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Why residents say, ‘I should’ve done it sooner!’

Tuesday, 19 September 2023

Wondering about the best time to move into retirement living? Our residents say you should start enjoying the benefits now!

You can’t accuse Jill and Ross of procrastinating over big decisions. Within 2 weeks of their first date, the pair got engaged, and now they've been married for more than 50 years.

It was the same with their retirement home. By the time they walked from the entrance of the apartment at Nelsons Grove to the balcony, they agreed they'd found their new home.

More than 11 years later, the couple hasn't regretted their choice for a second. In fact, Jill says it's, ‘the best move they ever made.’

"...it was the best move we ever made."

Less maintenance, more living

Jill and Ross were in their early 60s when they made the move to the village. When asked what sparked their decision, a trip across the Nullarbor Plain was the answer. They were both retired and enjoying adventuring around Australia in their caravan.

On a trip back from visiting their son and his family in Western Australia, they were lamenting the state of the lawn that would greet them on their return. Jill suggested perhaps it was time for an apartment, which would need less maintenance.

Ross wasn't so sure, but Jill persisted, suggesting they look at an over-55s complex.

Jill stands in a modern white kitchen, cutting limes on a wooden cutting board.

The kitchen in Jill and Ross’ Nelson Grove apartment is light, bright and modern.

Nelsons Grove was meant to be

Finding Nelsons Grove happened by accident. They were in the area too early for a pre-arranged catch-up with friends at the local golf course.

On the off chance they could look at an apartment, they called reception. It was late in the day, but manager Lyn was more than happy to show them through. The rest is history.

Was it difficult to pack up and leave the family home?

Ross' job as a civil engineer in local government had seen them move often, so with 14 house moves under their belt, they had the move down-pat.

Before putting the family home on the market, they emailed their daughter in Singapore and son in Perth to explain their plan. Both children enthusiastically backed their parents' decision.

Jill is working out on an exercise bicycle and through the glass wall behind her is the community pool. Staying healthy is easy with village gym facilities and fitness activities.

We haven’t looked back!

What advice would they give to others thinking of making the move?

Jill said, ‘Don't wait until you're too old!’ They moved into the village in their early 60s and haven't looked back.

There’s a great community spirit at Nelsons Grove. It's evident in the way everyone stops to chat with Jill while sitting in the lounge. In the room off the dining area, a yoga class is in full swing.

Jill explains there are always plenty of activities and outings on offer. Residents can dip in or out as much as they like.

But as avid golfers, who first met on a golf course all those years ago, you'll usually find Jill and Ross at their favourite course. Just a stone's throw from the village.

Learn more about Nelsons Grove, NSW.

For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550, or click here to send us an online enquiry.

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