This article was originally published in DARE magazine, July–August 2026.

Jan has been a resident of Woolooware Shores in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire for more than two years and keeps herself busy with plenty of activities. “I’ve been to my aqua aerobics class this morning already and I’m getting ready for the day,” she says. “I love it.” 

She reveals she used to say she’d never move into a retirement village or buy anything off a plan, but wound up doing both once her husband Mark was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. 

“I like doing a million things, and being active and fit,” she says. “It was important for me to have some capability of continuing to do that, but also to ensure that my husband got the correct care. This was the perfect solution because we’re in a brand-new independent living apartment, and we have 24/7 medical attention for us here for the rest of our lives. 

It’s been great for us.” Jan says the sense of community has been a lifesaver. “I’ve met quite a number of people who are in a similar situation to me, where they have a partner who has a debilitating condition. We all get together and do things and support each other.” 

The amenities and activities on offer has delivered beyond what she had imagined. “We have a swimming pool where they run heaps of classes. We have a cinema and a beautiful cafe. 

We’re just about to open a new restaurant. It’s like living in a five-star hotel and it has far exceeded my expectations.”