Living independently helps you live longer

Ivy Grimsteed, a resident at our Sandhurst development, recently turned 100 years old, and she credits her longevity to her independence.

“I don’t want to be a burden to anyone.” Ivy makes it clear that even at her age she feels fully capable of doing most things on her own, however plenty of other residents at Sandhurst do drop in regularly to check up on her.

Ivy was windowed over 25 years ago, and has been fiercely independent her whole life. Having moved to Sandhurst over three years ago, she does however join her fellow residents in various activities. The on-site Lifehost remarked that Ms Grimsteed is very well liked in the community.

But Ivy’s favourite thing about the community is that she doesn’t need to rely on her new friends; she cooks and cleans for herself the majority of the time, and doesn’t require a carer. “I think that the key to living to my age is eating healthy, and cooking!” And when she is feeling sociable, she can simply check what events are being run each week, like chair yoga and coffee mornings, and head to the communal lounge to join in.

Independent living at Sandhurst is designed in line with all Pegasus developments to make residents' lives easier, without asking them to give up their independence. An on-site Lifehost is the first point of contact for any maintenance, and organises fun events and activities for the residents on a weekly basis. Residents also have peace of mind with gated parking, a video door entry system, CCTV and a 24-hour emergency call system, plus wearable alarm buttons.

Residents are still able to enjoy the privacy of their own home, and live as independently as they wish to, with the option for help if it’s needed. Social activities lead to many older adults finding they are more active and social in our developments than they would be if they lived in their family home.

Despite being a very self-sufficient woman, Ivy did originally move to Sandhurst from Devon to be closer to her daughter and family friends. The move has been positive for her as now she gets to spend more time with them, and she cherishes the chance to be more involved in their lives. She has also fallen in love with the local Sandhurst area, as it has plenty of amenities while keeping a cultural feel. Sandhurst has some wonderful museums and independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as acres of stunning parkland.