Generation Joy: Embracing the golden years

Two elderly people sitting on a yellow sofa, engaged in conversation, with light shining through sheer curtains in the background.

Yes, retirement villages are suited to those over the age of 55 (dependent on the village). But this is a demographic defined by mindset, not by date of birth. It’s about discovering new pleasures, rekindling passions, and embracing later life with purpose. At Audley, we've had the privilege of helping thousands of people embrace their golden years. We see it every day in the integrated retirement communities we manage - homeowners who are living not just longer, but better, with purpose, creativity, and a connection to their neighbours.

Too often, the narrative around ageing focuses on decline. But in our experience, later life is rich with opportunity. With the right environment and support, it becomes a time of exploration and fulfilment.

Audley homeowners learn new skills, rediscover forgotten hobbies, form friendships, and, most importantly, enJOY every day. Many of our homeowners tell us this is the happiest, most liberating time of their lives. At a time of life when it can feel like we are losing our identity, it's important to find purpose in the day to day. Purpose improves mental and physical wellness, boosts resilience, and enhances quality of life.

Whether it’s through mentoring, joining in with events, leading a hobbies and interest group, or tending to the allotments, our homeowners continually show us that a life of meaning doesn’t end at retirement.

#generationjoy

Generation Joy is the new campaign launched to celebrate Integrated Retirement Communities, and we're on board! Search #generationjoy on social media.

You may also spot the new Generation Joy campaign in magazines such as Prima, Red and Good Housekeeping.

Generation Joy is not about grand gestures or ticking off bucket lists (though there’s plenty of that too). It’s also about the quieter joys: the ritual of morning coffee with a neighbour, the sense of calm after a yoga class, or the satisfaction of preparing a favourite recipe in a well-designed kitchen.

These moments matter. They’re the threads that make up the rich tapestry of later life.

Technology plays an increasingly important role too, and our homeowners embrace the ability to book classes and events via their mobile phone.

We invite families, partners, and future homeowners to reimagine what later life can look like. Our upcoming events are a great way to experience what living in an integrated retirement community is like.

At Audley, we don’t just provide a place to live, we believe the best years still lie ahead.

Upcoming events

What does 'ARCO approved' mean?

Integrated Retirement Communities offer people the opportunity to live independently in their own home as part of a wider community. Lifestyle, wellbeing and care services are available to support people’s independence and aspirations. The Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO) says these communities are the fast-emerging ‘lifestyle option’ for older people, sitting between ‘sheltered housing’ where minimal support is provided, and ‘care’ or ‘nursing’ homes, which are increasingly focussed on supporting people with higher levels of care needs. Audley Villages is an ARCO approved operator of Integrated Retirement Communities. Find out more here: https://www.arcouk.org or download the ARCO IRC guide here (PDF).

What is an Audley village?

An Audley retirement village is a purpose-built beautiful and secure collection of houses, cottages and apartments, which are available to buy if you are over 55. In the centre of an Audley retirement village there is a centrepiece building, which houses the facilities of the Audley Club, of which you are automatically a member. The building may be a restored Tudor hall, a rebuilt Georgian manor or a refurbished Victorian villa with facilities including a restaurant, bar bistro, lounge, a health and wellbeing centre, treatment rooms and a swimming pool. It is also from here that we run the estate, maintain the grounds and properties and provide the services you require. Many of these restored, historic buildings have the added pleasure of containing exclusive apartments and penthouses that are available to buy.

* Facilities vary per village, please speak to your Audley sales team to learn more about the Audley Club.

How big is a retirement village?

Audley retirement villages vary in size, but is most commonly made up of about 100 retirement properties.

Can I use the facilities of other Audley retirement villages?

Yes, you can use all the Audley Club facilities, including the restaurant, at any Audley retirement village as little or as much as you like.