Loneliness is now widely recognised as a major issue in society which can severely impact health, well-being and confidence
Research has shown that social isolation or loneliness in older adults is associated with a 50 per cent increased risk of developing dementia, a 30 per cent increased risk of coronary artery disease or stroke, and a 26 per cent increased risk of all-cause mortality.
According to the charity Age UK an incredible 1.4 million older people are often lonely.
Of course there is a big difference between being lonely and being alone. And no retirement operator understands that better than Beechcroft, which designs retirement developments for those who want to live independently but feel connected to the wider community.
Beechcroft has been building developments in Oxfordshire, Kent, Surrey, Hertfordshire and Berkshire for the past 40 years, and has more on the way. They are the experts when it comes to understanding what it takes to create happy communities of like-minded downsizers, who don’t want to be burdened with expensive monthly charges and exit fees.
Beechcroft only builds in carefully, chosen locations, such as delightful market towns with lots of restaurants and leisure facilities nearby, and charming areas that offer a blend of town and country.
There’s little chance of feeling lonely or isolated when you have wonderful facilities on your doorstep; a full programme of social activities and dedicated staff to pamper you.
“The staff here are really friendly and helpful, including the site staff and the Estate Manager,” declares Anne Inglis who has recently moved into a two-bed ground-floor apartment at Beechcroft’s Pinewood Place, a gated community near Windsor in Berkshire.
“Having an Estate Manager is a good idea when growing older,” she adds. “It means there’s a point of contact and someone to help when you need a hand with something.
“There’s a great sense of community here too. I met my neighbours at a recent garden party and some of us got together for drinks afterwards.”
Being close to vibrant towns ensures those living in retirement developments feel connected to the wider world in ways you may not have imagined.
There is having the chance to sing in a choir, perform with an amateur drama group and even become a volunteer helping in schools, assisting in libraries, working for a local charity and even sitting on a parish council.
“If I was giving someone tips on moving in retirement, I would say location is very important,” adds Anne. “Of course, Windsor is a lovely place to live – there’s so much to see and do and places to pop in for coffee and cake.
Anne may live alone but she is anything but lonely. She attends the local branch of the U3A, convenes ‘French for Improvers’ sessions and is also a member of a book group.
She also sings in a Rock Choir which meets in Windsor on a Tuesday morning, and even has time to enjoy amateur dramatics. She recently performed and directed a local production of Noel Coward’s Blythe Spirit.
Living in a stylish Beechcroft gated community in a sought-after part of the country also offers peace of mind when it comes to safety and security.
This is particularly important to those who are single or have found themselves alone through divorce or widowhood.
It can be difficult adjusting to life alone if you have had a long, happy marriage.
Suddenly the home you shared with a loved one that used to ring with fun and laughter is quiet and empty.
Rather than rattle around wondering how you will manage and fearing that every creak and noise is someone trying to break in, why not think about moving to a Beechcroft retirement community where you can feel safe, reboot your later life, make new friends, and pursue new interests.
