FORGET MATRON and bingo – when it comes to retirement today's seniors want a lifestyle manager and a bistro.

The lifestyle manager will help them settle in, help them flog their unwanted bits and pieces on Gumtree, sort them out for a handyman and assist them with anything else they might need in their new – and very modern – homes.The bistro will be so they can meet their friends and family for dinner without the bother of cooking it themselves.

The changing face of getting on has been laid bare by a Dorset developer whose new Poole retirement flats are now firmly catering for the Mick Jagger generation who don't see why they should slow up, just because they are older.

Platinum Skies' new block, Esprit, dominates Poole's High Street North and places its residents – who must all be over the age of 55 – in the heart of the town, close to shops, restaurants and the theatre.

Along with eco-friendly flats the block also provides a communal private lounge as well as activities the residents can join if they want to.

Chief Operating Officer of Platinum Skies, David Hines said: “Older people hesitate to move into retirement communities because it can feel as though they are surrendering their lifestyle rather than enhancing it in their later years. We believe maintaining control and independence is important to everyone, regardless of age. We aim to create an environment that feels less like retirement and more of a lifestyle choice.”