Retirement homes and senior citizens' residences promise an upscale retirement. In addition to comprehensive services and care, residents can count on luxurious facilities and attractive leisure options. But beware: not all facilities live up to their name.
Retirement homes and nursing homes: What's behind them?
In today's language, these terms are used for facilities with an upmarket range of services. However, the terms are not legally protected, which means that even simple forms of assisted living or care homes can call themselves „retirement homes“. It is therefore essential to scrutinise what is on offer.
Luxury and comfort: what characterises a genuine retirement home?
Even without a legal definition, there are common quality features that characterise a retirement home:
- Upscale private rooms with luxurious furnishings
- Additional facilities such as swimming pools, saunas, libraries and elegant lounges
- Sophisticated leisure and cultural programme
- Care services from outpatient care to full inpatient care
Retirement homes often offer physiotherapy and medical practices, restaurants, boutiques, function rooms and spiritual relaxation rooms such as chapels. However, these amenities come at a correspondingly high price.
Pension package: All-inclusive accommodation
No rent is paid in senior residences; instead, a monthly flat-rate pension is paid. This covers living and care costs and enables „all-inclusive“ living. However, there are also disadvantages:
- Residents may be paying for services that they do not (yet) need.
- Comprehensive all-round care can have a negative impact on independence.
Further information:
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice. Please have the facts of your specific individual case checked by a lawyer or tax consultant.
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