Retirement hobbies lead to new friendships in Blandford St. Mary
When Simon decided to ‘Try Before You Buy’ with a free overnight stay at Stour Gate Retirement Living community for the over 60s in Blandford St Mary, Dorset, he made friends right away, bonding over his love of card games. The experience convinced him the community was right for him and the former physics teacher moved into his retirement apartment in October 2024, setting up a weekly card club followed by a jigsaw society almost immediately.
Simon explains, “After meeting some of the homeowners when I came to stay a few months back, we bonded over card games. A few of them were interested in learning how to play Canasta, so as soon as I moved in, I set up the club and it’s been a really nice way to get to know some of my new neighbours more, with eight of us now meeting twice a week.
“Along with the cards club, I also set up a jigsaw society that is held weekly in the homeowner lounge. We all get along really well and these clubs have been a really nice way to feel welcome in the development.”
Simon’s new friendships are a welcome fresh start
Simon made the move to Stour Gate after his wife passed away. He says: “It was definitely time for me to downsize after living in my family home for the last 18 years. I feel very proud of myself to have made the move here and it was 100% the right decision for me.
“I have children and grandchildren nearby, which was another selling point. We’ve already made plans for my son and daughter-in-law to visit for Christmas and stay in my spare bedroom which is something lovely to look forward to.
“I would definitely recommend McCarthy Stone to other retirees – it’s just so comforting to know that you have this built-in community around you and our house manager Delia has been an amazing helping hand for us all.”
There are lots of retirement hobbies on offer at Stour Gate
As well as his own clubs, Simon is making the most of the other options for activities on offer in his retirement community. He says, “Once I made the move, I was determined to throw myself into the community here. I’ve gone to many clubs and classes, including art classes, film showings and exercise classes.”
As Simon understands so well, there are many benefits to getting stuck into hobbies and activities in retirement. According to one study, participating in hobbies is linked to lower levels of depression, higher life satisfaction, happiness, and self-reported health in people aged 65 and over. Initiatives like Simon’s card club and jigsaw society help to bolster the effects of hobbies and interests by encouraging new friendships, promoting physical activity and improving self-confidence.
Get stuck into retirement hobbies at a McCarthy Stone community near you
Whether you choose an independent living apartment with Retirement Living or opt for the added services of Retirement Living PLUS, our retirement communities host a range of (entirely optional) informal gatherings, arts and crafts and fitness clubs. Everyone is welcome and new friendships blossom as a result.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
