Michael beats loneliness in retirement

Retirement Living has helped Michael regain a sense of purpose

75-year-old Michael found himself feeling lonely and isolated in his family home after his wife died in 2023. But his decision to downsize to a Retirement Living Plus development – Peel Court in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, and throw himself into supporting both his fellow homeowners and the wider community, changed his life. The move has given him a renewed sense of purpose and some lovely new friends.

He says, “As one of the few homeowners with a car, I often volunteer to provide transport to others living at the development for things such as medical appointments. I also actively volunteer to deliver collected supplies to a local homeless shelter on behalf of Peel Court.”

The sense of community that he found at the development has made a significant impact on Michael's life. "The difference living here is I can sit in my apartment if I choose, to watch television or read. But if I want some company, I just go down to the communal lounge, and there are invariably people there. It's so nice that I can be as quiet or as social as I like throughout the day.”

It’s good to talk about how you feel

Michael has also found solace in the open and honest conversations he shares with his fellow homeowners. He believes that being able to speak so freely about his experiences, particularly the loss of his wife, has significantly helped to alleviate his loneliness. 

Could retirement living be the answer to loneliness in old age?

Studies show that loneliness poses significant health risks and increases the likelihood of early mortality by 26%¹ - and it can be particularly challenging for older people to make new connections. But there is a solution. The latest Government research² shows that living in a retirement community improves happiness, wellbeing and satisfaction – something that is echoed by over 80% of McCarthy & Stone homeowners who say they feel part of a vibrant community. Less than half of 65-year-olds who are not in retirement communities feel the same way. 

Find a friendly community with McCarthy & Stone

From independent living retirement property for over 60s, to assisted living at our Retirement Living PLUS apartments for over 70s, our lovely properties in stunning locations are thoughtfully designed so you can make the most of your retirement whether you’re just over 60 or heading for 100 – and you’ll have a lively community of new neighbours on the doorstep too.

Browse our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.