The benefits of rightsizing in later life

According to a poll of over 2,000 people over the age of 55, conducted by Pegasus*, it was revealed that 50% of retirees intend to stay in their current home with 37% citing the hassle of moving and finding the right place as their main reason for not downsizing.

For many people approaching retirement, moving home can often be seen as a downsizing dilemma and a sacrifice on space, less possessions, and a step back. But for many, downsizing can mean the opposite: gaining independence, peace of mind and a home that finally works for life in retirement.

For one lady, Pam Richardson (58yrs) who had been renting a large bungalow in Exeter, but living with a neurological condition, the property had become increasingly difficult to manage, and she knew something needed to change for her to fully enjoy her retirement years. Pam says: “I loved my spacious home, but it was too big and no longer suited what I needed day to day.”

Pam needed an accessible, manageable home that could accommodate her wheelchair, her Cocker Spaniel assistance dog Bertie, and offer reassurance that help would be nearby if required.

She found it at Orcombe Court in Exmouth, a retirement community, where she rents an apartment through retirement rental specialists, My Future Living.

Her spacious one-bedroom apartment offers step-free access, generous living space and a welcoming environment for Bertie. But just as important as the physical layout was the sense of community.

Pam comments: “By my second day, people were inviting me for tea. It feels like a little village. Everyone has their own space, but you’re never on your own.”

Pam values the 24-hour Careline and supportive house manager on site who regularly checks in on residents as these give her peace of mind. She says: “There’s an ‘all ok’ button I press every day to let them know I’m fine. It’s such a reassuring safety net.”

She also enjoys the many social activities, from quiz nights to exercise classes, as they offer the opportunity for socialising and making friends without pressure.

Financially, downsizing has also brought benefits. With maintenance included in the rent and more predictable monthly costs, Pam can now plan ahead without worrying about unexpected bills.

Since renting at Orcombe Court, Pam has built a fulfilling new life. She has joined a local church, participates in communal activities, has started learning bridge. She attends the weekly ‘sundowners’ for drinks and a chat with the neighbours and can get out and about easily, with everything conveniently on her doorstep. Her apartment offers plenty of space for her wheelchair, and her assistance dog, Bertie, is warmly welcomed. “Everyone loves Bertie,” Pam says, “and people often take him out for walks for me if I’m not having a good day.”

Joanne Couch, Director of Finance and Operations comments: ““While downsizing can feel like a big step, people who take the leap, like Pam, often find it transformative. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution in this important life transition, which is why having a mix of housing options, including later-living communities, is so valuable. The right home can support practical needs, social connections, and overall wellbeing, helping people thrive in the next chapter of their lives.”

Pam concludes: “Moving here was the best thing I could have done. I realise now that downsizing wasn’t about losing anything, it was about finding a home that fits my life.”

To find out more about renting a home in a retirement development visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk