Making the right kind of move

When considering their future needs, some people decide that their current home might not be right for them in later life.

Whether you are thinking of moving somewhere smaller, nearer to family and friends, or are interested in accommodation aimed specifically at older people (commonly known as retirement housing, sheltered housing or sheltered accommodation), it is important to think about how to get the most out of making the change.

Are you looking for familiarity? Security? Privacy?
Do you want to live in a new environment? Or different type of property?
Do you like the idea of a sense of community?
Would you benefit from some extra support to make life easier, such as having someone help with certain tasks or to call on in an emergency?

Researching your housing options

Finding out as much as possible about all the options available to you gives you the best chance of making the right choice.

As Anchor is England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, we know that for those used to living in their own property, it can be helpful to know the difference between the main types of retirement accommodation available when making your decision.

Properties to rent

Also known as retirement housing, sheltered accommodation or sheltered housing, there are
rental properties available specifically for people in later life. These are self-contained houses,
apartments or flats usually supported by a manager or warden, with access to 24-hour emergency help. Despite the commonly used names, you don’t usually need to be retired to live in this type of
housing, you will just need to be over a certain age.

Find out more about Anchor's rental properties

Housing with extra care

Sometimes called assisted living, housing with care or extra care housing, these self-contained flats also have a range of on-site facilities in a fully accessible setting, and an on-site team of professionals available 24 hours a day. Designed for older people who are still independent but need more help from time to time, the care and support services available can include catering services, personal care and wellbeing services. These properties can be available to rent or on a shared ownership basis.

Find out more about Anchor's housing with extra care

Properties for sale

Home ownership options for people in later life include leasehold ownership, freehold ownership
and shared ownership. Properties range from houses and bungalows in quiet cul-de-sacs to
apartments in modern estates with communal facilities and wellbeing services. Designed to
make owning property more affordable in later life, Shared Ownership and Older Persons Shared
Ownership are options to purchase a percentage of a property and pay rent on the remainder.

Find out more about Anchor's properties for sale

Retirement villages

This describes a variety of rental and/ or leasehold properties set out in a village development. Retirement villages often offer modern homes in a community setting with on-site leisure facilities such as restaurants and gyms, as well as the option to opt-in to at-home care packages if required. Some can also have a care home on-site.

Find out more about Anchor's retirement villages

Care homes

Care home residents have their own bedrooms, some with ensuites, but share all communal areas within one building. There is access to 24-hour care and are most suitable for those who require continual care and, or specialist nursing or dementia care.

Find out more about Anchor's care homes