Retirees are reaping the benefits of books for free in Harleston 

Homeowners at Waveney Place, a Retirement Living community in Harleston, Norfolk have set up a dedicated book shelf in the reception area where book lovers from inside and outside the development are welcome to exchange books for free. 

In addition to promoting sustainability, the book swap aims to encourage locals and homeowners to share their love of reading, discover exciting new books and bolster the sense of community in Harleston and at Waveney Place.  

Hobbies, such as reading, can have a significant positive effect on the wellbeing of older people. In fact, participating in hobbies has been linked to lower levels of depression, higher life satisfaction, happiness, and self-reported health in people aged 65 and over.  Reading is also known to increase happiness and empathy as well as reducing the risk of memory decline.

David Meachem, Divisional Sales Director at McCarthy Stone, says, “At McCarthy Stone, the happiness and welfare of older people is at the heart of everything we do, therefore, we’re always looking for new ways to support this. Diving into the pages of a new book can do more than boost your imagination. It can help keep the mind alert, increase empathy, enhance social, mental and emotional wellbeing and develop resilience, especially in older age.”

“What’s more, according to Age UK, 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely and initiatives like this can help stave off feelings of loneliness by stimulating social interaction and uncovering new passions and interests.   

“The book swap is not only a great way to bring the Harleston community closer together, but to also encourage visitors to recycle any unwanted books and give them a second life for someone new to discover. We’re looking forward to hearing the various conversations about what people have read and seeing new friendships flourish right here at Waveney Place.”  
 
Book swap times are Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm. Users are allowed one book per swap.  

Hobbies are central to our McCarthy Stone communities

McCarthy Stone retirement communities provide the perfect base for retirement hobbies with new friends. Our communal facilities soon blossom into social hubs—a hive of informal gatherings and regular clubs and events to suit all interests. Some developments offer arts and craft rooms and sports facilities too. And with options in sought-after locations across the UK, from our retirement villages with bungalows to independent living in an attractive Retirement Living apartment or the added reassurance of Retirement Living PLUS, you’re bound to find the right property for your retirement dreams.

Got a question? We’d love to hear from you. Send us a message online or call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 today.