Happy memories combine with an exciting future for Mike
When 78 year-old Mike first moved to Medford House, in Purley, Surrey, he held a 'homecoming party' in the lounge. Why? His new home was in the exact same spot as his former family home of three decades!
“My wife and I lived at eight Woodcote Valley Road for 33 years. It was the backdrop for so many of our most treasured memories, including watching our son and daughter grow up,” he says.
“In 2012, I moved to a flat in Kenley following the sad passing of my wife. Whilst I lived there, I watched as McCarthy Stone built Medford House. I often drove past and would think to myself ‘I must call in some time to see how they’ve converted my old home’.
“I eventually plucked up the courage and met Wendy, the Sales Consultant. When I initially walked in, I was speechless. After a while of just standing there in shock, I blurted out ‘I used to live here’. Wendy must have thought I was mad,” he jokes.
For Mike, his home set the stage for some of the most significant moments in his family’s lives. He adds, “Our home was full of happy memories that I’ll cherish forever.”
Independent retirement living appealed to Mike
Keen to create new memories, Mike spoke to Wendy about how Medford House, which offers independent retirement living, exclusive to the over 60s, could help him.
“Wendy told me all about the independent lifestyle, which I was immediately sold on. I was also really excited by the prospect of joining a community of like-minded people and having more freedom. Plus, it’s handy having an array of shops nearby, along with several bus and train routes.
“I looked at several properties at Medford House, but quickly decided on one. Wendy and I discussed the flexible purchase options and how I planned to decorate and make the apartment my own, which was all very exciting. It wasn’t long before I’d made all the final adjustments, including wallpapering, turning the walk-in wardrobe into a study, and fitting the lights. I was also very impressed with the communal outdoor space, particularly the lovely patio area.”
Accessibility is high on Mike’s agenda
All McCarthy Stone homes are carefully considered and intelligently designed to make life easier for people living with mobility issues and other health concerns. This was of particular interest to Mike as his son, Gareth, uses a wheelchair.
“Before I moved in, I thought it would be a good idea for my son to visit and check out the wheelchair accessibility. The development is wheelchair friendly and has lifts to every floor, which is really useful,” says Mike.
Mike is making the most of the ‘party’ spaces
Soon after moving in, Mike threw a ‘homecoming party’ in the shared lounge. “Having opened a new chapter in my life, I was eager to celebrate. With it being close to Christmas, many people had already made plans, but we were still able to arrange a date when most people could attend. It was a great setting, as there was plenty of space for people to sit and mingle and to enjoy the food we’d prepared. There’s even a chilled wine facility, along with a fridge and microwave, so it really does have everything you could possibly need.
“My friends, Barry and Teresa, stayed the night in the on-site guest suite and said how lovely it is. It comes in ever so handy when you have overnight visitors. Teresa was a huge help at the party and did a great job of keeping the mulled wine flowing,” he chuckles.
Harnessing his love for entertaining, Mike followed up his homecoming party with another – even bigger - celebration. “What I love most about Medford House is the endless possibilities to socialise with friends and family, so after my homecoming party, I hosted a second gathering for 49 guests. It was a most enjoyable occasion with live music, delicious food catered for by a local business, and the weather was very much on our side.”
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 and charity fundraisers as well as parties.
Learn more about our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
