Living Gems
24
Apr
Pros and Cons of Four Retirement Living Options
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Posted by
lachlan
Whether your plans include lots of travel or dedicating more time to long-neglected hobbies, there is no single ‘right’ way to enjoy retirement. But before you put up your feet, there is some homework you should do before stopping to enjoy the best years of your life. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of four types of retirement living options available in Australia and some of the financial and lifestyle considerations to consider and how you can downsize for a more enjoyable retirement.
Four retirement options to explore
If you’ve made the decision to downsize your current home and eliminate the costs and time associated with home repairs and maintenance, you may be considering the following options: Leasehold retirement villages
Aged care facilities
Strata retirement villages
Land lease lifestyle communitiesIt’s important to take your time and carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each choice before deciding, so let’s dig a little deeper.
1. Leasehold retirement villages Pros of retirement villagesLow-maintenance homes with no gardens Independent living in a community of people sharing many of the same...
19
Apr
Impromptu happy hour entertainment raises funds for Salvation Army Flood Appeal
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Posted by
lachlan
Following the devastating floods last month, Living Gems Toowoomba resident and retired farmer, Terry Arnold, approached the Home Owners Committee with a wonderful initiative. He asked the Committee if he could perform at Friday night's happy hour to raise money for the Salvation Army Flood Appeal.Terry's proposal was welcomed with open arms, and his entertainment was scheduled for that very evening. A lovely surprise for all those at happy hour, Terry took to the stage toward the end of the evening to perform a repertoire of hits, from the Bee Gees and Neil Diamond to Johnny O'Keefe and much, much more.
GOLDEN OLDIE HITS MAKE HAPPY HOUR EVEN HAPPIER
Taking a number of song requests, Terry also gifted copies of his CDs in exchange for a donation. A popular entertainer at Living Gems and in the local Toowoomba community, it wasn't long before Terry had the room tapping their toes, singing along and getting up to dance.Being a last-minute gig, many of...
07
Apr
Your brand new home awaits… Introducing the Yarra
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Posted by
lachlan
Taking our home designs to a whole new level, our brand new floorplan, the Yarra offers the ultimate in spacious and carefree living. This luxurious home is the perfect rightsize for Over 50s who are looking for an easy-to-maintain, gorgeous home that’s also affordable. Architecturally designed, the Yarra features 3 generous bedrooms, the main with ensuite and a large walk-in robe. Offering light-filled, open-plan living, the lounge, kitchen and dining areas flow seamlessly to the outdoor alfresco patio, creating the idyllic space to relax or entertain. Whether you’re happy spending some quiet time at home, enjoy hosting dinner and drinks or love being surrounded by family, Yarra accommodates your every need. With next-level inclusions such as integrated kitchen appliances, stone benchtops and a walk-in pantry, we love giving you more (for less)! TheYarra also includes multi-zoned ducted air conditioning and stunning 3 metre high ceilings. It doesn’t get much better than that! Isn’t it time you lived life to the fullest? Book your...
07
Apr
What to plant in Autumn
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Posted by
lachlan
Now that we’re heading into the cooler weather, it’s prime time for sowing your garden in South East Queensland. But, what to plant in Autumn? Whether you have a garden out the back, a few pots on the patio or are part of a community garden initiative, here’s our go-to guide for growing aromatic herbs, delicious veggies and beautifully fragrant flowers.
SAGE ADVICE FOR GROWING HERBS
Our fave herbs to plant in autumn include garlic, mint, thyme, basil and dill. Great for both indoor and outdoor pots, these herbs smell wonderful and add amazing flavour to any dish. To optimise their growth, plant your herbs in well-manured soil with good drainage. You also want to make sure they only receive partial sun.
UN-BEET-ABLE VEGGIES
The cooler months in Brisbane provide the perfect climate for growing vegetables. So what to plant in Autumn? Our favourites include tomatoes, capsicums, eggplant, beetroot and radish. And of course, there’s the green-team of cucumbers, zucchinis, cabbage, broccoli, silverbeet and...
07
Apr
Why it’s important for seniors to be socially active
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Posted by
lachlan
Did you know that staying socially active as you age has a profoundly positive impact on your health and happiness? Yes, getting out and about and connecting with others not only keeps loneliness at bay, but also enriches your life, in more ways than one. That’s why, at Living Gems, we go above and beyond to create wonderful close-knit Communities. Our Lifestyle Resorts provide Residents with exclusive access to gold-standard recreational facilities. And the social activities on your doorstep are endless!
BYE-BYE LONELINESS. HELLO HAPPINESS
As you get older, keeping up an active social life can easily fall to the bottom of your priority list. And, although there may be some obstacles to being socially active, it’s essential for your health and well-being.Being social not only brings you happiness, but it gives you a sense of purpose. Engaging with friends and family helps you feel secure, supported and also protects your mental health, reducing the risk of anxiety and depression.
CREATING SOCIAL CONNECTIONS IS...
01
Apr
Looking to move into a Retirement Community?
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Posted by
lachlan
Ah, retirement! It’s the holy grail for working Australians, a new chapter of freedom, fun and carefree living. And what better way to live life to the fullest than making the move into a retirement Community. Whether you’re ready to downsize (or rightsize) from your large family home, are feeling isolated in suburbia or want to be surrounded by like-minded people, there are many Over 50s living options available.But the only question is, which one is right for you? Let’s take a look below.
