Around one in four New Zealanders will, within the next thirty years, be of retirement age, with many looking to make the decision to move to a retirement village or care home to suit their needs. We ask Roy why he made the decision to live in Bupa Northhaven Village, Whangaparaoa.
Roy Bycroft, 91 years of age (92 in October) moved to Bupa Northhaven Village in Whangaparaoa two years ago. He, along with the 33 other residents, has taken to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the village.
"When I decided to move to the Northhaven Village, there were a few deciding factors," he says. "I liked the size of the village: it is small and friendly, which suits me perfectly. I also found the manager to be open, honest and very helpful and friendly. He helped me make the right decision for my needs.
"I initially moved here as I'd suffered a heart attack. My wife Edna had been suffering from a long-term illness, so we wanted to be somewhere where I could look after her, but also call on medical help if necessary. Sadly, my wife died last year. I'm comforted though, that her last few years were made comfortable and happy, due to our living in the retirement village. She certainly got a new lease of life during her last few years."
It was also comforting that Bupa Northhaven Retirement Village is located beside a Bupa care home so when Edna moved into the care home Roy could still be close by and was able to visit her easily.
"'I've made some very good friends since I moved here. Making the move may be a difficult decision to make, but for us, it was a change for the better. I love the company of the village - it's wonderful to have so many friends nearby.
"I've also loved being able to indulge my hobbies. I am a keen gardener, and have established a vegetable garden, where I grow some of my own fresh vegetables. Living in the retirement village has also allowed me to spend as much time as I like in the residents' workshop - I'm a wood turner. It's been lovely to have the time and space to enjoy my passions once more."
Making the decision to move to a retirement village is a serious one, and there are many things to consider. Talking to the retirement village manager and some of the other residents can help you make an informed decision.
For more information on Bupa and our range of services, including care homes and medical alarms, visit www.bupa.co.nz