Dear LPG,

I recently came to the conclusion that I needed to move from the home that I have lived in for over 40 years.  It was a hard choice but with the help and advice of my children the decision had been made.  There were things that needed to be done in the house that I began to need help with, and even though I lived in my own home at that time, mine had become quite a lonely existence.

As I already mentioned, it had been quite a while since I moved home, but in spite of all the negative aspects of the initial move (saying goodbye to the home that I was so used to, downsizing etc.),  I could see the positive aspects that my future in a sheltered accommodation would allow me.

It was not until I and my things had arrived at our new home that I found myself with another worry.  I found it quite daunting to be faced with a completely new set of neighbours all at the same time.  I did not really think about the prospect of being faced with having to go through the motions of making so many new friends again.

When I moved the last time I had the constant friendship of my partner who is no longer around.  I have always been one of those people who found it quite a challenge to introduce myself to a whole set of strangers. and borrowing a cup of milk from next door was never my thing.  However now, six months after the move, I am pleased to say that by attending some of the social events on offer (i.e. the weekly coffee morning or exercise session) I feel like a part of a family.

I enjoy being able to listen to my neighbours as they talk about their joys, sorrows and fears , and being able to talk about mine.  It is nice to be able to meet my neighbours’ children and family members from time to time and help them to celebrate birthdays as they help me to celebrate mine.  I really did not have anything to worry about and it is so good to be part of a community again.  My friends and family visit from time to time and when they cannot, I use letters, the telephone and emails to keep in touch with the closer neighbours of 40 years, and I have this added community to fall back on if I feel a bit down, while there are times when I am able to provide the company that some of them need. 

I just wanted to let my experience be known so that anyone who reads the contents of this site, and finds themselves in the position I did six months ago can know that living in this way can be really good for you.

KL, Forest Hill

LPG found some information for anyone considering moving to sheltered housing in the Lewisham area…

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