Adlington Life November/ December 2024 by AdlingtonRetirementLiving

ADLINGTON LIFE

Warm and welcoming - stay safe and connected this festive season

Cosy moments with friends

Get creative in the kitchen Gifting all wrapped up

Contents Welcome

As the dark nights settle in, this time of year can often bring a mix of emotions. For some, it stirs feelings of loneliness and worry, so with this edition of Adlington Life, we hope to offer a little extra warmth, inspiration, and hope as we look forward to the festive season.

Discover thoughtful gifting ideas, recipes perfect for gatherings, and party games for everyone to enjoy. We’ve also included a chat with General Manager Jane about exciting plans at The Spindles, along with inspiring stories from our homeowners. And if that’s not enough, there’s a fun quiz to test your knowledge and maybe challenge a friend or family. Let’s make the most of the season together.

Is retirement living right for me?

Our homeowners share why retirement living was right for them.

Quiz Time

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive quiz, full of seasonal fun.

Dr Ed Gladman, Chief Executive Officer

Finding comfort in community

Exploring alternatives to loneliness.

04 07 08 11 10 12 14 15

Q&A with Jane Alexander

Meet our General Manager at Menston.

Acts of kindness

Experience the joy of giving-small gestures that make a big difference.

Gifting all wrapped up

Discover perfect gifts for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones.

Tasty Nibbles

Create the perfect festive party spread with a couple of showstoppers.

Panto Season

Make this Christmas unforgettable with a panto—full of laughter, magic, and fun for all.

Celebrate time with loved ones

Scan QR code to find out more

Round up of the year 2024

So far this year we've welcomed 78 new homeowners with a luxury hamper.

Events

Coffee and Cake

Join us for coffee and cake, with festive treats December and January

The Sidings, Lytham, 11.30am Wednesday 11th December Wednesday 15th January

The Spindles, Menston, 14:00pm Tuesday 10th December Tuesday 7th January

The Newells, Kempston Friday 6th December, 11.30am Wednesday 15th January, 10:30am

Broadleaf House, Wylde Green Thursday 10th December, 12pm Thursday 23rd January 10:30am

Homeowners at our latest communities have enjoyed over 36 themed events, 74 movie nights, 806 hairdresser appointments, 89 exercise classes and 234 enjoyed a night cap meet-up, all right on their doorsteps.

Thanks to our homeowners, this year so far we have raised amazing amounts for very worthwhile charities:

- Macmillan coffee mornings raised £2,794

- Breast Cancer Awareness benefited from £772.04

- Marie Curie gained £200

- Alzheimer’s Society appreciated £135.49

A heartfelt thank you to all involved.

Brookfields House, Newcastle-under-Lyme, 10:30am Wednesday 11th December Wednesday 15th January

RSV P to book your place

Lytham 01524 917888

Menston 01943 660530

Kempston 01234 988200

Wylde Green 0121 817 8680

Newcastle-u-Lyme 01782 958850

"Is a retirement living community right for me?"

It’s a question many people ponder, and the answer can vary widely. For some, retirement living offers a vibrant community and a more fulfilling lifestyle, while for others, it may not align with their needs. At Adlington, we take pride in helping our homeowners discover the ideal living solution that suits them, and their loved ones, best.

Like a 5-star hotel

“Undoubtedly this has been the best move for me. The staff and the homeowners are lovely, my friends who come to stay think it’s a lovely place too. In fact, one of my good friends has put a deposit down on an apartment here. Another friend visited and is considering putting her house on the market and moving here. I’ve got no regrets whatsoever. I’m happy here.” Dr Cath, homeowner

“I think a lot of people don’t understand what retirement living communities are like. The first thing my son said when he came was it’s like a five-star hotel. The staff are all really polite and helpful. I wish that I’d visited five years earlier. I think if I’d known how good life can be, I’d have moved years ago.”

