Retirement Living Options Explained

In this guide, we’ll explore the main types of senior living available in the UK, from independent retirement communities to full-time care. We’ll highlight who each is suited to and what to expect.   

We'll also explore how to choose the right setting, and why the right decision is about more than just needs: namely, how to continue to live richly and meaningfully. 

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• Things to consider when choosing the right retirement living option for you 
• Retirement villages and communities 
• Assisted living 
• Sheltered housing 
• Residential care homes 
• Nursing homes

Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Retirement Living Option for You

Choosing what your retirement will look like is a process deserving of care and attention. You need to imagine the future lifestyle you want and find the setting that enables it.  

Here are a few key considerations to guide your decision:

• Accessibility: are there stairs? Is there lift access? Are there grab rails or step-free bathrooms, if needed?
• Care needs: how much support do you require day to day, both now and into the future?
• Maintenance: who will handle repairs, gardening, cleaning and other jobs?
• Social opportunities: is there a community? Are there activities, clubs, and shared spaces?
• Location: do you want to stay close to family? Do you want to be in a cultural hub or somewhere quieter?
• Future flexibility: can the environment adapt to your changing needs over time?
• Aesthetic and atmosphere: does the setting reflect your personal standards and preferences?  

The most rewarding retirement settings enrich daily life as well as ensuring your needs are met. We recommend visiting in person, speaking to residents, and trusting your instinct about whether you could truly feel at home.

Retirement Villages and Communities

Retirement villages offer independent living with additional support, making them one of the most popular options for individuals entering retirement in good health. These purpose-built communities are usually made up of self-contained living units - apartments, cottages or similar - set in landscaped grounds and with access to facilities on site. 

This setting allows for residents to have their own front doors, kitchens, and routines while benefiting from shared dining areas, libraries, cinemas, gardens, concierge services, and wellness programmes. Some communities also offer care support if or when required. 

The balance of independence and support on offer makes retirement villages ideal for those who want to enjoy later life safe in the knowledge that maintenance, upkeep, and assistance are handled by experienced staff, freeing them up to focus on the things they enjoy. They are particularly well suited to those who are used to having their own space and living life on their own terms, but who are now looking for community, culture, and convenience - with no compromise on quality. 

Auriens Chelsea is a prime example of this approach, offering beautifully designed apartments alongside five-star amenities such as a spa, cinema, library, restaurant, and 24-hour concierge. Residences are available to rent or purchase, with one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and two-bedroom-plus options. Explore how it works, or if you’re curious, arrange a visit to see for yourself!

Assisted Living

Assisted living is intended for individuals who value their independence but require help with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, medication, or meal preparation. These residences can resemble retirement communities in design, but include more hands-on support by default. 

Staff are available around the clock, with emergency assistance systems in place to give peace of mind. Communal areas encourage socialising, while private apartments provide personal space. 

Assisted living can be a good choice for individuals whose physical needs have increased, but who wish to remain independent. It provides reassurance while facilitating a familiar lifestyle, and the best settings offer beautiful environments that are both practical and uplifting. 

Read our guide to assisted living to find out more.

Sheltered Housing

Sheltered housing is a popular choice for individuals who are largely self-sufficient but would feel safer with some light-touch support. These usually consist of small, private flats in a block with a warden or manager available during the day. 

There’s usually an emergency call system, communal lounge, and shared laundry facilities. Unlike retirement villages, onsite amenities are more limited, and care is not generally provided. 

Sheltered housing offers a sense of security and community, but is generally suited to those not needing regular personal care. It can be a good interim step before moving into a more supported environment, particularly for those looking to downsize while retaining a strong sense of independence.  

Read our guide to sheltered housing to find out more.

Residential Care Homes

Residential care homes provide round-the-clock support with personal care and daily living. Residents usually have their own rooms and access to communal areas like lounges and gardens. Meals, housekeeping, and personal care are included as standard. 

These settings are appropriate for individuals who need regular help but do not require medical care from on-site nurses. They also suit those who would benefit from living in a more structured, social setting where activities are available and everyday tasks are managed by trained staff. 

Residential care homes can offer significant peace of mind for families, especially when their loved ones have begun to struggle with managing on their own at home.

Nursing Homes 

Nursing homes offer the highest level of care outside a hospital setting. In addition to help with daily tasks, they provide 24-hour medical care from registered nurses. These homes are suitable for those with complex or ongoing health conditions. 

Rooms may be private or shared, and facilities include nursing stations, medication management, and often physiotherapy or specialist dementia care. They are typically more clinical in nature than residential homes, but many still strive to create a welcoming, home-like environment. 

When choosing a nursing home, it’s vital to consider both physical and emotional wellbeing. The best homes will combine specialist care with warmth, comfort, and dignity.

Choose Auriens for Your Retirement 

If you're looking for a retirement living option that combines style, independence, and peace of mind, Auriens Chelsea offers a gold-standard experience. 

Our residents enjoy beautiful private apartments in one of London’s most desirable locations, along with wellness services, curated events, and integrated day-to-day support. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, Auriens is designed for those used to the best who want to keep living life on their own terms. 

But what truly sets Auriens apart is its atmosphere. There is a sense of shared experience, of lives well lived and thoughtfully continued. Our residents are artists, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, academics, and adventurers. Many are still travelling the world, mentoring the next generation, or enjoying the freedom to focus on what matters to them. 

This is not retirement as you may have imagined it. This is retirement reimagined: full of opportunity, ease, and luxury. Explore our residences today, or get in touch to discover how we can help you navigate your next chapter with elegance and ease.