THERE'S not much that stops broadcaster Alan Jones in his tracks. But the talkback host was "gobsmacked" when he visited a new retirement village in Sydney's Hills District recently.
The veteran radio commentator was at the launch of Cranbrook Care's independent seniors living development Cranbrook Residences in Bella Vista and the adjacent aged care residence Bella Vista Gardens.
Cranbrook Residences - which incorporates 50 one-, two- and three-bedroom pet-friendly apartments overlooking Castle Hill Country Club - welcomed its first residents last year to Stage One of the development. The final stage was completed in November, featuring a purpose-built cinema, multi-purpose arts and crafts room and library.
Speaking at the launch in February Mr Jones said he was "overwhelmed" by the development.
"When I walked in I was gobsmacked about this development," he said.
"It's overwhelming. I congratulate the team at Cranbrook for this glorious piece of architectural symmetry," he said.
"In Australia, there are 400 people turning 75 every day. Due to our advanced medical services, improved diet and exercise, and visionary health initiatives, Australians are now living longer. In 30 years' time, over 5 per cent of the population will be aged 85 or over.
"There is a real and increasing demand for improved aged care and retirement living - these are the things that matter, and that need to be addressed."
Cranbrook Care chief executive Kerry Mann said residents were already settling in.
"The first wave of residents who recently moved into their new abodes at Cranbrook Residences are already enjoying regular visits to the on-site hair salon, meeting up with new friends at the centrally-located café, entertaining family and friends in communal spaces and landscaped outdoor gardens, discovering new books in the well-stocked library, watching movies in the purpose-built cinema and joining classes at the well-equipped gym," said Ms Mann.
"Excellent public transport links nearby make it easy to access local shops, entertainment, churches and more, which is important to help retirees connect with the broader community."
Residents at aged care facility Bella Vista Gardens also have access to the on-site facilities, and the lifestyle teams also offer a range of outings and activities for all residents.
The official launch event, with a live jazz band, was attended by residents and their families from the local community in a marquee on The Green, at Bella Vista Gardens.
Local member for Baulkham Hills, state Liberal MP David Elliott also spoke at the event, canvassing some of the issues that face older Australians as they age and consider moving into retirement.