Deep roots to the garden slows 1 in 4 retirees from downsizing

Retirees take an average of approximately 3.5 years from starting to think about downsizing to taking the plunge, it has emerged.

A new study reveals that the emotional significance of starting a new chapter is largely responsible for holding the majority of older adults back (30% percent).

A further 1 in 4 (23%), said being uprooted from a much-loved garden made them stall on closing the gate and sowing fresh seeds in a new property elsewhere.

With over half (57%) expressing that gardening is one of their biggest and most therapeutic hobbies – it plays a hugely important role in the lives of retirees.

From planting seeds to creating secret gardens, a staggering 63% feel that their green spaces have played a special role in creating memories with the family, especially in creating a bond with children and grandchildren.

Acting as a unique opportunity to teach patience, kindness, where food comes from, as well as observing the many creatures that live in gardens alongside us; three-quarters (75%) of women also viewed it as an opportunity to be out in the fresh air being physically active.

One in 5 said the concern of not having this in a new property put inertia on their decision making, according to the study of 1000 UK retirees commissioned by Riverstone, a new concept in retirement living for over 65s, in London.

According to the research, over a third (37%) of those polled agreed once everything was packed, it was not as hard as they thought to walk away though.

A further 37% said they were surprised to get more use out of their new outdoor spaces after the move.
“Moving home later in life doesn’t have to mean you have to give up your love of gardening. In fact, anything but!” said Riverstone CEO, Martin Earp.

“Our study shows that an overwhelming three-quarters (77%) of retirees say their lawns and flower beds have cultivated positive mental and physical health benefits over the years. Yet – with 1 in 4 not moving because of their garden – many run the risk of leaving it too late to move and not being able to fully enjoy their outdoor space.

“To ensure longevity and continuity of a close connection with a garden even when you move, we have experts and gardeners on hand to offer support and new inspiration for private outdoor spaces.

“The abundant herb gardens, curated by Jekka McVicar VMH, and communal green spaces at Riverstone Kensington & Fulham have been designed to be an extension of your home, ready for you to use, as and when you choose, on your own, or with friends and family.
And, of course, every Riverstone apartment also comes with its own private balcony or terrace. The perfect spot to cultivate your own plants or herbs.”

Jekka McVicar, organic gardening and herb expert, author, and broadcaster – and Riverstone’s gardening partner – agrees: “There’s a social side to gardening and the great thing about Riverstone is you can create a gardening club and you can compare notes and swap seeds.

“Of course, the best thing of all is getting outside. Fresh air is essential, feeling the sun on your face.”

Riverstone’s research found that retirees go through a series of stages when contemplating later life moves, which generally follow a pattern of denial, procrastination, acceptance, and positivity.

Fear of the unknown (23%) played a huge part in the decision-making process, while 22 per cent actively stalled because of the mammoth task of decluttering. At least 1 in 5 baulked at having to fix things that had been tolerated for years.

The research comes at a time when Google Trends has witnessed a 110 percent YoY uplift (March 2023) in searches for ‘downsizing home’.

Riverstone is for the less retiring, offering 1, 2 or 3 bedroom luxury apartments for sale in Kensington and Fulham, within a vibrant community, for residents over 65. Both residences benefit from a wide range of five-star spaces including a cinema and spa, restaurant and bar, health and wellbeing support, 24/7 concierge and so much more. Riverstone also offers wider health support through their partner, The Good Care Group.

Whether you want to stay living in the same area, but are keen to “right size”, want to move closer to family – perhaps with a return to London after time in the country – or simply want a place to just lock up and leave safe in the knowledge someone is keeping an eye on your home – Riverstone has all your needs covered.

For more information, or to book a viewing please visit www.riverstoneliving.com.