Girlings’ retirement communities not only keep people safe but also promote friendships
80-year-old Jackie Corrigan (pictured above and below) moved into retirement development after the last lockdown because of the warm reception she received from other residents. She had been living in a flat in Buxton, Derbyshire when she decided it was time for a change earlier this year.
She saw an advert for Homemoss House, not too far from where she was living, where Girlings Retirement Rentals has some homes to rent.
The UK was in lockdown so she couldn’t make an appointment to view, but she decided to take a drive there to look at the exterior and noticed some residents sitting outside.
“A lovely lady called Ann spoke to me,” Jackie explains. “Although I couldn’t go in to view the apartment, Ann very kindly took me on a socially distanced tour around the grounds so I could peer through the window of the ground floor flat that was available. It was very private and at the back of the development, which looked perfect for me.”
A few weeks later, Jackie viewed the flat and moved in at the end of July.
She has quickly made friends and is looking forward to enjoying lots of social activities with them once lockdown is over.
Homemoss House
Jackie says, “I was very lonely in my last flat but since moving I’ve been much happier and I’ve made new friends. There is a communal lounge and activities such as afternoon teas, bingo and quizzes are usually organised. Covid has stopped these for the moment, but I will be joining in once they resume.”
Personal safety was also important for Jackie. “There are the many security measures in place. There’s a development manager available during the day, a 24-hour emergency Careline inside my apartment, and a pendant giving me access to emergency services. These personal safety measures gave me confidence to move here.”
Avril Sweeny
Another resident to find living in a retirement community beneficial socially, particularly during both recent lockdowns, is Avril Sweeny. Living in Poplar Court, where Girlings has rental properties, in Lytham St Annes, Avril considers herself very fortunate to have company whenever she needs it.
She also appreciates her flat’s location. “I’m lucky that I’m not yet 70 and don’t have any underlying health conditions so I was able to go out every day during lockdown,” she says.
“I have a little dog who I take out for a daily walk and I live close to the seafront, so can take a stroll along the promenade or walk into the town.
“I enjoy chatting with the neighbours in the development who I’ve become good friends with since moving in. We used to do a lot of activities together but at the moment we can only enjoy a quick chat at a distance. I’m doing a bit of gardening too in the communal garden.”
Jamie Turnbull, Business Director at Girlings Retirement Rentals says, “One of the key benefits of living in a retirement community is the social factor. As people age their friendship networks can become smaller. Moving into a retirement development can be a way to kick start their social life and give them the opportunity to meet new people.”
New research backs this up.
The Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO) recently reported a “very significant” increase in the number of older people enquiring about and moving into retirement communities – the main drivers are the desire for more company and social interaction and to live somewhere more appropriate for their age.
For anyone considering moving into a retirement community, Girlings is still able to offer socially-distanced property viewings.
They are also currently offering one month free rent for people that move into one of its selected apartments by 31st December 2020.
For more information on Girlings Retirement Rentals visit www.girlings.co.uk
