Sheltered or retirement housing is a development of purpose-built homes with certain amenities. A development could be a block or blocks of flats, or could consist of individual or linked bungalows. Some developments contain both. Amenities could include communal facilities such as a lounge, laundry and guest bedroom(s). In most developments there will be an emergency alarm system and or the services of a warden who may or may not be resident. The warden may be given a different name, such as social or residents' secretary. The main duties of a warden are to act as a good neighbour, to summon help in an emergency and to ensure that the common areas are looked after. Provision will be made for the cleaning, maintenance and insurance of the communal parts. All the services and amenities will be paid for by a service charge.
Age Concern have a useful fact sheet on buying retirement housing – get it from their website http://www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/
Or by clicking on this link:
http://www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/home--care/housing-choices-/buying-a-retirement-home/
Age Concern Scotland offer free independent advice and information to older people on a range of issues - including sheltered and retirement housing. You can contact them on on 0845 833 0200, or write to them at
Age Concern Scotland
Causeway House
160 Causewayside
EDINBURGH EH9 1PR
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