For Alice and her husband Bruce, the decision to move to Blueheath at the Bower was guided as much by feeling as it was by practicality.

“I think it was the presence that we felt when we came here,” Alice said. “From the moment we arrived, it just felt right.”

That first impression was reinforced by the welcome they received from the Principle Living team. Alice recalls being shown around the community by Village and Sales Manager Adam, alongside Operations Manager David, and immediately feeling at ease.

“He was absolutely wonderful,” she said. “Adam and David make a great team and they made us feel very welcome from the get go.”

One of the major attractions for the couple was the size of the community itself. With just 112 homes, Blueheath offered the sense of intimacy and familiarity they were looking for.

“We like the size of the community,” Alice said. “It’s not very big and that was one of the big drawcards for us.”

Like many residents, Alice and her husband downsized from a larger family home – a decision she describes as significant, but ultimately rewarding.

“It’s always a big decision when you’re doing something like that,” she said. “But it’s worked out very well. We’re not sorry that we’ve made this decision.”

Since moving in, Alice says life has become noticeably simpler. With less clutter and fewer responsibilities, the shift to community living has been a success.

“It’s something we probably should have done years ago,” she said.

“Everything is so inclusive here. There are so many things to do and there is always something on,” she said. “You can either join in or not join in – whatever your preferences are.”

The natural setting also plays a big role in daily life. Surrounded by bushland, Alice says the atmosphere is calm and restorative.

“It’s quiet and relaxed, which is just what you need when you retire.”

Alice and Bruce have embraced many of the community facilities, particularly the clubhouse, gym and heated indoor pool.

“The clubhouse is just great,” she said. “We go to Happy Hour every Friday afternoon, and we’ve been using the gym, which is absolutely fabulous. And the indoor, heated pool is just wonderful.”

Practical convenience has also been key. Being close to Newcastle, major hospitals and specialist services gives Alice confidence as they look ahead.

“That accessibility to services is one of the big drawcards,” she said.

When it comes to advice for others considering retirement living, Alice keeps it simple.

“Come and see it,” she said.

She also praised the patience and support of the Principle Living management team,noting that no question is ever too small.

“They’re so understanding,” she said. “We’ve asked some pretty silly questions, and they don’t hesitate to answer or help you wherever they can.”

For this happy couple, Blueheath has delivered exactly what they were hoping for.

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