Seniors heading for the cities

The concept of senior living has evolved over the years, with an increasing number of seniors opting for urban living instead of traditional countryside or seaside retirement. 

This shift poses a thought-provoking question: Are South Africa’s major cities prepared? This article delves into the growing trend of urban senior living, explores the challenges and what is being done to adequately prepare for this demographic change.

Why the trend?

There has been a noticeable shift in the preferences of seniors when it comes to retirement. Many are choosing to forgo the tranquillity of rural or coastal areas in favour of vibrant urban environments. This change is driven by various factors including the fact that the elderly of today are often still in good health and enjoy active and independent lives, thanks to advancements in modern medicine. Some choose to work beyond the traditional retirement age on a part-time or flexible basis and are looking for accommodation that aligns with their lifestyle.

Benefits of staying close to the city

Urban areas offer access to a lot more amenities including cultural events, dining options, entertainment venues, and healthcare facilities. Seniors are drawn to the convenience and accessibility of these offerings as well as the ample opportunities for social interaction and engagement in such an environment. Other draw cards include quality healthcare facilities and access to transportation networks.

According to Evergreen Property Investments, the conventional concept of old age homes is now outdated, and property developers are having to re-evaluate their strategies in order to accommodate the preferences and requirements of the modern retiree.

Solutions are required for an increasingly older population

According to Statistics SA, in 2022 the estimated population of South Africa included more than five million people aged 60 or older. This represents a 9.2% share of the overall South African population. In addition, the number of older people increased from 2.8 million in 1996 to 4.1 million in 2011 and is expected to increase to 7 million by 2030. According to the WHO World Report on Ageing and Health, the number of older adults in South Africa will increase to 15.4% of the population by 2050.

Traditionally, in South Africa, the options available for retirement living include retirement villages, assisted living, and frail care facilities. In recent times, developers have recognised the change in the market and for this reason are starting to integrate retirement villages into larger, residential estates, so that residents can still be part of a larger social community.

According to Evergreen Property Investments, current statistics reveal a noteworthy trend in South Africa where multigenerational living constitutes a substantial 32.2% of the property market. 

The company highlights: ‘Fortunately, there are variations of the multi-generational model within the Evergreen Lifestyle village community. While there are villages for those who prefer to live alongside others of similar age and interests, Evergreen is also building retirement villages in existing residential estates for those who prefer to live amongst people of all ages – including in Val de Vie in Paarl, Lake Michelle in Noordhoek, Sitari near Somerset West and Zimbali Lakes in KwaZuluNatal.’

Looking forward

As urban senior living becomes more prevalent, it is imperative that cities continue to invest in infrastructure, healthcare services, and social engagement initiatives to ensure that seniors enjoy a fulfilling and enriched quality of life in their urban surroundings. With careful planning and thoughtful implementation, cities should cope with the increasing influx of seniors, creating a harmonious and age-friendly urban landscape for all.