If you’re thinking about downsizing, it may bring up a range of emotions. Perhaps you feel happy and excited about the idea, maybe you feel resistant, or even sad. All these feelings are natural.

Downsizing is often a practical decision that paves the way for a comfortable, secure retirement. However, the relief, excitement, and anticipation of the freedom that comes with moving to a more manageable home can be mixed with feelings of loss and fear of change.

For Ryman residents Bev and John, trust means freedom. It’s the confidence to pack up their motorhome and hit the road knowing their home is in good hands while they’re away.

“The lifestyle is just great,” says John. “We can lock up and leave, knowing everything is taken care of at home.”

It’s a freedom they’ve fully embraced since moving to Ryman’s Northwood Village.

A group of 12 mates from Ryman Healthcare’s Murray Halberg Village has really put the 'ship' into friendship by going on a cruise together.

The friends have grown close since moving into the Lynfield village several years ago, and hang out regularly at the various village events or when taking part in activities.

Says Irene: “At Happy Hour on Thursdays we always try and sit together.”

While it's normal for everyone to worry from time to time, persistent anxiety can significantly affect your physical and emotional wellbeing. Some of the stressors that trigger anxiety in older adults are commonly related to ageing, such as: 

• health issues, 
• retirement, and 
• the loss of loved ones. 

Recognising the signs and understanding what is causing your anxiety is important, as it enables you to find the right support to overcome it.

Moving into William Sanders Village provided Graham and Karrin Byrnes with the perfect chance to give back to a community that was right on their doorstep, with beloved pet Maggie being the key to their success.

The couple heard about the St John therapy pets programme not long after moving into Ryman Healthcare’s Devonport village in 2021, and now take Maggie to visit residents in the village care centre three times a week.

While it's normal for everyone to worry from time to time, persistent anxiety can significantly affect your physical and emotional wellbeing. Some of the stressors that trigger anxiety in older adults are commonly related to ageing, such as: 

• health issues, 
• retirement, and 
• the loss of loved ones. 

Recognising the signs and understanding what is causing your anxiety is important, as it enables you to find the right support to overcome it.