Jean Wray
Staying social is the key to keeping young
There are many things we can do to stay fit and healthy as we get older including exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet — but some experts now believe one of the best ways to age gracefully is to be sociable.
One lady enjoying the social side of retirement living is Jean Wray aged 77yrs who found her perfect apartment.
Last year, Jean sadly lost her husband John to Covid-19 – the couple were married for over 40 years. Four years ago they sold their home in North London and downsized to rent an apartment in Homeshore House retirement development in Seaford in East Sussex for a quieter way of life and to be close to the sea.
“We found it was a great decision to move and renting in retirement is a fantastic option. I am on an assured tenancy so I can remain here for as long as I wish, and I really enjoy this stress-free living.”
During her career, Jean had been a legal secretary and is still very active. She particularly enjoys helping organise social events for residents in the development including bingo evenings, garden centre visits, pub lunches and golden oldies film afternoons.
Jean loves to keep busy and in her spare time volunteers for two charities helping people recovering from strokes and people with sight problems.
Jean comments: “I love being part of the community and helping get those who want to socialise to get out and about. We also have a communal greenhouse where we grow and share all our produce with each other. It’s a lovely way to get out, keep busy and meet new people.”
“Homeshore House is the perfect place to live, not only because the surroundings and gardens are immaculate with trees dotted everywhere but I’ve got the beautiful South Downs on one side and the sea on the other. Right outside the development is a bus stop which means I can easily get into Brighton and Eastbourne.”
When asked about renting in retirement, Jean says: “We used to own a lovely house but maintaining it was getting harder. We also wanted to free up some money so we could help our son with a deposit for his own place. I now have a worry-free life and if something needs fixing its sorted very quickly by My Future Living which is great.”
She concludes, “When we started our search we looked around and talked to many different companies but found My Future Living the most helpful and the easiest to deal with. I would highly recommend renting in retirement. It’s a fantastic way of life without any worries. What’s not to love?”
