Making space for men in our retirement housing
While men are often in a minority in many of our retirement communities, they’re not forgotten. It’s important that all our developments meet their needs, with clubs and groups on offer to encourage men to socialise and spaces for hobbies for retired men to enjoy.
Kim Caldwell, National Sales and Marketing Director, McCarthy Stone, says, “When it comes to offering clubs, activities and facilities to our homeowners, our aim is to foster welcoming retirement communities that meet the needs of everyone and therefore we place equal importance on all genders.”
“With latest Government research demonstrating that living in a retirement community results in improvements in happiness, wellbeing and satisfaction, our own data certainly reflects this; over 80% of McCarthy Stone homeowners say they feel part of a vibrant community, compared with only half of over 65-year-olds in mainstream accommodation, so that’s what we are focused on delivering.”
Retired men’s groups at McCarthy Stone
In fact, retired men’s groups are flourishing in many of our communities and often involve food. Meet some of the men who munch…
The Gentleman’s Breakfast Club, Knox Court
Pictured in the header, the monthly Gentlemen’s Breakfast in the bistro at Knox Court in Rugby, Warwickshire, was set up initially by the McCarthy Stone team, but eight months on it’s now totally self-sufficient with up to ten men regularly catching up over a Full English breakfast. It’s also open to men in the wider community who’d like to meet new people.
The Music and Brunch Club, Centenary Place
At Centenary Place in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, there’s a popular monthly Music and Brunch Club where men bond over food and music and forge stronger rapports. The development has plenty of other regular activities too, like lunches, art groups, papers and pastries, and walk and talks, which are open to everyone but are notably well-attended by the men in the community, many of who are widowers.
The Music and Brunch bunch, pictured L-R (starting with stripy top) Richard, Fred, Dennis, Brian and Jonathan
“Like others, I downsized after the death of my wife, and wanted to be part of a smaller group where we could easily talk about interesting topics. I knew I’d need to embrace the community here, and this group has given me companionship.”
Richard, 82
“I really enjoy listening to music, particularly from between the 1950s and 70s, as well as classical. The group is great as it means I can discover new artists, in the company of others.”
Fred, 95
“I think that living at Centenary Place has added ten years to my life thanks to all the groups we can get involved with here. Our House Manager is great at telling us what’s going on in the community, and I think it’s important for people to give things a go. I get a lot out of the monthly session – the chat, the friendship, food and music really brings a lot to my day as it keeps my mind active. I also enjoy any food related events, book club and movement sessions.”
Dennis, 97
“I get a lot from attending the music and brunch events as I really enjoy the company of other residents who like their independence but also want a bit of company, and to chew the fat. My music taste is quite eclectic – I enjoy everything from jazz through to classical, big band sounds to Larry Adler. The sessions have really enriched my life – mixing with others always leads to interesting discussions. From embracing Saturday evening socials where we get together and chat, playing games, going for walks or exercising, it’s better to try and support new ideas and keep living or you simply grow old – we’re all youngsters at heart, even if our bodies disagree.”
Brian, 83
“It’s been great to learn about other people’s music interests and see what we have in common. I also love the food as I’m housebound, so can no longer use the local cafés. I joined the group out of curiosity as it was better than sitting alone, and it’s really benefited my outlook. I also enjoy a regular exercise group.”
Jonathan, 85
Individual choice is key
Kim says, “Part of the success of creating a vibrant retirement community is down to actively encouraging a homeowner-led approach to creating groups, clubs and events that are bespoke to each development. This means individuals can choose to get involved with what’s on as much or as little as they’d like.”
Hobbies for retired men are catered for at McCarthy Stone developments
Gardening is a popular hobby with all genders, which is why many of our retirement developments offer gardening clubs, and some feature sheds and raised beds for the green-fingered to grow in. Some offer sports and fitness amenities, like carpet bowls, or storage for golf clubs. Others like The Old Market Village in Wimborne, Dorset, have snooker tables and darts boards that are open to everyone, but appeal to many men. McCarthy Stone also provides sponsorship to local Men’s Sheds groups which many of our homeowners attend.
The on-site amenities, like the shared lounges, can make socialising simpler. Kim says, “We recognise that men who have lost their partner could feel less confident when it comes to social interactions such as hosting friends and family. Our Retirement Living Plus developments offer a bistro and guest suite which means it’s easier for them to have visitors with less pressure if entertaining.”
And, it’s worth adding that McCarthy Stone homes are in carefully chosen locations close to shops and amenities which often include golf courses, bowling greens, nature walks and leisure centres, so they provide men with plenty of scope to pursue popular retirement hobbies.
Join a community-spirited retirement development near you
Whether you choose an independent living apartment with Retirement Living or opt for the added services of Retirement Living PLUS, our welcoming retirement communities host a range of informal gatherings, fitness clubs, charity fundraisers and events to suit all interests and abilities.
Learn more about our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
