A report commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care has provided “overwhelming evidence” of the substantial and widespread benefits of retirement villages for residents who live there.

Published in November 2020, the research conducted by The Kings Fund and The University of York, found that older people living in retirement communities are healthier and more independent and require reduced levels of health and care support.

After conducting an extensive review of available evidence and research on the health and social care value of the new generation of retirement housing – known as housing-with-care – the report finds strong evidence of significant benefits including improvements in overall health, fitness, memory function and life expectancy.

Middleton Hall Retirement Village’s Managing Director, Suzanne Graham, said that the research fits with the experience of those who live in the range of independent retirement properties located in the Middleton Hall grounds.

“From using the gym for the first time in their lives to getting involved with the numerous activities and events that take place, people are encouraged to lead active, independent lives which has very positive knock-on effects on health and well-being.”

The main body representing the Integrated Retirement Community sector in the UK, ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators), which Middleton Hall Retirement Village is a member of as an approved operator, welcomed the report when it was published.

Michael Voges, ARCO’s Executive Director said: “There is now an overwhelming, comprehensive and conclusive body of proof that the Integrated Retirement Community model can play a vital role in supporting our health and social are systems and in keeping older people healthy, independent and well for longer.”

The DHSC report supports the findings of research by Aston and Lancaster Universities commissioned by not-for-profit retirement housing developer The ExtraCare Charitable Trust to research the value of its model on lifestyle.

Published in March 2019, this research found that residents in retirement villages cost the NHS 38% less per annum, exercise by residents increased by 75%, anxiety symptoms decreased by 23% while memory improved by 24% and 85.5% of residents never or hardly ever felt lonely.

A range of independent retirement living options are available at Middleton Hall Retirement Village. Our Waterside bungalows offer high specification, spacious, energy-efficient accommodation in a spectacular setting and our award-winning Middleton Woods apartments feature one and two bedroom retirement apartments, substantially larger than typical retirement homes and set in beautiful grounds.

The spacious, comfortable apartments of Middleton Grove also offer a unique lifestyle to those who enjoy their independence and privacy but would appreciate the benefits of support, companionship and security within a small, friendly community.

For further details visit www.middletonhallretirementvillage.co.uk