Let's face it, it's never going to be an easy decision to sell your family home and move into retirement accommodation. A move of this nature is often fraught with emotion. After all, you are selling something intensely personal that generally holds a lifetime of memories.

The move also usually involves downsizing, which may mean letting go of treasured possessions. However, those who plan ahead and invest in the right retirement development may well find that they end up living out their golden years to the full in an environment that caters for their every need.

It's no secret that there is a shortage of retirement properties available. In fact, although it may come as a surprise, it appears that this is a global problem and it's a situation that needs to be rectified urgently. People are living longer and, judging by what's available in this country, are becoming far more decisive when it comes to choosing retirement accommodation. Those who don't make early provision may well find that there is a long waiting list at the retirement village of their choice as it has become increasingly common for the younger set to invest in such developments long before they reach retirement age.

KwaZulu-Natal is the ideal spot to buy a retirement property, mainly because unlike other areas of the country, it boasts a moderate winter climate. It's also often more affordable with similar properties in upmarket parts of Gauteng or the Western Cape commanding higher prices. Although certain areas in the province are renowned as retirement hot spots, a growing number of developments catering for retirees and offering a wealth of facilities have sprung up throughout KZN.

The rudimentary shelters of yesteryear with few trimmings are a thing of the past for many investors, and these days retirement villages offer their residents an amazing array of lifestyles and choices. Add a healthy dose of socialising into the mix and you have a group of happy seniors who often live fuller lives than do most younger folk.

I love the community living aspect that living in a retirement village offers. The other aspect that appeals is the fact that fellow residents understand the challenges of growing older and tend to be far more patient with their peers than younger folk.

Elizabeth Du Rand, retiree

Best places to retire in KZN

Howick/Midlands: this area is incredibly popular with retirees from all over the country. Good shopping and a range of medical facilities make the area an ideal spot in which to enjoy your golden years.

Upper Highway: close enough to some of Durban’s top shopping centres to make shopping a breeze, the area also offers peaceful living for those looking for a more countrified environment.

Umhlanga: high-end living at its very best, this area literally has something for everyone – from top-class shopping to gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean.

Ballito: retirees enjoy the best of both worlds when they move to this gorgeous town on the North Coast namely upmarket living and relatively easy access to some of the best game parks in the country.

This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.