LIVING IT UP IN AN OVER 50S LIFESTYLE RESORT
Offering a wonderful, active lifestyle for retirees who don’t do boring, moving into a Lifestyle Resort enables you to live life your way. With infinite activities and social opportunities at your fingertips, every day is like you’re on holiday.You also get to have a say in how your Resort is run, with each facility instating a Home Owners Committee, who represents your views. Many Lifestyle Resorts also have a social...
24
Mar
Everything you need to know about retirement villages
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Posted by
lachlan
What you need to know about retirement lifestyle options.
If you’re tired of the ongoing time and expense of managing a family home and are looking for a more manageable property, moving to a retirement village is often considered a viable option.However, it is important to understand what retirement villages are and whether they suit your needs.This article explores different retirement lifestyle options to help you make an informed decision. We look at:Retirement villages
Lifestyle villages
Land lease communities or over-50s lifestyle resortsWe then explore some of the factors you need to be aware of before planning your next move.
What is a retirement village?
‘Retirement village’ is a catch-all term for housing specially designed for the over 55s. They might all seem the same at first glance but when you dig a little deeper, they each have significant differences that could impact your lifestyle and financial future.First, you must decide if you intend to rent or buy.
Retirement village rentals
Retirement lifestyle villages...
22
Mar
Quinoa, Cucumber and Apple Salad
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Posted by
lachlan
This month, we’d love to share one of our all-time favourite salad recipes. Quick and easy to throw together, it’s the perfect side dish to accompany a BBQ or roast. And you might also be lucky enough to use home-grown veggies from the community garden!This salad does come with one warning though… be sure to dish your serving up first - as it’s that delicious, it will be devoured before you know it!
INGREDIENTS
½ cup quinoa
1 continental cucumber (diced)
1 red apple (diced)
2 large handfuls baby spinach
½ red onion (thinly sliced)
2 tbsp sultanas
2 tbsp pine nuts
Dressing
6 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp dijon mustard
½ garlic clove (grated)METHODPlace the quinoa in a small saucepan with 1 cup of water. Cook uncovered on medium heat until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove the saucepan from heat and cover, allowing it to steam for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Combine the cucumber, apple, baby spinach, red onion and sultanas...
10
Mar
We’ve got your best interests at heart
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Posted by
lachlan
Moving into an Over 50s Lifestyle Resort is an exciting decision, but also a big one. You need to make sure that your interests are always protected. That’s why, at Living Gems, you have automatic access to a Home Owners Committee who are there to represent your views, concerns and offer their full support.
WHAT IS A HOME OWNERS COMMITTEE?
Under the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Act 2003, Residents in a lifestyle resort can establish a Home Owners Committee. Members of the committee are voted in by Residents each year and are responsible for interacting with the Resort Owner on their behalf. The Home Owners Committee is primarily focused on the day-to-day running of the Resort and communicating Resident proposals or concerns to the Resort Manager.
HOW DO HOME OWNERS COMMITTEES OPERATE IN A LIVING GEMS LIFESTYLE RESORT?
Here at Living Gems, each Home Owners Committee is structured to ensure that your community is getting the best representation.Some Home Owners Committees will have sub-committees...
10
Mar
Best Brisbane Day Trips: Our pick for Over 50s
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Posted by
lachlan
If you’re looking for your next adventure - thats’ still close to home check out our favourite Brisbane day trips with so much on offer right on your doorstep, the hardest decision for you will be what to do first.
BEACH-GOERS
Gold Coast
Located an hour’s drive south of Brisbane are the iconic beaches of the Gold Coast. With white sandy stretches bordering the stunning crystal-clear ocean, the Gold Coast offers the ultimate seaside fix. Also known for its beautiful waterways, you can choose to catch a wave, paddle in the protected waters or why not enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise?
Sunshine Coast
Heading north from Brisbane, a 90 minute drive will take you to the picture-perfect Sunshine Coast.With spectacular beaches extending from Caloundra through to the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy National Park, you are truly spoilt for choice. Take a dip in the ocean, cruise the waterways or enjoy the beach scene from a local cafe – the choice is yours.
FOR THE...
07
Feb
A new year, a new ‘fun-filled’ chapter
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Posted by
lachlan
Great news! We have an (easy to keep) New Year’s resolution for you that promises the most wonderful lifestyle! Are you ready for it? It’s making the move to Living Gems. Truly the best way to start your new year (and new life), Living Gems Resorts offer everything you need to stay fit, healthy, connected and happy.
SAY HELLO TO A SPORTING GOOD TIME
As a retiree, you know how important it is to continue being fit and active – not only for your physical wellbeing but also for your mental health.Helping you live life to the fullest, Living Gems offers an endless array of recreation that’s right on your doorstep. Whether you’re fiercely competitive or simply like to have a bit of fun while you exercise, you’ll find the perfect activity at Living Gems.From scoring the ultimate strike in ten-pin bowling to enjoying a daily workout in the gym, it’s easy to stay fit and healthy at Living Gems. How about...
