Avoid being lonely in later life

As a senior government minister urges families to help tackle loneliness in older people, retirees in Worcester are taking matters into their own hands

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has called for action to prevent loneliness in older people saying that by the end of the current parliament there will be a million more over-70 year olds, a third of them living alone.

Mr Hunt suggests families should take a more active role in caring for their older relatives and cited examples of countries where multigenerational living is more common than in the UK.

At Eastbank Court in Worcester retirees are enjoying a new lease of life in the company of like-minded individuals and, in many cases, their family members have helped them make the move.

Liz Herring, sales and marketing manager for Aspen Retirement, says: “There’s a distinct difference between living alone and being lonely, as homeowners at Eastbank Court have quickly discovered. Many decided to move here after a relative made the initial enquiry on their behalf, perhaps having recognised that mum, dad or a grandparent weren’t managing on their own as well as they used to.

“Living here is the ideal solution as people can enjoy the privacy that comes with owing your own apartment, while also being able to access hotel-style facilities, with the support of friendly staff and the friendship and company of people in a similar situation.”

Eastbank Court offers a choice of stylish, spacious one and two-bedroom apartments, with prices from £184,950.

Facilities include a lounge for socialising; a conservatory-style garden room; an activities room, licensed restaurant, piano room, library and a hair salon.

Some 90 minutes of domestic help a week is included in the service charge, which also covers buildings insurance, window cleaning and maintaining the gardens and communal areas.

There’s a manager on site and on call around the clock. Additional care such as help with getting up, bathing or going to bed is also available if required.

Located on Eastbank Drive, the development is ideally placed in a quiet residential area of Worcester. There’s a post office, shops and chemist close by; while the city centre is easily accessible by bus.

For more information call 01905 455 182 or visit www.aspenretirement.co.uk