08
My wife Joan, my lifetime companion of almost 60
years, knew what it took to make a house a home. Life
with her was full of comfort and joy, and although she
had a faulty heart, nothing stopped her from being
a wonderful and devoted wife. Despite her health
complications she was always there for me, looking
after my interests and wellbeing. A few years before
Joan passed away, I took over all of the household
duties, thinking that when she left, I would be
prepared. How wrong I was.
Joan and I had lived in the same house in Heathmont
for over 30 years and were lucky to have caring
neighbours. There was no end to the efforts people
made to invite me for meals and out in the evenings,
but at the end of it all, I found it difficult to return
home – without Joan it wasn’t the same.
I had many things to keep me occupied – I was on
the committee of two camera clubs, involved in a
charitable organisation called Heartbeat Hepworth
and loved gardening – but without Joan to chat to, and
admire the flowers growing in the garden, I soon
lost interest.
So what changed? Five years ago, I heard that
Meadowvale had Serviced Apartments available. I
immediately placed my deposit on one of them, and
while it was a big decision to move into a retirement
village, it’s one I’m relieved I made. Of course, it wasn’t
all smooth sailing. There’s no denying that selling a
house – and downsizing 60 years of accumulated
possessions – can be stressful, but since I moved to
Meadowvale, I’ve never looked back.
I used to often wonder why residents of retirement
villages decide to downsize, sell their homes and move
into a community like Meadowvale. There are no doubt
hundreds of people with just as many reasons, all with
their own stories and experiences. For me, it’s the fact
that I’m never alone. There are always people around
to chat to and someone to sit with in the dining room
at meal times. I will always miss Joan, but I no longer
feel lonely. I have so many friends here that there’s a
constant sense of belonging. I’m pleased to say that
once again, I’m enjoying all that life has to offer and
focussing back on my interests and passions.
“There’s a wonderful sense of belonging”
When Matt Moore lost his beloved wife, he felt lost and alone. But since
moving into Meadowvale, he’s become part of a welcoming community who
ensure he has many reasons to smile again.
Our Resident stories
