Retirement homeowners share the benefits of a garden that ‘doesn’t ask much in return’
By The Editor 1st May 2026
Homeowners with a local retirement community operator have shared how moving allowed them to enjoy the outdoors without the responsibility of maintaining a garden.
Adlington Retirement Living, which operates Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme, has shared how many of their homeowners have enjoyed letting go of the 'hidden labour' of looking after their own outdoor spaces.
A spokesperson for Adlington Retirement Living said: "What surprises many people is that the pleasure of being surrounded by greenery and planting doesn't disappear just because the responsibility for maintaining it has gone.
"In fact, once the constant list of jobs is removed, it can sometimes become easier to appreciate those small seasonal details even more.
"Over time, the hidden labour behind even the most beautiful garden begins to add up.
"Lawns need mowing, hedges demand trimming, gutters fill with leaves, patios become slippery underfoot, and fences and borders need attention that never seems to come at a convenient moment.
"What once felt like enjoyable activity can gradually turn into a cycle of maintenance that needs to be kept on top of."
Joan, a homeowner who moved after decades in a large Victorian house, recalled how it was her responsibility to carry out jobs around the house – even if climbing a ladder was involved.
"I was the one who noticed the guttering," she said.
Homeowner David explained how he began to struggle mowing his sloping lawn over time. After moving, he felt relieved.
He said: "When you move here, all of a sudden, you're not looking at jobs that need doing around the house and garden. The worry has instantly all gone away."
Another homeowner, Sue, shared a similar sentiment: "The grounds here are lovely and so well kept. Having the gardeners is a huge benefit, the fact that somebody else is doing it for me is brilliant."
Adlington Retirement Living explained how homeowners living in their communities enjoy taking part in gardening on their own terms.
Joan shared how she enjoys planting a few bulbs or taking part without carrying the overall obligation.
She said: "We haven't got that major responsibility anymore. You can back off if you don't feel like it today, you haven't got to do it and that's lovely."
The maintained outdoor spaces, including gardens and patios, also provide places to sit, talk and spend time with friends.
Homeowner Cath said: "There are some very keen gardeners among the homeowners, and when the weather's nice I love sitting out in a sunny, sheltered spot by the greenhouse, chatting and watching them working in the raised beds.
"As a retired GP, I can really see how important it is; being outside, socialising and staying connected to nature makes a real difference."
Joan added: "The gardens are lovely here. I haven't got the overall responsibility. It's just a superb arrangement."
A spokesperson for Adlington Retirement Living said: "When the responsibility lifts, appreciation can return.
"Sitting outside with a drink in the sunshine, noticing the first shoots of spring or the colours of autumn, can feel all the more rewarding.
"The garden is still there, offering a sanctuary to enjoy, but it doesn't ask much in return."
To find out more, join a coffee morning or book a tour, call the friendly sales team on 01782 958850.
They're ready to welcome you Monday to Saturday at Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme or visit the website here.
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