The current pensions crisis, coupled with increased life expectancy, means that retirees need to think carefully about whether their funds will see them through an enjoyable and relaxed retirement.

One way to do this is to 'downsize' by selling your current home and buying a smaller property - and a retirement home could be the perfect option.

Moving into a retirement complex is no longer viewed as joining the 'pipe and slippers' brigade on the slippery slope into senility. It simply means that you can leave all the hard work associated with home ownership to someone else while you get on with enjoying your retirement. And it's not just the elderly who are signing up - this option is becoming popular with newly-retired people who recognise that buying a smaller retirement property will enable them to spend their money on other things.

The ever-growing 'new generation' of retirement homes allow residents to maintain their independence, safe in the knowledge that any problems can be swiftly taken care of by a house manager. Retirement homes are now being designed along more contemporary lines, combining modern style with the low maintenance aspect.

McCarthy & Stone, Britain's largest builder of purpose-built retirement apartments, has opened a brand new development in Studley, sure to appeal to the discerning retired homebuyer. Each apartment at Pardoe Court has its own private front door and entrance hall, plus fully fitted bathroom and kitchen - and for residents who enjoy companionship, there is also a communal lounge and a hotel-style guest suite for entertaining family and friends.

David Wilson Retirement Homes also offers a new development - Cypress Grange in Bromsgrove. Again, these one- and two-bedroom apartments are stylishly appointed and include considerate touches like the inclusion of a washer/dryer in each kitchen so that residents don't have to rely on communal laundry provisions.

A service team takes responsibility for time-consuming chores such as gardening, window cleaning and exterior maintenance, leaving plenty of time for residents to enjoy retired life.

Both of the developments feature a range of modern security systems such as smoke and intruder alarms and even TV surveillance systems for real peace of mind, plus the 24-hour Careline emergency system.

For more information about Pardoe Court, call 01527 852867, and to find out about Cypress Grange call agents Allan Morris & Peace on 01527 874646.