The concept of active aging was introduced around 1990 by the World Health Organisation, who describe this concept as the process of optimising opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age. This concept, encourages over 55’s to exercise more often and partake in social activities, as research has shown by maintaining an active and social lifestyle, retirees are able to enjoy a better quality of life and suffer fewer age related ailments and illnesses.
Although the concept of active aging has been around for some time, developments in the past have not managed to fully understand the concept, or properly implement ‘active aging’ into retirement homes. This is changing, as we are noticeably seeing more retirement developments adopting this concept strategically into their plans. With active aging now being incorporated into developments and promoted through healthcare providers, retirement living provides more options to engage and inspire retirees; physically, mentally and socially.
Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village is setting the bar for retirement lifestyle and promoting the concept of active aging. Set within the gated Kindlewood Estate, Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village residents benefit from having the likes of tennis courts, a swimming pool and 14 hectares of safe wetland areas and green open spaces to walk or jog along. In addition, their Leisure Centre will provide the ideal setting to engage with friends and neighbours, ensuring an environment for over 55’s to be socially stimulated. Furthermore, Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village is constructing a Care Centre, that will incorporate world-class healthcare, as well as promote community lifestyle.
With decades of research indicating just how important being active and exercising is for seniors, the concept of active aging assists in lowering problems for those with heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic conditions. As the Director of the National Institute of Aging, Dr. Richard J. Hodes states, “A central goal of aging research is the identification of what can be done to promote healthy aging.” This is exactly what Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village is striving to do; through extensive research into the market, they are providing retirees with the facilities and secure environment to live an active lifestyle.