According to Russell Masters, Retirement Development Consultant for Schonenberg Retirement Village, the development, once completed, will consist of 190 units for approximately 300 people, providing much needed retirement accommodation in the Western Cape. "This village will afford retirement facilities for individuals in the market to purchase an exclusive property in which they intend spending their leisure years, forgoing existing waiting lists."
Masters explains that the first residents - after a much-anticipated year-long wait - have moved into their new homes and are very happy with the facilities. "To date, five homeowners have taken-up residence and the feedback has been very positive. Our goal is to create a modern village with top-class facilities, far removed from the stigma of an old-age home."
Masters has noted an increased demand for upmarket retirement accommodation as more and more people within the middle to higher-income sectors are entering the retirement market at an earlier age. This is echoed by Billy Rauch, CEO of the Cape Peninsula Organisation for the Aged (CPOA). "Many villages and complexes in our region have waiting lists of up to 30 years long. It is vital that people realise the severity of the problem. If an individual or couple only begin to seek retirement accommodation at the age of 50, they will find themselves at a loose end until they turn 60 or 65."
The first phase of the village - comprising 51 houses - has been completed and temporary facilities are in place for the new residents. "We decided to launch our temporary clubhouse and healthcare facilities in conjunction with the first phase occupation. This was done to enable the first residents to take full advantage of the range of services we offer at the village," says Masters. Work has also started on 20 apartments within the village - scheduled for occupation in June 2009.
Schonenberg Retirement Village's permanent healthcare centre will feature a number of assisted living units that receive professional supportive care for those who still live independently but require assistance. These 32m² - 43m² bed-sitter units comprise a kitchenette, living area, bedroom and en-suite bathroom.
The village is designed to complement the Schonenberg Estate development - which in size equates to a suburb - and presents a unique opportunity for families to live in close proximity within the same secure estate - a unique development trend for the region. "Families can live within walking distance of each other, separated only by werf walls, while still retaining a sense of independence," concludes Masters.
For more information contact 083 457 2007 / 021 852 0821 or visit www.schonenbergvillage.co.za.
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