I don't know how they'd work in the U.K., but I know they're gaining some traction in the U.S. In fact a friend of mine has done quite a bit of research on these types of communities.
I'm kind of an independent free spirit, so I don't think this kind of a life is for me. But who knows how I'll feel about it in about 10 years. I might be more ready for the security and ease that these types of communities provide. One thing I would like about it is being able to take classes at the University.
I think there should be more opportunity for us to 'audit' university classes at minimal cost; we don't submit essays but attend lectures. Its something I'd like to discuss with my local university. I'm like you, independent free spirit so don't want to be in a formal community, now! all could change
I’m 76, widow & live comfortably in a small terraced house in a village (no shops) still have a car. I like the fact that I live on the through road & see people passing, some traffic at times, dog walkers. runners, horses! Would hate to be in a cul-de-sac or ‘sheltered community’.
I’m fortunate & have everything I need. I’ve tried to move to the city - Leicester - which I love and where my interests take me - but couldn’t find just the right place. Other older people don’t understand why I even tried and usually say they hate the city - but I am not really interested in village life - coffee mornings etc. So the university idea is very appealing if accommodation could be made suitable and attractive/affordable.
Hi Wendy, thanks for sharing your situation. I live in a 3rd floor flat and, similar to you, love sitting on my balcony watching people walk by. How come you didn't find the right place in Leicester. I wouldnt want a retirement flat, nor a terraced house with steep stairs so, as i wanted to be close to the centre of Cheltenham the position of my flat is ideal. This is definitely an idea I want to explore further, Id like to talk with my local university about how older people could attend classes on an audit basis, so we dont submit essays but could contribute to discussions.
I did find the perfect flat but there were unresolved cladding issues. My solicitor battled over it for a very long time! I was devastated & my buyers & the flat sellers all let down! Other lovely apartments had no outlook/balcony. At least I now know what my requirements are! I still might try again, not the same here as being in the thick of things as I’d like - but even when I no longer drive it’s 15 mins in an Uber to city. Still keeping my eyes open though. Lovely to chat - we have just the same ideas about this - and I’ve spent a long time thinking about it!
I don't know how they'd work in the U.K., but I know they're gaining some traction in the U.S. In fact a friend of mine has done quite a bit of research on these types of communities.
I'm kind of an independent free spirit, so I don't think this kind of a life is for me. But who knows how I'll feel about it in about 10 years. I might be more ready for the security and ease that these types of communities provide. One thing I would like about it is being able to take classes at the University.
I think there should be more opportunity for us to 'audit' university classes at minimal cost; we don't submit essays but attend lectures. Its something I'd like to discuss with my local university. I'm like you, independent free spirit so don't want to be in a formal community, now! all could change
Many states in the U.S. allow older adults to attend classes for free. In some states, they even allow you to get college credit.
That's interesting, it doesn't happen here in the UK
I’m 76, widow & live comfortably in a small terraced house in a village (no shops) still have a car. I like the fact that I live on the through road & see people passing, some traffic at times, dog walkers. runners, horses! Would hate to be in a cul-de-sac or ‘sheltered community’.
I’m fortunate & have everything I need. I’ve tried to move to the city - Leicester - which I love and where my interests take me - but couldn’t find just the right place. Other older people don’t understand why I even tried and usually say they hate the city - but I am not really interested in village life - coffee mornings etc. So the university idea is very appealing if accommodation could be made suitable and attractive/affordable.
Hi Wendy, thanks for sharing your situation. I live in a 3rd floor flat and, similar to you, love sitting on my balcony watching people walk by. How come you didn't find the right place in Leicester. I wouldnt want a retirement flat, nor a terraced house with steep stairs so, as i wanted to be close to the centre of Cheltenham the position of my flat is ideal. This is definitely an idea I want to explore further, Id like to talk with my local university about how older people could attend classes on an audit basis, so we dont submit essays but could contribute to discussions.
I did find the perfect flat but there were unresolved cladding issues. My solicitor battled over it for a very long time! I was devastated & my buyers & the flat sellers all let down! Other lovely apartments had no outlook/balcony. At least I now know what my requirements are! I still might try again, not the same here as being in the thick of things as I’d like - but even when I no longer drive it’s 15 mins in an Uber to city. Still keeping my eyes open though. Lovely to chat - we have just the same ideas about this - and I’ve spent a long time thinking about it!