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Love stories from our villages
Thursday, 13 February 2025
In our villages, we’ve seen how life’s later chapters can hold some of the most touching and inspiring love stories.
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and sometimes, love finds us when we least expect it. Here’s the thing about love — it doesn’t come with a handbook. From chance meetings to deep, enduring connections, the residents' stories from our villages remind us that love doesn’t have an age limit either.
Love has a way of surprising us, delighting us and proving that the next great romance could be just around the corner. Whether it’s the quiet companionship that grows over shared moments, the exciting spark of a new connection or the kind of love that leads to walking down the aisle, these residents show us that it’s never too late to open your heart and take a chance on happiness.
Sharing love over food and wine
For George and Pam, love found them through shared interests and a community that helped heal old wounds. After losing their respective spouses, both found solace and connection in the charming village of Evelyn Ridge. George moved to the village in 2020, drawn by the charm of the Yarra Valley and its proximity to his children, after the heartbreaking loss of his wife. Pam, who had been part of the community for years, had also experienced the pain of losing her beloved husband, Alan.
Their paths crossed through a shared love of food, wine and community events. Both discovered they had far more in common than just their hobbies — they shared a mutual understanding of grief and a readiness to embrace life again. With time and thoughtful discernment, George and Pam found not just companionship but a new chapter of love.
Finding love again
Tony and Janne’s love story is a reminder that love can bloom when you least expect it and that a caring community can play a big part in bringing people together. After caring for his late wife Sue through the final stages of a serious illness, Tony found support and comfort from his neighbours at Elliot Gardens. Meanwhile, Janne, who had been part of the community for five years, often crossed paths with Tony at gym classes. Their conversations were friendly and casual — until one Christmas breakfast changed everything.
Before long, Janne and Tony became inseparable, sharing a love for dining out, traveling overseas and spoiling Jack, Tony’s Lhasa Apso. When the time came for Janne to move into Tony’s Regent-style villa, it was evident that they were meant to be.
Love and romance at any age
It’s never too late for romance and intimate relationships bring incredible benefits to your wellbeing. Whether you’re in a lifelong partnership or exploring love later in life, companionship and connection are key to happiness.
Research shows that Australians over 76 have some of the highest wellbeing scores, with intimacy playing a vital role. At this stage of life, romance often revolves around shared experiences, travel and simply enjoying each other’s company. Studies confirm that physical closeness and affection remain important, with many maintaining intimate thoughts and feelings well into their 90s.
For those seeking love, it’s easier than ever to meet new partners, thanks to online dating platforms tailored for older adults and social events within retirement communities. The goal is always the same - to feel authentic connection and joy.
Pearls of wisdom from residents
At our retirement villages, love is truly timeless. The residents have shared their insights into what makes love last, offering advice rooted in their years of experience.
With anniversaries ranging from a few years to over seven decades, these residents prove that love is a journey worth taking at any age. From patience and communication to mutual respect and humour, their wisdom is invaluable.
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.
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