Two seniors share how daily interactions and shared activities bring meaning and comfort to their lives
Growing older can sometimes mean feeling isolated, especially for those living alone. But for Madam Catherine, 84, and Madam Jennie, 86, choosing to live in a retirement community has brought structure, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose to their days.
Catherine, whose son works nearby, and Jennie, who relocated from Arizona after the passing of her husband, now spend their days surrounded by people, activities, and routines at Sunway Sanctuary that keep them engaged and connected. While their experiences are personal, they highlight a universal truth: staying socially connected is vital for both mental and physical well-being, no matter your age.
1Twenty80: What made you decide to move into Sunway Sanctuary?
Madam Catherine: My son works and stays in a nearby condo, so he often passes this area. One day, he stumbled upon this place while it was still under construction. They showed him around and he immediately liked the surroundings. He later told my daughter that he had found a good place for my husband and me. And that’s how we eventually ended up here.
Madam Jennie: My journey was a bit more difficult. I was living alone in Arizona after my husband passed away, and I fell into a period of loneliness. I stopped taking care of myself—I didn’t eat, I didn’t take my medications, and I barely got out of bed. A neighbour, whom I truly believe was God-sent, came to check on me and realised something was wrong. He called my children, and soon I was in an ambulance and admitted to the hospital.
After going through several hospitals, I was placed in a senior care facility in the US, but it was nothing like what I have here now. Later on, my son asked me to watch a TV segment that featured this community. I was captivated by what I saw, as the difference was very clear. We didn’t even have a long discussion; we just came, and that’s how I ended up here.
1Twenty80: Before moving here, what were some of the challenges you faced while living alone?
Madam Jennie: After experiencing both living alone in Arizona and now being here, the difference is incomparable. I’ve made my choice, and my family is very happy about it.
Madam Catherine: For me, the biggest change is having things to do every day. There are so many activities to join, everyone here is friendly, and the daily routines keep us active. In the mornings we exercise together, and now with Christmas around the corner, we’ve been making cards as a group.
When you’re on your own, you don’t do these things. But here, even if you’re not very good at something, you just join in and try. It keeps us occupied in a happy way, and at our age, it feels good to still be able to take part.
1Twenty80: What were your first impressions after you moved in?
Madam Catherine: Initially, I did feel a little lonely. When I first moved in, it was just my husband and me (there weren’t many residents yet because the place had only just opened). I didn’t have any friends here at the beginning, so it took some time to adjust.
One day, I was told that someone would be moving in soon, and I remember feeling so happy knowing there would be more company. Slowly, more residents arrived. I became friends with Madam Jennie and others, and things naturally improved. Now, with more people around and so many facilities to use, life feels a lot fuller.
Madam Jennie: For me, my first impression was very clear: this felt like the place I would stay for the rest of my life. It was something special, something I never expected. After everything I’ve gone through, I see this as the reward for all the hard work and the difficult years behind me.
1Twenty80: Do you feel society underestimates how isolating it can be for seniors living alone?
Madam Catherine: Living alone can be very difficult, especially when children are busy with work. They love you, but they just don’t have the time to spend with you. So that can make you feel left out. That’s when your mind starts to wander nonsense, and loneliness can make you fall sick.
Here, it’s different because we’re surrounded by people. We make new friends all the time, join activities together, eat together, laugh together. Having company makes the days feel lighter and happier.
Madam Jennie: I believe the way families care for their seniors often comes from what they’ve seen and learned over the years. When kindness and respect are passed down in a family, it helps the younger generation understand the importance of caring for their elders.
1Twenty80: Are there moments or connections here that stand out to you?
Madam Jennie: It’s hard to choose just one. Every day feels a little different because we meet different people and have small interactions that make the day meaningful in their own way.
Madam Catherine: That’s true. New residents come in, some leave, and we get to meet all sorts of people.
Madam Jennie: At this stage of life, we aren’t looking for excitement. What we appreciate is peace, a steady routine, and feeling happy.
1Twenty80: What would you say to fellow seniors who are scared to move into a retirement residence?
Madam Jennie: I don’t think you have to say much. People believe what their eyes see, and when they see that we’re comfortable and at ease, they understand what life here is actually like. At this age, most of us are just looking for comfort.
Madam Catherine: Maybe they could experience it for themselves. They could come visit, walk around, look at the surroundings, and meet the people. When they see it in person, it’s easier for them to imagine themselves living comfortably. Talking only goes so far; experiencing it makes a difference.
