are our insights on the important role that family plays during this transition, and some tips for how you can support your loved ones throughout the process.

Discover the charm of living within Manningham City Council this winter. There is an array of events from cultural celebrations to art shows, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant corner of Melbourne.

At Applewood, we want our residents to enjoy a fulfilling retirement lifestyle, enriched by cutting-edge amenities.  Our range of facilities and services makes it possible for residents to live life as they please – whether that’s taking it easy, keeping busy, or enjoying a healthy balance of both. With many facilities on your doorstep, from a community centre, pool and spa. A fully equipped gymnasium, lush manicured gardens,onsite hair and beauty salon and even your own restaurant. At Applewood, every day brings new opportunities to live life to the fullest, surrounded by a supportive community and an array of amenities designed to enhance well being and enjoyment.

There are some common thoughts and emotions shared between our residents that encouraged them to embrace retirement village living at Applewood. If you can relate to any, or all of the following, you might be ready for a lifestyle change, too.

Many of our residents find joy in the tranquillity of our village’s lush landscapes. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you surround yourself with nature at Rivervue.

The decision to downsize to a retirement village is a big one, and it’s often accompanied by a variety of questions or concerns. To assist you in making an informed decision that aligns with your needs, we've addressed some common apprehensions associated with retirement living.

The decision to downsize and transition into a retirement village is a personal one, and each of our residents brings with them a unique narrative. Yet, a prevailing sentiment echoed by many Applewood residents is that they wish they had made the move sooner.

In an era where homebuyers are looking for more than just four walls, retirement villages have emerged as pioneers of innovative design and community-centric features.

Are you considering the transition to retirement living but feeling overwhelmed by the process? At Applewood, we understand that making this significant decision can be both exciting and daunting. That's why we're committed to making the entire journey as smooth as possible.

Whether you’re looking to travel more, prioritise your health and wellbeing, or embrace a new passion, downsizing to a retirement village could be the solution you need to achieve your goals in 2024 and beyond.

Applewood residents Ken and Jenny moved from their apartment in Melbourne's Brunswick East and chose Applewood Retirement Village for its Doncaster location.

As the summer sun begins to cast its warm glow, Applewood comes alive with the spirit of the season. From exciting events and activities, to the freedom to lock up and leave for a festive getaway, our village provides a vibrant haven where residents can embrace the joys of summer and Christmas on their own terms.

At Applewood, we believe that moving to a retirement village is the key to unlocking a fulfilling and joyous chapter in our extended lives. Retirement villages offer a roadmap for navigating this journey, providing an environment where individuals can thrive socially, emotionally, and physically.

There are a number of things you can do to stay independent for longer as you age. Let’s explore some lifestyle choices that can help you empower your retirement years with freedom, fulfillment and autonomy.

Let’s explore some of the ways you can help your parents transition to retirement village life smoothly and happily.

The concept of life's third act is reimagining the conventional norms of retirement and ushering in an era of exploration and reinvention for older adults.

Retirement is the exciting chapter in life when you can enjoy the fruits of your labour and dedicate more time to embracing new hobbies, adventures, and experiences. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the ways you can stay busy (but not too busy) in retirement.

When deciding what retirement living option is right for you, there’s a range of things to contemplate. To help you navigate this process, we’ve outlined some of the biggest considerations as you explore the available properties at Applewood.

Create cherished memories with your grandchildren these school holidays with family-friendly activities around the City of Manningham.

The first half of life is about acquiring and building, while the second half is about letting go and finding liberation. So, what are you letting go of in your retirement years?

Keep your mind, body and soul nourished all winter long, with our helpful, healthful tips.

Discover the charm of living within Manningham City Council this winter. From cultural celebrations to art events, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant corner of Melbourne.

Featuring a masterful plot, this book is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a twisty thriller with a satisfactory ending.

Here are some benefits to step out of your comfort zone and embrace social interactions this winter season.

From all the benefits that come with living in a low-maintenance, purpose-built and functional home within a secure and supportive community, to having luxurious facilities on your doorstep, there are many reasons Aussie seniors are embracing community life.

Sometimes it can be difficult and daunting to form new friendships later in life, but living in an inclusive community setting, like Applewood, can make it easier to meet new people and establish meaningful connections.

At Applewood, we’re passionate about helping our residents live happier, healthier lives for longer by creating supportive communities where like-minded over 55s can connect, stay active and reduce everyday stressors in their secure, low-maintenance home.

Selling your current home is a big and important step in your retirement living journey. To simplify this process, we’ve outlined what you’ll need to do to get your home ready for sale.

While retirement villages may not be the right move for everyone, we’re strong believers that communities where likeminded individuals can live independently, surrounded by active and social opportunities, present a whole myriad of health and lifestyle benefits.

Helping our residents stay connected with those they love is a top priority for us at Applewood, and that’s why we’re a family- and pet-friendly place to call home.

The month of romance is here, and what better way to spread the love than share the many things we think you’ll adore when you call Applewood home.

If you’re weighing up your options as you approach retirement, here are 7 signs you’re ready to move to a retirement village.

Whether you’d like to improve your health, set off on bigger holidays or downsize and declutter in 2023, we want to help you succeed in ticking off your New Year’s resolutions. Here’s how you can achieve them by making the move to Applewood.

Here are some of the ways you can expect to live healthier for longer when you call Applewood home.

At Applewood, you can celebrate the party season exactly how you choose to, whether that involves getting into the festive spirit, or simply relaxing throughout the summer.

Talking to family about your decision to downsize and move to a retirement village can seem a little daunting, but involving them in the process can help you to feel supported as you embrace your next steps.

From having lifestyle facilities on your doorstep, to taking part in fun-filled community events and activities, here are 3 ways you’ll stay socially connected when you call our village home.

So, you’ve made the decision to move to a retirement village – congratulations! But where do you start when it comes to deciding what goes with you and how you get rid of all the things you can’t take?

Location plays a big part in enhancing your retirement experience. Living close to essential amenity, transport networks, retail hubs and entertainment destinations allows you to live a connected lifestyle that is filled with opportunities.

If you find yourself wondering if it’s the right time to start your journey to retirement living, here are some of the biggest benefits of moving to Applewood sooner rather than later.

Here are some of the important steps you can expect to encounter before moving to a retirement village.

To help you feel informed as you explore your retirement living options, we’ve listed 4 things to consider before moving into a retirement village.

Here are some tips to help you downsize and declutter your old home and start planning for life in your new one.

It’s easy to see the obvious costs of moving – hire a skip for rubbish, buy some boxes, hire the removalist – but there are many more costs that sit below the visible surface.

One of the biggest motivators to move to a retirement village is the range of lifestyle enhancements and benefits you’ll experience.

We’re committed to providing security and support systems that are unparalleled for an independent retirement living community.

Foodbank Victoria Ambassador, Chrissie Swan visited Applewood to thank our residents for the tonnes of food collected for those in need.