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How to talk to mum and dad about retirement living


Monday, 20 October 2025

Thinking it might be time to talk to your parents about retirement living? We’ve got some tips to help you approach it and get the conversation flowing.

Maybe it was the lawn that made you notice.

Longer than Dad would usually let it get.

Then Mum mentioned she hadn’t used the upstairs rooms in over a month. It's quiet up there now, barely used. And the garage, once home to their perfectly parked car, is too packed with boxes full of bits and bobs, old memories stacked to the ceiling.

Nothing is wrong. But something has… shifted.

You start to wonder: is the big family home starting to feel too much for Mum and Dad? Is there too much space to look after?

Is it time to talk to your parents about retirement living?

What is retirement living?

Many people still confuse retirement living with aged care, but they’re very different.

Retirement living is designed for independent, active seniors who want to spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying life. Village life includes a range of resort style amenities just for residents, like a swimming pool and gym, bowling green, library, community garden – the list goes on! 

A senior couple about to take a dip in their retirement village swimming pool


Most villages have regular social events, hobby groups and clubs that make it easy to stay active and meet like-minded people. It’s all about comfort, convenience and connection without giving up your independence or personal space.

By downsizing to a retirement village, your parents won’t be giving up their independence. In fact, they’ll be gaining:

  • A low maintenance, comfortable home
  • A welcoming and social community
  • The freedom to travel or relax on their own terms
  • Support nearby, if or when it’s needed

💡 Hear from residents who say moving to a Keyton retirement village was the best decision they ever made.

Starting the conversation

This isn’t a decision to rush. What matters most is how the conversation is approached. Start gently. Ask how they’re finding the house lately. Is the upkeep wearing thin? Are they still using all the space?

You could try asking:

“Have you ever thought about moving somewhere that’s a bit easier to manage day to day?”
“You’ve been talking about that big trip, wouldn’t it be nice to have a place you could just lock up and not worry about while you’re away?”

“There’s a village nearby that looks really lovely. Would you be open to having a look this weekend?”

A lady with a younger female walking in the garden smiling to each other


Why it’s worth talking sooner rather than later

Sometimes families wait until something unexpected happens, a fall, a hospital stay or the passing of one parent, before exploring retirement living. But having the conversation before something happens can make a big difference. 

It gives your parents the chance to plan together, while they’re well and active. Plus, it lets everyone make decisions from a place of choice rather than urgency. 

Read how Michaela found a sense of peace knowing her mum was already settled in her village before her dad passed away

The next chapter awaits

Everyone’s retirement journey is different and recognising it’s time for a change isn’t always easy. 

What matters most is creating space for open, honest conversations without pressure. When your parents feel supported, they’re more likely to come to a decision in their own time, knowing you’ve got their back.



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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