People are realising that renting in retirement is the best decision they’ve ever made
In February Donald Chemney, an 89-year-old retired butcher, baker, soldier, and oil industry worker, moved into a one-bedroom property at Brook Court in Salford, Greater Manchester, which he rented through the retirement rental company, My Future Living.
Donald considers this move to be one of the best decisions he has ever made, second only to marrying his beloved wife Sheila.
A Perfect Fit
Having spent several years living in Saudi Arabia while pursuing his career, Donald knew that Salford, his home town, was where he wanted to spend his retirement.
His main motivation was to provide care for Shelia, who has dementia. However, a fall in his garden resulted in him suffering a broken thigh, rendering him unable to care for her.
Shelia moved into a nearby care home, and Donald realised he too needed to move to a more suitable property.
“I was rattling around like a pea in a can in our three-bedroom home and I knew the time had come to sell up and find somewhere smaller,” he said.
“I came across My Future Living in a newspaper advert and was immediately drawn to the development especially as it was on the very road my wife was brought up in. It felt like it was meant to be.”
Brook Court: A Welcoming Community:
When he visited Brook Court for the first time, Donald instantly fell in love with the place. Located just a 15-minute walk from his wife’s care home, it offered great convenience for his daily visits. Beyond the practicality, what truly attracted Donald was the overwhelmingly friendly atmosphere within the community.
“The flat was superb but the overwhelming friendly ambience is what really attracted me to the development. There is a friendly face, a kind word and someone to talk to every time I leave my flat,” he said.
“The social life here is great. There’s bingo, games nights, BBQ’s, coffee mornings, drinks outside and many other activities always going on. I don’t ever feel alone and when I walk out into the corridor, you are guaranteed to have a friendly greeting and a conversation with someone.”
He describes the social life at Brook Court as vibrant, with a wide range of activities. Donald no longer feels alone, as people welcome him with friendly greetings and engaging conversations.
Active Engagement and Volunteer Work:
In his spare time, Donald volunteers with the local scout group.
He proudly claims to be one of the oldest scouts around, having been involved since the age of eight. Throughout the years, he has served as a scout leader and established several scout groups. Brook Court also provides him with opportunities to pursue his love of gardening. Donald has taken on a section of the communal gardens, enriching them with colourful plants.
Financial Benefits and Freedom:
Renting a retirement property has proven to be a sound financial choice for Donald. Proceeds from the sale of his previous home now support Shelia’s care, while renting also grants him a comfortable and hassle-free retirement.
Donald is pleased he now has the freedom to enjoy life, travel, and visit his sons, including one who lives in Sydney, Australia. With funds in the bank, he eagerly is looking forward to achieving his goal for next year: a trip to visit him and meet his grandchild.
He can even afford to travel first class and get extra leg room to make the journey more comfortable.
Donald Chemney’s decision to embrace retirement renting through My Future Living has only had a positive impact on his life.
Engaging in volunteer work, tending to the communal gardens, and participating in various social activities have invigorated his retirement years. Financially, renting has also provided him with stability, allowing him to support his wife’s care and enjoy his retirement.
“At 89 years old, I love the freedom I have now and knowing I have money in the bank to be able to enjoy life and travel and visit my boys.”
To find out more about renting a home in a retirement development visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk
