‘Right-Sizing’ The New Trend For Baby Boomers

The latest stage of Elements Retirement Living's $60 million Elements village has literally ticked all of the boxes for baby boomers.

That was the claim made by Elements Retirement Living Managing Director Chiou See Anderson, who said their development in Springwood, south of Brisbane, was directed by a survey which revealed most baby boomers looking to downsize in retirement want a single level home with a guest bedroom, private courtyard and good security.

The latest construction stage of the Elements Village involves 16 new three-bedroom and four two-bedroom homes to be completed by November.

Ms Anderson said retirees aged between 53 and 71 were leading a trend to ‘right size’ their home without sacrificing quality of life.

“The survey of 750 people shows they want to enjoy a beautiful, comfortable home with all the mod cons but also expect to be able to just lock the door and hit the road.

“The home design has been steered by the very specific needs of our residents,” she said.

“Every consideration has been given to modern retirees’ busy lives, accessibility and comfort.

“For example, we’ve used bamboo floors in the living and dining areas – they are easy to clean but they also have some ‘give’ which means they are more forgiving on backs, knees and hips.

“Larger-than-average showers with an integrated bench seat and no step or door make it easier and safer for people who may develop mobility issues in the future.

“There is also plenty of storage, so residents can hang on to a lifetime of possessions they have an emotional connection with.

“Downsizing shouldn’t mean giving up things you love.”

The homes were designed to be light and spacious with luxurious fittings, airy living areas and attractive native landscaping sympathetic to Elements’ bushland setting.

Connectivity was another key feature of Elements, boasting its own private fibre optic network in partnership with an Australian owned telco company.

“Almost all our residents are technologically savvy and they happily go online to research information, pay bills, book trips, shop or keep up with friends and relatives,” Ms Anderson said.

“Having our own fibre optic network means our residents have access to the fastest possible upload and download speeds.”

Residents can also enjoy the recently built Club Elements, a stunning clubhouse designed for socialising with fellow residents, reading a book in the cosy library, or joining in regular activities.

A wellness retreat, gym and pool provide opportunities to stay fit and active, and an authentic Zen Garden gives residents a tranquil retreat to stroll or meditate. For those who are interested in woodwork or metalwork, there is a well-equipped work shed at the village.