Featuring facilities that make life easier for those over the age of 50, retirement communities have the potential to make the later years of your life comfier. Most come with facilities that you can access easily. However, before you sign up for one, it's important to decide whether it's conducive to your retirement needs.

Does your retirement community provide access to your favourite activities?

When you retire, having access to your favourite recreational activities makes life more enjoyable. Whether you love to play golf every Sunday or you envisage yourself swimming regularly, there's a facility out there that will suit you.

Most retirement villages will advertise the activities available onsite via their webpage. If you don't see what you love there, figure out if it's within easy reach. Should you find that your usual activities are nearby, ask the site manager whether they provide regular transport for you to use.

Consider any medical support you might need

Whether you have additional mobility needs or you have an ongoing condition that commands the support of medical staff, having ongoing support is essential. As everyone's medical needs differ, you might find that information relevant to your condition isn't available on the village's website. Because of this it's a good idea to email them and ask what support they can provide.

Enquire about additional living spaces

If you're pursuing retirement away from your family but you would like them to visit you, find out if family-friendly accommodation is available for such occasions. Additionally, you should quiz the manager about social spaces you can use when friends and relatives come to see you for the day. Making yourself accessible allows you to receive visitors in the same way as you do in your current home.

Find out if the monthly fees include maintenance

Every home requires maintenance from time-to-time and your retirement village is no different. In a lot of cases the monthly fee you pay will cover maintenance and insurance costs. But, if this isn't the case, you could find yourself paying out of pocket costs when something goes wrong. If you would rather take an all-inclusive approach, find out if it's possible to do so or find a retirement village that will include fees in your package.

Other elements to consider will include a budget that allows you to enjoy your retirement funds and whether the local weather system is to your liking. If you don't rush your decision you should discover the perfect home for you