Home, sweet home?

Regarding Disgusted’s letter on retiring (YOU Say, 15 March), I’m determined not to end up in a home where other people handle my grant and make me feel six years old.

I planned my retirement in my fifties. Today, still fit at 84, I’m about to add an extension with ablution facilities to my two-bedroom house.

While still on my own two feet I’ll rent it out. When I’m bedridden one day my son, the executor of my estate, will find me a carer and cleaner and manage my estate.

Think hard before you give up your independence. Don’t sit and regret your final move. HAPPY DAYS, NORTHPINE S Living in a semi-frailcare block of a retirement home is like being at preschool where children become used to being in an environment with other children. The difference is that children gain their independence and most interact easily with other little ones. They may squabble over something, but it’s soon forgotten.

The elderly have lost their independence but most are glad to relinquish their worries and fit in well with having to stick to a schedule. A few resent it but find their options are limited and that it’s more pleasant to go with the flow.

There are advantages though. Being driven to the shopping centre, you don’t have to look for parking and the driver unloads your trolley-load of purchases for you.

It’s great to have a hairdresser on the premises and activities in which you can share, if you wish. Lunch is served in the main dining room and breakfast and supper are brought to your room.

The cherry on the cake is having no dishes to wash! MAUREEN SALTER, GEORGE