© 2025 News On The Block. All rights reserved.
News on the Block is a trading name of Premier Property Media Ltd.
© 2025 News On The Block. All rights reserved.
News on the Block is a trading name of Premier Property Media Ltd.
Throughout my career managing later living properties, I’ve witnessed the sector rapidly evolve, moving away from the traditional retirement norms to cater towards a more diverse and integrated community offering. This shift demands a forward-thinking approach to property management, one which involves modernising existing developments and creating thriving communities.
One of the key changes over the past few years is the later living demographic. Retirement communities now cater to two distinct groups: those who are newly retired, financially comfortable, and looking to downsize for a better lifestyle, and those who are slightly older and have more traditional retirement needs. Whilst this split in demographics presents challenges in creating communities that cater to both groups effectively, we are seeing a shift away from the traditional, one-size-fits-all model to a more diverse offering for retirees. With high-end retirement communities and affordable shared ownership opportunities, the sector is seeing significant investment and innovation.
One of the biggest challenges we see across the sector is perception. Many people still associate later living communities with a care home environment. There’s a lot of stigma attached to it and it results in a reluctance to make the move to a retirement development.
For many, the idea of downsizing from a long-time family home filled with memories can feel daunting. The emotional attachment to their existing property and concerns about change often slow down the decision-making process.
There’s also a lingering concern around property values in the retirement sector. Many people worry whether a retirement property will hold its value over time. However, developments with strong communities and high standards tend to be more desirable and stable.
Additionally, the split demographic can prove to be a barrier for entry because you’ve got very different needs across the community. Therefore, as property managers, it’s important that we identify ways to balance the needs of everyone within the community and provide a diverse offering.
Later living developments are no longer designed to feel like retirement homes with the high wingback chairs and outdated furnishings. Instead, modern communities are being built to feel luxurious, comfortable, safe, and welcoming. FirstPort has been working on upgrading its existing communal spaces to match the aspirational standard of newer developments. Residents can choose from a selection of colours and wallpapers, and we then work in partnership with an interior designer to incorporate modern décor and furniture which is also suitable for mobility needs.
This shift is crucial because residents want to feel proud of their homes. A grand entrance, a well-designed community space, and a sense of luxury all contribute to making these places feel like home.
Digital healthcare services, smart devices, and better connectivity are becoming standard. I expect that future developments will incorporate personal assistance technology, virtual GP services, and other digital solutions to enhance the quality of life for residents.
The UK currently falls short of the estimated new build retirement properties needed each year. With an ageing population and increasing demand for quality later living options, there is a growing need for investment and development.
As we see more communities being built, new models of later living will emerge. We are already seeing more build-to-rent options in the later living space, allowing people to keep their finances flexible rather than committing to homeownership. Shared ownership models, like those pioneered by Platinum Skies, are also expanding, offering aspirational living at a more affordable price point.
New Zealand is leading the way with integrated retirement communities – a model that is gaining traction in the UK and will undoubtedly progress further over the coming years as the industry regenerates itself.
Later living is all about creating engaging communities where people can live well, stay connected with others, and enjoy their retirement on their own terms. Success in the later living sector will depend on embracing innovation and ensuring that all later living properties remain desirable, well-maintained and suitable for the diverse communities they serve.
Ed Cooper, Regional Director at The FirstPort Group