Retirement Living is a lifeline for Veronica
For 64-year-old Veronica, who lives with multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair, her move to a McCarthy & Stone Retirement Living community has proved to be the perfect solution to a difficult situation after the sad death of her husband.
She was married to her childhood sweetheart, Melvyn, for 44 years. He was also her full-time carer until he passed away last year. Without him Veronica not only felt unsafe in a that was home too big for her, but she felt lonely too. Having never lived alone, Veronica took the plunge to downsize to Centenary Place in Southend-on-Sea – and hasn’t looked back.
“I knew my life had to change after the loss of Melvyn. But thanks to McCarthy & Stone, I’ve been able to keep a sense of freedom. When I’m not enjoying the weekly keep fit class or bi-weekly Friday night takeaway get together, I’m often out and about visiting friends at the local church’s coffee mornings.”
Veronica adds that the communal lounge is the beating heart of the development and has been a real lifeline. It’s a place where the homeowners can meet up for a coffee and a chat and take part in activities if they wish. Veronica says the array of activities, which includes carpet bowls, music mornings and movie evenings galore, mean that she feels part of a sociable community.
"I feel right at home – the first day I moved in, I sat in my chair while my children helped me move in and I said ‘yes, this is home, I’m very comfortable here.’ I wouldn’t change a thing – I’d make the move again in a heartbeat. You don't have the chance to be lonely, there's always something going on or someone to talk to. I know my husband would be very happy to see me here."
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.
- Facts and Statistics | Campaign to End Loneliness
- Measuring_the_Wellbeing_and_Fiscal_Impacts_of_Housing_for_Older_People.pdf
