Music in retirement Orchard Yard in Wingham, Kent, hosts a primary school production of Matilda
Music, and musical involvement has been shown to have a positive impact on the mental, emotional, social and physical well-being of retirees making it an excellent activity for those looking to stay active and engaged in their retirement years.
John Lavin of Cognatum says, “Music improves cognitive function and memory retention which can help combat age-related cognitive decline. Learning an instrument or singing in a choir can challenge the mind and keep it sharp.
“We positively encourage music in many different formats on all our estates, whether that’s performances from our own residents, others coming in to perform to our residents and their families, or a combination of both. Our estates and residents are very much part of the local community.”
Orchard Yard, Cognatum’s estate in Wingham, Kent, hosts an annual concert at which Year 6 students from the local primary school perform a number of tunes and dances from their end of term production.
Ms Douglas, head teacher at Wingham Primary School said, “Having recently worked very hard on their production of Matilda, this summer the children decided to showcase some of their songs and dance routines to entertain the Orchard Place community. Following the performance, the children enjoyed some time chatting with the audience and sharing examples of their school work. The event was enjoyed enormously by the children and the residents alike.”
Rob McDiarmod, estate manager at Orchard Yard, said, “Musical involvement in retirement provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Enjoying performances, or participating in a musical group, such as a choir or band, can provide an opportunity to make new friends and socialise with like-minded individuals, bothh young and old.”
Orchard Yard is an exclusive new community of homes for retirement living. There are nine houses and six apartments, plus a whole host of communal areas including a club house with stretch studio, gym and large terrace with barbecue; and communal gardens planted to encourage wildlife and biodiversity including orchard, vegetable gardens and greenhouse.
There are four styles of property available for sale:
The Signac and Morisot are three bedroom, three bathroom houses with a large master suite and garden views, from £725,000
The Vivin and Moret are two bedroom, two bathroom apartments from £655,000 with the
penthouse apartment featuring high vaulted ceilings, private balcony and garden views at £735,000
For more information:
Winkworth: 01227 456645 / Canterbury@winkworth.co.uk
Cognatum: 01491 821170 / property@cognatum.co.uk
Cognatum, an independent not for profit company, has over 60 retirement estates across central and southern England.