Bess, homeowner

Peace of mind and family joy

“The family are all coming for Christmas; both daughters, our son-inlaw, our granddaughter and grandson, my brother and his wife, and us two. We’ll have Christmas dinner in the restaurant and then come back to our apartment to do presents.” Pat and Michael, homeowners

“It definitely gives peace of mind for the whole family. My husband and I just went away to Cornwall, knowing that Dad was fine. He’s probably had more fun with us not being there.” Maria, homeowners daughter

“We’ve had more visitors since we moved here than ever we had before. They all loved staying in the guest suite.” Ann and Harry, homeowners

Comfortable living with extendable space

“I’ve got the best of both worlds with my apartment because I’ve also got all the communal areas to enjoy, like the homeowners’ lounge, the coffee bar, and the restaurant. We have a therapy suite and, of course, the hair salon.” Margaret, homeowner

“We have two bedrooms plus a study, and we’ve got a big living room. Our main bedroom is bigger than the one we had in our bungalow. We’ve made our second bedroom into a dining room, so we brought our dining table. It’s nice, and if anybody comes to stay, there’s a guest suite we can book for them, which is fantastic.” Keith, homeowner

Vibrant communities

“I have a busier social life now than I’ve ever had before. We have a keep-fit class on Wednesdays, Italian evenings, and parties planned for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. When I tell people, they think I’m having a very wild social life!

“I sometimes take part in a drama group too. It started with something in the summer, and then we did a pantomime in December. I was Sleeping Beauty in ‘Babes in the Wood’. About 15 of us participated, and we raised money for charity.” Sue, homeowner

Reassuring support when you need

“Having somebody available 24 hours a day is extremely important. There’s help on-hand if required. It's very reassuring for my daughter and my son too and as important for them as it is for me. They know that there is somebody around if I need any assistance.” Dr Cath, homeowner

“The camaraderie is one of the best things about living here, without a doubt, because I see far more people than I ever did. I remember saying once to a lady at church, not long after Jean had died, ‘You know, I didn't speak to one person yesterday,’ and she said, ‘Oh, that happens to me quite a lot.’ Now I see people all the time. There’s a real community spirit, and we’re just having more fun.” David, homeowner

Acts of kindness

Getting together with a smile

Rekindle traditions

Bake and decorate biscuits, then share them with friends and neighbours to spread joy.

Stroll through the season

Invite a friend for an early evening walk to admire the Christmas lights in your local area, sipping on hot chocolate or even your favourite tipple.

Craft your memories

Make homemade decorations with family or friends, each one telling a story or representing a special memory.

Give back

Volunteer your time at a local charity or food bank, sharing the spirit of giving with those in need.

Capture the moment

Organise a festive photo shoot with loved ones, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

WREATH MAKING

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES

Many of our communities host events that you are welcome to join. Please call the sales teams on the contact numbers on page three for more details.

CHRISTMAS JUMPER DAY

01 Which meteor shower is typically visible in midNovember each year?

02 Which British monarch delivered the first Christmas radio broadcast to the nation in 1932?

03 Which famous author wrote A Child’s Christmas in Wales?

04 Which artist is famous for his depiction of a winter scene in the painting The Skating Minister?

05 How many Christmas trees are grown in Europe each year?

06 In Home Alone, where is the family going on holiday?

07 What King was crowned on Christmas Day?

08 In what year was the Queen's speech first televised?

09 What is the name of the carrot in Aldi's Christmas advert?

10 Who plays the British Prime Minister in Love Actually?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 15

WORD SEARCH

REINDEER BELLS WINTER SANTA SNOWMAN STAR HOLIDAYS PRESENTS ANGEL JOLLY COOKIE GARLAND SWEATER ELF DECORATIONS ADVENT SNOW SLEIGH HOLLY SOCK

ANSWERS ON PAGE 15

Rewind & reinvent

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to cosy up and enjoy some classic entertainment. Here are a few of our recommendations. These modern twists retain the charm of their originals whilst bringing fresh new perspectives. Do any bring back fond memories for you?

Fun and games

Looking to add some festive cheer to your gatherings? Here are some fun activities that are sure to bring laughter and creativity to your celebrations.

Fun for all ages

Get ready for some hilarious fun with the toilet paper snowman game. Divide players into teams of two. When the host shouts "Go!", one team member must wrap the other completely in toilet paper to create a snowman. Finish off the by adding snowman buttons, a nose, a scarf, and a hat. The first team to complete their snowman wins. Expect lots of laughter as everyone gets creative and competitive.

Friends & family

Have fun around the table with a lively game of family trivia. When guests arrive, have each person jot down a little-known fact about themselves. After dessert, read the facts aloud and challenge everyone to guess who each fact belongs to. It’s a great way to learn more about each other with some light-hearted competition.

All Creatures Great and Small

This heartwarming revival of the classic 1978–1990 series is based on the memoirs of a rural vet in 1930s Yorkshire. The new version beautifully captures the charm, wit, and simplicity of rural life, making it a nostalgic treat for those who remember the original series and for new viewers discovering it for the first time.

Pawsome activity

Let’s celebrate our furry family members too. Create adorable DIY paw print ornaments to hang on the tree or use as gift toppers. Simply take some air-dry clay or salt dough, press your pet’s paw into it to make a print, and let it dry. Once set, you can paint or decorate them as you wish.

Classic board games

Setting aside time to play classic board games offers an alternative to more active games. Dust off your Monopoly, Cluedo, or Mouse Trap, and let the competition and camaraderie flow. Charity shops are a great place to find pre-loved games whilst also donating to a worthwhile cause.

DID YOU KNOW - Spending just 10 minutes a day solving puzzles or problems can help reduce cognitive decline and improve mental sharpness as you age.

The Darling Buds of May / The Larkins

A reimagining of the 1991 hit The Darling Buds of May, this series updates the story of the lovable Larkin family while maintaining its light-hearted, rural appeal.

Miss Marple

Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple has graced our screens many times over the years, with the latest major adaptation airing from 2004–2013.

Finding comfort in community

Coping with grief during the festive season can be especially challenging. The darker nights and memories of past celebrations often heighten feelings of loneliness. But it’s important not to let it overwhelm you, instead, find ways to give back. Volunteering at a food bank, supporting your local community, or reconnecting with an old neighbour can provide a sense of purpose and connection during this difficult time.

According to Age UK’s ‘You are not alone’ report, more than one in six older people who are widowed say they often feel lonely, underscoring the importance of compassion and community. For many older individuals, the passing of a spouse brings not only emotional pain but also practical challenges. Tasks that were once shared now fall

solely on the surviving partner, and the weight of making decisions alone can feel overwhelming. Safety concerns may also arise, particularly for those who find themselves living alone for the first time in many years.

Research by the Campaign to End Loneliness found that 1.2 million older people in the UK suffer from chronic loneliness, highlighting the importance of social interaction in later life. Yet, in the midst of such profound grief, there is hope. Some have found solace in retirement communities, where the warmth of companionship and the support of new friends has significantly improved their quality of life. We spoke with several homeowners who shared their heartfelt stories of finding comfort and camaraderie in their new homes.

Trevor’s Story

Trevor, who moved to The Sidings in Lytham, lost his first wife Jean, in 1984 and raised their two children alone. He later remarried and spent 35 years with his second wife before she sadly passed away. After her death, Trevor felt increasingly isolated.

"My children and sister worried about me… since moving here, I’ve got back to my normal self. The big benefit is the stimulus of other people. When you’re on your own, you lose your ability to think properly and start to go downhill."

Read more of Trevor's, and other homeowners', stories on our website adlington.co.uk/HO

Trevor's story highlights the power of community and companionship in later life. While the loss of a spouse is a significant challenge, finding a supportive environment can make all the difference. Whether through moving to a retirement community or reaching out to friends and neighbours, there are ways to navigate grief and rediscover joy in the connections around you.

