I am currently in the process of selling a house(London.Essex border) and buying a flat in Weston S Mare in Somerset. I will be 78 in a few days time, and am finding it very difficult. Only me to make the decisions. Sixteen years ago I downsized from the family house to this 3-bed 1930 terrace, then - almost immediately had to have the loft done to make room for one of my daughters ever increasing number of babies.
Whilst I worked I had lots done to the house, with the idea of making it easy to run when I retired (just before my 70th birthday). I can manage most of the housework but do have a gardener now for the very small garden.
A bad fall early this year, really decided me that I need to be in a flat. These days, it is rare for any of my children to come to stay with me - even when they come to London, usually stay with my eldest daughter who lives about a mile away.
So, I am just looking for a flat that will suit me - want 2 beds so can have a friend stay - but TBH - if any of the family do visit then they will be better staying at hotels.
I have to decide between the larger, normal 2-bed flats or a smaller sheltered housing flat. Tempting this is as it will mean that there will be company without having to go out, etc. etc.
With my house under offer - and my Solicitor saying it should only take 2-3 months to complete (I have been thinking of nearer four months), I will be viewing flats on Saturday a week and will have to make my decision then.
I have been spending a lot of time, clearing out things - for a time making weekly visits to the Charity shops, still a way to go. Yes, it is cathartic.
At 70 many of us are still reasonably fit and healthy - but as the decade proceeds age does catch up with us.
It is a big move for me, as I have never lived outside East London/Essex and I will be moving down to Somerset. My five children are all scattered, so wherever I go I can only be near one of them.