How to choose the right assisted living facility in New Zealand

Assisted living in a serviced apartment is a type of residential care designed for older adults who may need some assistance but want to maintain their autonomy. Support with everyday tasks such as housework, home maintenance, and meals is provided in a safe, comfortable environment that encourages social engagement and personal autonomy.

Tony and June feel 'lucky' in their serviced apartment

Princess Alexandra Village residents Tony and June still can’t quite believe their luck to be living in their spacious, sunny serviced apartment. While Tony was hesitant at first about moving to assisted living from their townhouse in the village, he quickly changed his mind. Four years later, the couple are still very happy with their decision.

“It was the best thing we’ve done,” says June. “It’s north facing, so it gets lots of light, and it’s a good size, so I’ve got room for my card-making supplies.”

Tony and June love their serviced apartment at Princess Alexandra Village.

What to look for in an assisted living facility

When evaluating assisted living in a serviced apartment, some things to consider when looking around are:

• Staff support - How much support is available? Will there be someone available 24/7 if you have a fall or other medical event and press your emergency call bell?
• Safety and accessibility - Is the serviced apartment designed with your mobility and safety in mind? Does it have call bells, is it easily accessible, and is it in a secure environment? Could you easily navigate the hallway and bathroom with a walker?
• Medical assistance and personal care - Is there support available to help you with medications, dressing, and other personal needs if you require it?
• Lifestyle amenities - Social activities, wellness, and delicious food all contribute to a fulfilling life. Does the facility offer a variety of amenities and activities to choose from?

Some of the assisted-living services offered at Ryman include chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, personal care, and a full calendar of optional activities. The beautifully designed serviced apartments are located close to amenities and in the heart of each village.

Assisted-living residents in Ryman villages have access to amenities such as an onsite cafe (amenities vary between villages).

Questions to ask when choosing an assisted living facility in New Zealand

If you're touring assisted living providers, some questions that you can ask are:

• Which services are included in the standard fee? Are optional services available?
• How are residents' care needs assessed?
• What kind of training do staff receive?
• How does assisted living help residents to maintain their independence?
• Is there a care centre on site if your needs change? What happens if you need higher levels of care in future?
• What amenities are on site?

Speaking with village team members and current residents can offer valuable insight into daily life and the levels of support provided.

Ryman serviced apartments include kitchenettes.

Difference between assisted living and nursing home

• Assisted living is for people who may need a little help with daily tasks such as meals, housekeeping, personal care, and some medical care, but can still live independently with the right assistance. In Ryman villages, assisted living residents live in their own private apartments with access to services, village amenities, and activity programmes.
  
• Nursing homes and care centres provide 24/7 medical and personal care for people with higher medical and health support needs who are no longer able to live independently. Their personal and clinical care is delivered in a residential care facility such as a rest home, hospital, or dementia care centre.

Fresh towels delivered to the door of an assisted living resident at Ryman.

Is there assisted living in New Zealand?

Yes – assisted living for older people is available in New Zealand, and there is increasing demand for high-quality, flexible care options. Ryman offers assisted living in serviced apartments in a number of locations within New Zealand. 

These apartments feature:

• A private ensuite and kitchenette
• Delicious daily meals, plus morning and afternoon tea
• Housekeeping and linen services
• Call bells monitored 24/7
• An optional calendar of activities and outings

Ryman residents in assisted living also have priority access to Ryman care centres if their needs change. 

Main meals and housekeeping are included in Ryman assisted living services.

How long do most people stay in assisted living?

Many residents live in assisted living for several years, depending on their health and personal preferences. Some may transition to higher levels of care if their needs change, while others are able to age in place with evolving support plans. It all depends on the level of care required for each individual.

At Ryman, support plans are regularly reviewed to ensure each resident receives the right level of assistance as their needs evolve.

Which is more expensive, nursing home or assisted living?

Generally, nursing homes/care centres are more expensive due to the higher level of care provided, including 24/7 clinical support.

Assisted living generally involves:

• Lower daily fees
• Optional services based on individual needs
• Lower levels of care than that provided in a care centre

Ryman offers transparent pricing for all levels of assisted living, so you know exactly what you're paying for and how much it will cost.

How is most assisted living usually paid for?

In New Zealand, assisted living is usually funded through a combination of:

• Entry payment: This is a one off payment you make to buy the right to occupy your serviced apartment. When you leave your apartment, this will be repaid to you, with a percentage retained by the provider as your contribution to the running and maintenance of the village. This is called a deferred management fee.
• A weekly fee: This covers services like meals, housekeeping, and access to amenities. Your weekly fee will vary depending on which services you choose and the level of assistance you require.

Read here for more information on fees and costs in retirement villages.

At Ryman, residents can choose between fixed or indexed weekly fees, providing financial certainty and flexibility.

What is one of the biggest drawbacks of assisted living?

One potential drawback is that assisted living may not provide enough medical support for residents whose health needs increase significantly. In such cases, transitioning to residential aged care may be necessary.

This is why Ryman residents have preferential access to Ryman care centres. Provided there is a suitable care room or care suite available, Ryman residents can move seamlessly from their serviced apartment into care without having to leave the village. If there is no space in the care centre at their village at the time they need to transfer, they have priority access to other Ryman care centres.

An example of a Ryman assisted-living apartment with one bedroom, ensuite, living room and kitchenette. Apartments vary between villages.

Why choose Ryman?

Ryman is committed to providing dignity and quality of life for residents at every stage of retirement, with:

• Purpose-built villages with modern, accessible apartments
• Professional, compassionate staff trained in aged care
• On-site medical centres, delicious dining, and engaging activities
• Flexible care options that evolve with residents’ needs
• Transparent pricing and financial clarity

Contact Ryman 0800 000 290
Or book a tour to see how we’re redefining assisted living with care you can count on.