The benefits of retirement living
Ready to enjoy a lifestyle that's built around you? Here’s how retirement living can help you make the most of your next chapter.
Why social connections matter in retirement
Friday, 12 December 2025
Feeling a bit isolated? Loneliness might not be something we like to talk about, but it’s a feeling many of us have faced - and for older Aussies, it can creep in more often than we'd like.
Have you ever had one of those days where the house feels just a little too quiet? Maybe you’ve wished for a friendly face to share a cuppa with or somewhere to go to catch up with friends.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called loneliness and social isolation a global crisis and retirees are among those most affected. In fact one in four older Aussies report feeling socially isolated, according to a study by the Australian Psychological Society and Swinburne University.
But there is good news! Building social connections can change everything. Retirement can be a time to rediscover community, create new friendships and enjoy life’s simple joys with others by your side.
Moving to a retirement village could be the fresh start you need for a happier, more connected lifestyle filled with friendly faces and vibrant community living.
Do you ever feel lonely?
Let’s face it - retirement brings big changes: workmates aren’t around anymore, family might be busy or live far away and the small daily interactions we once took for granted - like school drop off meet ups or office banter - become less frequent. While a slower pace can be nice, too much peace and quiet can start to feel isolating.
According to WHO Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the consequences of loneliness and social isolation are profound.
“People without enough strong social connections are at higher risk of stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, suicide and more,” said Dr. Ghebreyesus.
The WHO has announced a new Commission on Social Connection, to address loneliness as a health threat. Read more about how the Commission is aiming to promote social connection as a priority.
The risks of loneliness
The WHO reports that a lack of social connection poses a risk of early death comparable to - or even greater than major health concerns like smoking, excessive drinking, physical inactivity, obesity and air pollution.
For retirees, this highlights the importance of staying socially active and fostering friendships. Whether it’s through shared hobbies, community events or simply catching up with friends, staying connected can significantly improve your overall wellbeing.
If you’re looking to build new connections, you might consider joining a local group, volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about, exploring a new hobby or getting involved in a local sporting club.
Has your neighbourhood changed over time?
It’s not always easy to stay connected in the suburbs, regardless of your age.
Over time, the neighbourhoods begin to change. New families move in, familiar faces move away and the sense of community can start to feel a little different. With busy schedules and life moving at full speed, staying connected can become more of a challenge.
For Lyn and Jenny, residents of Sherwin Rise, life at their village brings back memories of simpler times, where neighbours knew each other and formed genuine connections.
"When I grew up... you knew your neighbours and everybody looked out for you and that’s how it used to be like at my place. The lady over the road would jump in and it was the same, you saw someone on the street, you stopped and talked. So, I am really comfortable living here,” Jenny shares.
Building new connections and finding that sense of belonging again is always possible. Sometimes, it’s just about finding the right community to call home.
Can retirement living help you feel less lonely?
Retirement living is more than just a place to live - it offers a built in community of likeminded neighbours. With shared spaces, regular activities and groups to join, village life makes it easy to stay connected, energised and comfortable.
Jenny loves how the sense of community at Sherwin Rise reminds her of the close knit neighbourhoods she remembers growing up.
“I think it is a really great community and there is something happening all the time. My sister will ring me and ask, ‘What’s on your social calendar today? Can I see you today? And I would say ‘Sorry no. I have got Happy Hour later!” she laughs.
Learn more about Lyn and Jenny's story of friendship and the sense of fulfillment that now defines their lives at Sherwin Rise.
It's time to invest in your lifestyle
By investing in your retirement lifestyle, you’re not only securing a comfortable home but also gaining access to a vibrant community.
Whether it’s joining a group fitness class, having a chat over morning tea or simply knowing a friendly neighbour is just next door, retirement living creates the kind of environment where connections come naturally.
To learn more about how investing in your retirement lifestyle can enhance your health and happiness, read our guide.
Life’s better when it’s shared
If loneliness has been weighing on you, moving to a retirement village could open the door to a happier, more connected life. Our villages are thoughtfully designed to foster friendships, support your wellbeing and offer a comfortable, independent lifestyle.
Ready to make the move? Explore our vibrant retirement communities across Australia and find the perfect place to call home today.
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.
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