The Importance of Autonomy in Well-being at Settlers Lifestyle Village
When choosing a retirement village, the physical attributes often steal the spotlight. Beautiful landscapes, modern amenities, and cosy living spaces are undeniably important. But what about the unseen, yet equally crucial, aspects like the village’s culture?
Among our residents, we foster a sense of community and autonomy that is essential to a fulfilling retirement. In this article, we explore how autonomy plays a pivotal role in enhancing well-being and how living at Settlers Lifestyle Village allows you to live life a little freer.
Understanding Autonomy
Autonomy is about having control over how we live our lives. It’s the freedom to make our own decisions and the ability to self-determine our paths. For retirees, maintaining this autonomy is vital. It influences mental health, well-being, and even physical health. Studies have shown that a sense of autonomy is strongly associated with longevity and the prevention of depression and cognitive decline among the elderly.
Source: National Library of Medicine, Maintaining the dignity and autonomy of older people in the healthcare setting, NIH
The Role of Autonomy in Well-being
Mental Health Benefits
Autonomy significantly impacts mental health. When individuals have control over their lives, they experience lower levels of stress and anxiety. This is particularly important for retirees who may face various life changes. By allowing residents to make their own choices, Settlers Lifestyle Village promotes a sense of security.
Source: National Library of Medicine, and Decreased Autonomy In Community-Dwelling Older Adults NIH
Physical Health Benefits
The benefits of autonomy extend beyond mental health. Active participation in decision-making and community activities encourages physical activity and social interaction, both of which are crucial for maintaining physical health. At Settlers, residents are encouraged to lead activities, arrange social events, and participate in outings, promoting an active lifestyle.
Social Connectedness
Autonomy fosters social connectedness. When residents have a say in what happens in their community, they feel a sense of belonging and purpose. This connectedness is a key factor in overall happiness and well-being. Settlers Lifestyle Village promotes this by ensuring residents are at the heart of all decisions made within the community.
“There is an art group which I enjoy. There’s also a gardening group, and one afternoon we all went to the domain to see the winter garden in the village bus.”
How Settlers Lifestyle Village Supports Autonomy
Resident-led Activities
Unlike other villages where management controls activities, here we encourage residents to take charge. From running the bar to organising social events, our residents choose how they want to live together. It’s about living life on their terms, catering to their needs and wants. This autonomy not only provides a sense of purpose but also promotes community engagement.
“I think ours might be rare – other villages employ staff and the staff organise everything -that is more restricting and less personal. But in ours, we make our own days up – it provides a sense of purpose, a bit of pride that it’s your area that you look after. “
“I’m on the bus driving list. I’ve become a bus driver now. I’ve done my licence. They’re off all the time. They’re always going off somewhere.”
Resident Committee
Settlers Lifestyle Village has a firmly established resident committee that oversees activities and ensures residents’ voices are heard. This committee meets regularly to discuss village matters, address any issues, and plan for the future. Being part of this committee gives residents a platform to express their ideas and concerns, fostering a genuine sense of ownership.
“I’ve just been asked to join the resident committee. Once a month we have a meeting and discuss different things that are going on, any issues”.
“You have a voice. If anyone has a problem with anything you can take it to the committee. I’m on the committee. Once a year we update everyone with what is going on and the plans for the coming year. “
Flexible Living
For a person to feel at home, it is essential that they have the freedom to personalise their spaces and make decisions about their home environment. This flexibility enhances their sense of autonomy and satisfaction with their living conditions.
“Apartments are beautifully renovated, and you can make them your own. Having the freedom to do that is important.
The Unseen Benefits of a Culture of Autonomy
Enhanced Quality of Life
The culture of autonomy at Settlers leads to an enhanced quality of life. Residents feel valued, respected, and empowered, which significantly contributes to their overall well-being. This culture is deeply ingrained in our village’s management and operations, ensuring that every resident feels empowered to live life on their own terms.
Reduced Feeling of Isolation
Autonomy also helps reduce feelings of isolation. By encouraging residents to engage in community activities and decision-making, Settlers fosters a supportive and connected environment. This sense of community helps combat loneliness, which is a common issue among retirees.
Increased Life Satisfaction
When residents have control over their lives and feel a part of a vibrant community, their life satisfaction increases. They wake up each day with a sense of purpose and look forward to participating in activities that they enjoy. This positive outlook on life is a direct result of the autonomy they experience at Settlers.
“This is a happy village and it’s a homely village. It’s not clinical, it’s a home. Scott (owner) always said that – this is your home, and he feels that deeply”.
Conclusion
Choosing a retirement village is more than just evaluating its physical attributes. The unseen aspects, like the culture of autonomy and community, play a significant role in enhancing residents’ well-being.
By fostering a culture of autonomy, we create a true sense of community and belonging that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. Our residents lead activities, participate in decision-making, and enjoy a supportive environment that values their input.
If you’re a retiree looking for a place where you can enjoy a fulfilling and autonomous lifestyle, consider Settlers Lifestyle Village. Join us and experience the difference that autonomy can make in your well-being. Explore more about our community and discover how you can live life a little freer at Settlers.
