Relocation intention to a retirement village: using the Push-Pull-Mooring framework

Purpose Retirement villages are residential communities designed for seniors, offering various amenities and services tailored to their needs. This study aims to investigate factors influencing relocation intention to retirement villages in Malaysia by using the push-pull-mooring framework. Design/methodology/approach Using a quantitative survey of 345 individuals aged 35 and above, the authors identified important push and pull factors using mental well-being as the mooring factor which moderates the relocation intention. Findings This research identifies significant push factors, including health and mobility constraints, social isolation, home maintenance issues and lifestyle changes. Conversely, built environment and affordability, location, maintenance of existing lifestyle and familiarity act as important pull factors attracting residents to retirement villages. The inclusion of the mooring factor, representing mental well-being, enhances the explanatory power of the models, suggesting it has a moderating effect on the relationship between push-pull factors and relocation intentions. Research limitations/implications The paper provides important implications for preparing a nation that is fostering stronger mental health amongst older adults, especially countries like Malaysia, which is moving towards an increasingly ageing population. Social interaction and community engagement should not be neglected when policymakers and developers delve into spatial planning for retirement homes. Specifically, the preferred facilities included a 24-h emergency call system, access to medical facilities, space for outdoor activities and assisted living components. These findings provide foundational insights on effective policy formulation for retirement villages. Originality/value This study used the push-pull-mooring framework to better estimate the relocation intention, which helped to pinpoint factors compelling individuals to plan for their retirement residence. The outcomes of this research provided more targeted information to policymakers and stakeholders in providing comprehensive healthcare services in retirement villages that address the elderly’s social and psychological needs. In addition, through the moderating effect, the study confirmed the importance of mental well-being.