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When Carole began thinking about moving to Richmond Villages Letcombe Regis, she was caring for her husband, who was totally blind, and considering what the future might hold. With her son David and daughter-in-law already living nearby, the area was already familiar to her, and she had spent many enjoyable hours walking the local footpaths and exploring the surrounding countryside. 

As she started looking at her options, a visit to Letcombe Regis gave her a completely different perspective on later life. 

"I suddenly saw a whole new lifestyle," says Carole. "Instead of thinking I was going to sit in an old people's home with the television talking to itself, I could see something completely different." 

Today, Carole's weeks are filled with exercise classes, swimming, social events, choir rehearsals, outings with friends and regular family visits. Looking back, she describes her move in just two words: "Life-changing." 

Close to Family, Connected to Community 

One of the biggest attractions of Letcombe Regis was its location. Having her son and daughter-in-law living nearby was a major factor in her decision to move, giving her the reassurance of having family close at hand while maintaining her independence. 

“Proximity to my son was a major part of my decision,” says Carole. “We can pop in to see each other more easily than when we lived 70 miles apart. We go to concerts and local events, and they have met some of my friends at Richmond Villages. They are delighted I have settled in so well and feel they can even go on holiday without me as they know I will be cared for by Richmond Villages’ staff should I need help.” 

Having peace of mind about the future was also an important consideration. “It is reassuring that, as my needs change, I won't need to move away from friends or go through the stress of moving again,” says Carole. “Richmond Villages has various care models which should be able to accommodate whatever the future brings.” 

The village itself quickly exceeded her expectations. While she had looked at other retirement developments, it was the sense of community at Letcombe Regis that stood out. 

"I did look at other retirement complexes that are really just accommodation and a lounge, but this is the main one to have a real community." 

Living Life More Actively 

Since moving to Letcombe Regis, Carole has embraced a more active lifestyle. The village's swimming pool, gym and wellness facilities have become a regular part of her routine, helping her stay active while building friendships along the way. 

"I think it's made me fitter," she says. "Now I think I exercise in one way or another every single day." 

Having access to facilities on her doorstep has made it easy to take part, but Carole believes it's the people who make the difference. 

"I think being with a friendly group helps." 

Looking back, she never imagined she'd be enjoying such an active lifestyle. 

"If somebody had told me a few years ago I'd be swimming, exercising and enjoying three classes a week, I wouldn't have thought it was viable." 

Friendship and New Experiences 

The friendships Carole has made since moving have been one of the most rewarding parts of village life. Shortly after arriving, she met another resident on a bench while walking in the nature reserve. 

"I said, 'Are you happy just reading your book or would you like some company?'" 

That conversation became the start of a close friendship, and over time Carole's circle of friends has continued to grow. 

"For some reason, we just hit it off. She's become a very good friend." 

Those friendships have encouraged her to try new things too, including joining a choir. 

"Without them encouraging me, I probably wouldn't have done it." 

There are so many different types of groups and activities. You can learn to play bridge, improve your arts and crafts skills, try various sports, join discussion groups to keep your mind active, see a film or simply enjoy listening to music. Carole also loves joining the village's weekly trips to visit local National Trust properties and other places of interest. But if you just feel like relaxing, that's OK as well. 

A Place Where People Care 

From entertainment evenings to outings and village events, there is always something happening at Letcombe Regis. Carole particularly enjoys seeing staff and residents come together for celebrations. 

"I like the evening entertainment, particularly because the staff come. It makes you feel that all the staff are part of your life." 

For Carole, that's what makes the village so special. It's a place where friendships flourish and where residents can continue living life their own way. 

If she had to describe life at Richmond Villages Letcombe Regis in one sentence, her answer is simple: 

"It's supportive and friendly and has everything you would need in later life."