Retirement living communities gift craft kits and books to boost homeowners’ wellbeing

Our residents well being

This lockdown has proved particularly difficult for our homeowners as they face the darker winter months.

Our team have put their heads together to see what we could do to help the homeowners to reduce loneliness during the lockdown before our Lifestyle Managers asked the homeowners across Vista in Parkstone, Esprit in Poole town centre, Monterey in Christchurch and Chapters in Salisbury what Covid-safe activities they would like to participate in. A vast array of artistic suggestions were put forward to benefit the homeowners’ emotional welfare while remaining safe in their own homes.

Deliveries from our Lifestyle managers

Following the feedback from the homeowners, the communities’ dedicated onsite Lifestyle Managers will collectively deliver more than 118 craft kits and 50 books over the coming weeks. The shared activities are planned to bring residents together online and over the phone, ensuring that the strong sense of community and support continues throughout the government’s continued social distancing rules.

Retirement living in a community

Each of our properties, which are suitable for people aged 55 and over, enable the homeowners to live independently in an apartment, house or cottage, which they can purchase under the government-backed shared ownership scheme. They also benefit from a dedicated onsite Lifestyle Manager, who organises activities for the homeowners, as well as providing wellbeing and practical support.

Mel Litchfield, Lifestyle Manager for Vista in Poole, said: “Our homeowners have been telling us how much they miss being able to see each other due to the lockdown restrictions, so we were keen to find other ways for them to continue to feel part of their community. It has been very difficult for them during the winter lockdowns, so they were absolutely thrilled to choose some craft kits and books that they can talk to their neighbours about, which will help them to feel less lonely.”

Through the virtual lockdown craft club, the homeowners are set to learn how to make their own soap with the aim of supporting their hand hygiene during the pandemic. Step-by-step guides for a painting-by-numbers beach scene, crossword books and a crochet for beginners set are just some more of the activities that have been supplied to enable them to enjoy some relaxation and boost their mental wellbeing.

Homeowners club

Many homeowners have also formed a virtual book club, where they will enjoy a range of books under their chosen genres of romance, action and adventure, and crime and mystery, before talking on the phone about the books they have read to share ideas.

Viewings for all properties are available through a virtual tour and in-person visits with enhanced Covid-safe measures in place for the safety of visitors, homeowners, and the team.

For more information on our communities, call 01202 088051.