Retirement living gives Carole a new lease of life
‘A new lease of life’ is how daughter Emma describes her mum, Carole’s, experiences since moving into her new retirement apartment at Turner Place in Thatcham, Berkshire.After attending a Discovery Day in early 2020, Carole and her husband Malcolm had planned to downsize to this Retirement Living development for the over 60s. But then the Covid pandemic hit in March 2020 and tragically Malcolm lost his life to the disease later that year.
Emma explains: “At the time, Mum was spending more and more time looking after Dad, particularly after a back operation when he was in a lot of pain, so she couldn’t go out that much or have a great deal of time for herself.
“When Dad passed away, there was a decision to be made as to whether she would continue with the move as planned. He had said to the family just before he passed that she should do it, as it would give her the best chance of being happy.
“As a family, we all felt it would be the right thing for her, as it would give her a support network and the chance to find herself again having been a carer for so long.”
Carole took ownership of her new luxury retirement apartment at the end of October 2021 and has not looked back.
Carole said: “The flat is wonderful – warm, cosy, and safe. I immediately felt at home. I have my own space when I need it, but there is also so much going on - I have been able to try new things and make lots of new friends too.”
Carole has tried lots of new activities at Turner Place including weekly art classes, as well as joining in with the regular bingo and quiz nights, Pilates, Fish Fridays and Fizz Fridays. There’s also regular entertainment on offer, including an Elvis impersonator who’s a big hit with the homeowners. When not at social events in the communal lounge, Carole tends to her balcony garden, which she’s designed as a homage to her former large garden.
She says: “I have a lovely kitchen at the flat, but I eat out regularly at the on-site bistro too. The chef, Ella , produces lovely meals and there’s always someone to chat to. It’s really like a holiday environment here – the staff are lovely and very helpful.
“Everyone looks out for each other too, there’s a real support network on the doorstep.”
Carole used to work in Boots, before a spell as a housekeeper. Malcolm was well known locally for finding the oldest single Roman coin ever unearthed in the UK. He gave regular historical talks, was a trustee at Bluecoat School and used to go into Whitelands Park School in Thatcham where he helped children learn to read with the aid of puppets. His work resulted in a local road being named after him.
Emma Langford adds: “A lot of the family live nearby so we get in to see Mum as often as we can. However, it’s not unknown for her to put us off as she has something else in the diary!”
Carole concludes: “The passing of my husband was certainly a very sad time of my life, but I have been able to move on with the help from McCarthy Stone and the team. I’ve really found myself again and it’s been one of the best things I’ve ever done.”
If you would like to live nearer to your family, read our advice on moving closer.
Retirement Living at Turner Place gives you the best of country living on your doorstep combined with the convenience of amenities including a Waitrose, Post Office, cafes and shops in the heart of charming Thatcham. Find out more about our retirement properties or call 0800 201 4811 to book a visit to Turner Place or another community.
