Enhancing acceptance of retirement villages in later life: a strategy-based dimensional analysis
Phui Fung Wong, Xin Yu Ling, Hong Kok Wang, Li Ping Yow, Pei Sin LayPurpose
Population ageing is reshaping how older adults evaluate and make decisions about later-life living arrangements. Retirement villages (RVs) have emerged as a viable housing option that promotes independence, well-being and community engagement; however, their acceptance remains limited in many emerging ageing societies, particularly in developing countries where retirement living markets are constrained by financial, institutional and socio-cultural challenges. This study aims to examine strategies that enhance the acceptance of RVs and identify the underlying strategic dimensions that shape public perceptions of retirement living.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted with 142 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the perceived importance of acceptance-enhancing strategies, while exploratory factor analysis was performed to identify the latent strategic dimensions underlying these perceptions.
Findings
Four strategic dimensions were identified: operational and environmental quality; financial accessibility and affordability; governance and institutional support; and social acceptance and community engagement. Among these, operational and environmental quality emerged as the most influential dimension, followed by financial accessibility and affordability. The findings indicate that acceptance of RVs is shaped by the interaction of physical, financial, institutional and socio-cultural considerations rather than by isolated strategies.
Originality/value
This study extends the RV literature by shifting the focus from barrier identification to a strategy-oriented framework for enhancing acceptance. By empirically identifying the strategic dimensions underpinning RV acceptance, the study provides a structured and context-sensitive framework to support policymakers, planners and developers in designing retirement living models that are responsive to the needs of ageing populations, particularly in developing countries.