Wadswick Green – Retirement Village Q&A

Q&A with Angela McKimmie – Sales and Marketing Director at Rangeford Villages

Who can live there?

We welcome anyone aged 60 and over. Pets are welcome as well!

What kind of facilities do you offer?

We have a swimming pool complete with Jacuzzi and sauna, a fully equipped gym, a beauty spa, and a hair salon all onsite. We also have a popular restaurant which is open to the public called The Greenhouse. Outside, there are beautiful landscape grounds, croquet lawn and allotments.

Any activities that are particularly popular? (anything quirky, interesting – do tell us!)

Our active owners take part in all sorts of activities including painting, walking and aerobics – we also offer trendy activities such as Zumba Classes, or Quigong (a gentle health exercise).

What support do owners and their families get?

We can help owners on all aspects of everyday life: this can include transport, housekeeping, posting letters and regular deliveries from local shops. We also offer onsite care support via our Rangeford Care service for those who need it.

Many people are resistant towards going into a retirement village – what are the fears that some people have and what do you do to reassure them?

Some retirees fear having to change their lifestyle and losing their independence. All the properties are sold on a “Lock up and Leave” basis with their own address and front door, which allows owners to live just as before – only with extra support available should they need it.

Loneliness among the older generation is well documented. What do you do to combat this?

It’s very important that owners don’t feel isolated but are instead part of the local community. As well as having a wide choice of social activities to join in, owners really like that The Greenhouse restaurant is popular with both owners and locals, for example. They can also host friends and family anytime they wish using the guest suite and stay in touch with their loved ones.

How have owners homes changed in the last few years?

Retirement homes are now very modern and feature high quality fittings. Our Almond Close apartments boast brand new Neff appliances in the kitchen, for example, with a contemporary design complete with engineered, high-quality hardwood flooring and modern furniture.

What’s the best feedback you get from your owners?

Many owners have more peace of mind because they know we are onsite and can provide support. We also often hear that they feel less isolated at Wadswick Green and find themselves feeling much better and fitter in this new environment – which is always a pleasure to hear.