A New Lease of Life: Meet Bridget

Loneliness is an increasingly common issue among older adults but communal living in retirement villages is proving to be a powerful antidote offering connection, safety, and a renewed sense of purpose.

ExtraCare’s resident Bridget, is one example of someone who has embraced community in later life. She’s lived at Sunley Court for nearly two years and calls the move “the best thing I ever did.”

The Power of Community

Communal living in IRC’s like those at ExtraCare aren’t about giving up independence, they’re about gaining a community. Residents live in their own apartments but have shared spaces, communal activities, and staff support available whenever it’s needed. For Bridget it has meant the difference between loneliness and a renewed sense of community. “I love life at Sunley Court. I love the friendship, and I feel safe—there’s always somebody there. I’ve made so many new friends, and now even three of my friends from outside are moving in because I told them how much I love it!”.

Bridget spends her time leading craft classes, participating in community events, and even hosting “fridge raids” with neighbours where everyone brings surprise food for a communal evening picnic. There’s laughter, creativity, and most importantly connection. “It’s just lovely and everybody joins in… There’s loads to look forward to.”

Safety and Peace of Mind

Bridget says “since I’ve been on my own, I’ve never felt this safe ever. When I fell and broke my nose, the team at Sunley really looked after me.” And the benefits aren’t just felt by residents, but by families too. Bridget’s daughter Alyson describes the transition from a family’s point of view: “Mum was widowed ten years ago and doing less and less at home. Just two days after moving in, she called and said, ‘This was the best thing I’ve ever done—I wish I’d done it five years ago. Knowing she’s safe, warm, and surrounded by people makes a huge difference. We don’t worry anymore—she has a new lease on life.”

Independence with Support

One of the biggest misconceptions about IRC’s is that they’re restrictive or like care homes. But as Bridget and her daughter emphasize, that couldn’t be further from the truth. “It’s not like an old people’s home. It doesn’t feel like that at all. You have all the benefits of support, but you’re living in your own independent space.”

Bridget even talks about working on the garden, enjoying her private view, and having meals cooked for her if she chooses. “There’s a network of people here—we’re very welcoming to new people. We make them feel less alone.”

A Simple, Life-Changing Move

The decision to move into a retirement village isn’t always easy but for many families, it turns out to be a turning point. As Bridget’s daughter Corynda puts it: “At first, we felt guilty about encouraging the move. But now, it’s the best feeling to know she’s safe and happy. It was such an easy transition, and she’s taken to it like a duck to water.”

For those battling loneliness or concerned about growing older in isolation, communal living in a retirement village can be transformative. With opportunities for connection, the comfort of security, and the joy of shared experiences, it offers more than just a place to live—it offers a community to belong to. As Bridget says, “You’re getting older, and it’s so nice to be settled in your old age. I know I’m here till my time’s up and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Explore more about Sunley Court or take a look at our other locations and discover a great new way of living.