During the festive season, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. By volunteering, reconnecting with others, or joining a new community, you can find comfort and purpose

hristmas gifting

ALL WRAPPED UP

As the festive season approaches, the age-old question arises: what do you gift someone who appears to have everything? When traditional presents seem insufficient, consider giving the gift of experiences and quality time. Here are our top gifting ideas; hopefully there’s something for everyone.

EXPERIENCE GIFTS

For the creative: Inspire artistic expression with a pottery class. Local studios typically offer workshops where individuals can craft unique pieces.

For the epicurean: Treat someone who enjoys the finer things in life to a gourmet food or a wine tasting experience. Many local vineyards and specialty food shops provide guided tastings.

For the relaxation seeker: Help your loved one unwind and recharge with a spa day or wellness retreat. Many places offer packages that include massages, facials, and relaxation treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind.

THE GIFT OF TIME

In today’s fast-paced world, time is perhaps the most precious gift of all.

Coffee dates or lunch outings: Schedule regular coffee dates or lunch outings. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to connect.

Movie or theatre tickets: Surprise them with tickets to a show or a film you can enjoy together. It’s a great way to spend quality time while enjoying the arts.

Day trips: Plan a day trip to a nearby city or a nature reserve. Exploring new places or simply enjoying a scenic walk together can create wonderful memories.

BUYING LOCAL

Bakeries and cafés: A voucher for a local bakery or café can be a perfect treat, a lovely way to indulge in local produce.

Artisan markets: Explore local artisan markets and consider gift vouchers for favourite stalls.

PERFECT PARTY FOOD

The perfect party food strikes a balance between flavour, variety, and presentation, ensuring there's something for every guest to enjoy. From savoury bites to sweet treats, party food should be easy to eat and visually appealing.

TREE-SHAPED DELI BOARD

For a stunning deli board, arrange cured meats like prosciutto and salami alongside a variety of cheeses—brie, gouda, and cheddar. Add crackers, breadsticks, and seasonal fruits like grapes or figs. Complement with nuts, olives, and dips such as hummus or mustard. Garnish with fresh herbs.

WREATH SALAD

Start with a base of leafy greens, then layer with peeled and sliced oranges, walnuts, beetroot, and goat's cheese on top.

DID YOU KNOW - A 20-minute nap can recharge your energy, boost memory, and even improve your mood. It’s like hitting a reset button on your day.

CANDY CANE

Create a festive candy cane by arranging fruits like berries and grapes with light-coloured biscuits, such as shortbread.

Bourbon Orange Cocktail

A simple and impressive cocktail recipe using bourbon or whiskey:

Ingredients:

25ml Bourbon or Whiskey, 75ml Orange Juice, Ice, 1 Cinnamon Stick, 1 Star Anise, Thin Orange Slices (for garnish), Fresh Rosemary (for garnish)

Instructions:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the bourbon or whiskey and orange juice.

Shake well until chilled. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a cinnamon stick, star anise, thin orange slices, and a sprig of rosemary.

Q&A

Jane Alexander General Manager

Jane is responsible for providing a consistently outstanding service to our homeowners at The Spindles in Menston, Yorkshire.

What are the main responsibilities of your role?

Every day is different, but my main responsibilities are to manage our on-site team and the building. It’s important to maintain high standards so that we deliver the lifestyle that homeowners expect.

I regularly meet with homeowners to discuss anything and everything. At our most recent meeting, I introduced our new chef. He received a round of applause because everyone is so happy with him.

We also spoke about our upcoming events; our duty managers are constantly suggesting new activities and events for our homeowners which are always well-received.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Seeing homeowners settling in and being happy has a really nice knock-on effect making the team enjoy working here even more.

How did you get into the role?

I previously worked as a senior team leader for a residential home for adults with autism and complex learning difficulties. I love working with people and I enjoyed being the activities coordinator, which was also part of my role. When I saw the opportunity to join the Adlington team, I could see that it would bring together all the skills I’ve developed in my career.

What attracted you to this role?

