Lynne was widowed 6 years ago after the loss of her husband Roy and moved into Derwent Court in Lancaster in August 2013.
Suffering with multiple joint arthritis and a raft of other medical problems. Lynne underwent knee replacement surgery in 2013, so needed to be on a level with no stairs. As her family all live away from the area, Lynne made the decision with the support of her daughter to move from the large family home; however, it was important to stay in the local area as Lynne also cares for her elderly Aunt. Being well connected to the motorway links was also a benefit, so she is able to visit her mother and sister in Scotland as often as she can.
Lynne immediately felt at home when she made her initial visit to the property. Being ex RAF, this was further cemented when Lynne was exiting the building and came across the signage that explained the Johnnie Johnson connection.
Lynne says, "I knew then it was destined to be”.
It’s now a lot easier for Lynne to manage household duties, there is just enough room so that the family are able to visit and stay over and this is helped further by the guest room facilities at Derwent Court.
The move was also a good one to make financially and more importantly Lynne has made some good friends, who she can rely on. As a result Lynne goes out on more trips and gets involved generally within the scheme complex as well as the activities that take place. Most recently Lynne has had involvement in organising afternoon teas to support Armed Forces Day, St David’s Day and St George’s Day. It’s important to all the residents at Derwent Court that the activities support different local and national causes such as SSAFA, Dementia UK and local hospices.
Lynne says, "The scheme has a friendly atmosphere, is secure and i'm able to go away to visit family and not feel worried about leaving my home for a longer period of time."
Lynne was considering moving into a ‘Park Home’ which consists of your own property on standalone site. A move which she is so glad she didn’t make; moving into that type of property would have left her feeling very isolated.
Lynne says, "living here gives peace of mind and security for myself, my family and my friends who know I’m happy, active and secure in the comfort of my own home."