A Sunday drive that changed our lives!
Radha and I were too ready ourselves for a Sunday drive. Nothing unusual about that. Destination undisclosed. About half-an-hour later, we found ourselves pulling up in front of white gates, the legend Lonehill Manor Retirement Estate on the wall. The first stirrings of uneasiness assailed us. The word “Manor” evoked visions of a large estate with a callous Lord in charge. We entered a sweeping driveway. We were met at the entrance by Natasha and a few members of the staff with broad smiles and a gushing welcome. Seated at the entrance was Ange.
A carefully orchestrated maneuver
To our utter surprise, the rest of the family converged on the place, and then the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. This was a carefully orchestrated maneuver. We were shown around and were quite impressed with the general layout of the property with its well-tended gardens and the profusion of trees with brick-paved walkways.
And then came the punchline: how would we like to spend our retirement here? No compulsion, it was entirely our decision. At this stage, we felt we would have been disappointed if the question had not been asked of us. A few words on the side with Radha, and we both looked in full agreement, and said so. We were told not to rush into it, seeing that nothing they could say would make us change our minds.
What was our next steps?
We were hugely impressed with the options that were given to us: the assisted living / frail care facilities, and the independent units. The residents are friendly, and we live as a community. There are many activities organised, set out in a monthly planner to keep us socially and intellectually engaged, and a fairly well-stocked library, and a heated indoor swimming pool. The most important aspect is the love and care shown by the caregivers 24 hours a day. Your absolute comfort is their concern, you can rest assured that your loved one will be well-looked after. Radha and I have been living here for about a year and 4 months and have no intention of leaving.
No regrets – just gratitude!
Thank you, family, for showing us that you care by leaving us in a secure environment. Now, both of us can lead the lives best suited to our different needs. It is truly a home from home where visiting is allowed daily.