It was the community aspect that I was drawn to. Plus, understanding how good living in one of our communities is for people of retirement age. My mum’s that age, so I’ve seen her struggle with keeping on top of the house and the garden. I can see the sense of relief when homeowners move in.

It’s good for family members too, to have reassurance that their parents or grandparents always have somebody on-hand to help if they need it. That peace of mind is critical.

Beyond the desk

Tell us something most people don’t know about you.

My grandad was a bomber pilot, was shot down and became a prisoner of war in WWII. My grandma was a telephonist on the switchboard in the war.

Do you have any hobbies?

I like going to the theatre, these days it tends to be to see children’s plays. I’m in grandmother mode at the moment. I went recently to see ‘The Tiger who came to Tea’.

Can you share some details about festive events taking place at The Spindles?

We have a variety of exciting events planned over the season. This year we have a Christmas shopping event where you can explore stalls featuring handmade and bespoke gifts, and a heartwarming Christmas Carol Service accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies. There will also be a Christmas window display craft event, as well as opportunities to get creative with Christmas wreath making and bauble decorating. Our festive line-up continues with a lively Christmas party, a special Christmas Day dinner, and a fun-filled New Year’s Eve party to close the season in style.

How do you start your Christmas Day?

The best way for me to start the day is having a festive-blend coffee with my family whilst watching the magical excitement on my little grandchild’s face.

What are your favourite songs for this time of year?

My favourite song is a toss-up between The Pogues Fairytale of New York and Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song.

What are your plans for The Spindles in 2025?

I’m looking forward to seeing our community flourish throughout 2025, hosting more fantastic events and continue to ensure everyone thoroughly enjoys being part of The Spindles community.

REVISIT THE MAGIC OF PANTO

Pantomimes, or “pantos,” have been a beloved part of British festive traditions for over 200 years. Originally inspired by Italian commedia dell’arte in the 18th century, early pantos focused on slapstick comedy with characters like Harlequin and Pantaloon. By the Victorian era, pantomimes became synonymous with Christmas and New Year, delighting audiences with fairy tales such as Cinderella and Aladdin. For many of us, the joy of pantos is in the familiar elements: the larger-than-life Dames, the daring Principal Boy, and plenty of good-hearted humour. The audience plays an important role too, joining in with choruses of “It’s behind you!” and other playful interactions which many consider the best part. "Oh yes, it is!"

If you haven’t been to a panto recently, why not revisit this festive tradition? Relive the magic and share it with younger generations for a heart-warming, laughter-filled experience.

The word "pantomime" comes from the Latin word "pantomimus", derived from the Greek word "pantomimos", meaning "imitator of all".

In true role reversal, the "Principal Boy", usually a young hero like Peter Pan or Aladdin, is traditionally played by a woman. Whereas the "Dame", often a comedic, larger-thanlife motherly character like Widow Twankey in Aladdin or the Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk, is traditionally played by a man. Then of course there’s the tricky decision over who plays the back end of the horse...

Homeowners at The Woodlands enjoyed creating their very own panto

Enjoy a local Christmas panto this season, where festive entertainment and community spirit shine on stage.

Snow White 2 nd December - 4 th January

Lowther Pavilion, Lytham lowtherpavilion.co.uk

Peter Pan 14 th December - 5 th January

Victoria Theatre, Halifax victoriatheatre.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty 6th December - 5th January

Stockport Plaza stockportplaza.co.uk

Dick Whittington 13 th December - 5 th January

Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

Snow White 21 st - 31 st December

Bedford Corn Exchange bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Robin Hood 7 th - 31 st December

Sutton Coldfield Townhall suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com

Cinderella 28 th November - 5 th January

Exeter Northcott Theatre exeternorthcott.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW

Laughter really is the best medicine. Laughing for 10-15 minutes a day burns calories, improves mood, and reduces stress – like a mini workout for your soul.

Choosing the right retirement community is an important decision. Why not book a private tour or join us at one of our coffee mornings? Our dedicated sales teams are ready to answer any questions you may have.