When Glenys moved into Oak Tree Retirement Village Mudgee, it wasn’t just a lifestyle change for her. It was a turning point for her whole family.

For her daughter Trina, the difference has been profound.

“Since moving in, Mum’s overall wellbeing has improved greatly,” she says. “Her stress just melted away, and it’s like she got a whole new lease on life.”

A move that needed to happen

Before the move, Glenys had been living alone in the family home following her husband’s passing. Over time, the reality of managing the house – along with some health challenges – became harder to ignore.

“She was on her own, and it was just becoming too much,” Trina says. “We knew something needed to change.”

For Glenys’ son Anthony, who lives interstate, the distance added another layer of concern.

“It wasn’t always easy to organise help when things needed doing,” he says. “Even when you could arrange it, it wasn’t straightforward.”

As a family, they began looking for a solution that would allow Glenys to stay independent, while also giving everyone greater peace of mind.

Finding the right place, together

The decision wasn’t rushed, and importantly, it wasn’t made for Glenys, but with her.

“You can’t make that decision for someone,” Trina says. “It has to be their decision, and it has to happen when they’re ready.”

Trina was the first to visit Oak Tree Retirement Village Mudgee, after hearing about it locally. She joined residents for a happy hour and immediately felt something different – something great.

“Everyone was so welcoming,” she says. “It just felt right.”

Not long after, she brought Glenys along to see it for herself. “I loved it straight away,” Glenys says. “Everyone was very friendly.”

Like many families, there were conversations along the way, and not everyone felt the same at first.

“There were a few of us involved in the decision,” Trina says. “And naturally, there were questions around how it worked and whether it was the right move for Mum.”

Anthony says those conversations were an important part of the process.

“We all wanted to make sure Mum was making the right decision,” he says. “But once everyone understood what life here actually looked like, the decision became easier.”

From there, the family was able to move forward with confidence, knowing it was a decision that supported Glenys’ independence, lifestyle and wellbeing.

A lifestyle that’s changed everything

Since moving in, Glenys’ day-to-day life has transformed. “She’s active, connected and genuinely thriving,” Trina says. “There’s always something happening if she wants to be involved.”

From social events and outings to regular catch-ups with neighbours, life in the village has brought a new sense of energy and connection.

For Glenys, that sense of community was immediate. “Everyone made themselves known,” she says. “They’re very friendly.”

“It’s the best thing I’ve done.”

Support when it matters most

Beyond the lifestyle, it’s the support around her that has made the biggest difference, both for Glenys and her family.

When Glenys broke her ankle last year, it was her neighbours who stepped in. “The lady next door came in twice a day to check on her and make her a cup of tea,” Anthony says. “That kind of support is invaluable.”

For Trina, moments like that confirm they made the right decision. “It gives us great peace of mind,” she says. “She’s still living independently, but she’s surrounded by people who genuinely care.”

Independence, without the burden

One of the biggest changes for the family is knowing Glenys no longer has to manage everything on her own.

“She doesn’t have to rely on us for all the little things anymore,” Trina says. “Everything she needs is close by, and if something comes up, there’s always someone around to help.”

That independence has also changed the way the family spends time together.

“When we’re together now, it’s just about enjoying each other’s company,” she says. “Not ticking off a list of jobs.”

For Glenys, the design of her home has made everyday life easier too. “It’s all on one level, easy to keep clean, and everything’s designed to be accessible,” she says. “You don’t have to worry.”

A decision that brought everyone peace of mind

Looking back, the whole family agrees the move has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Honestly, it’s the best thing Mum ever did,” Trina says.

Anthony agrees. “It’s been a fantastic decision,” he says. “It’s worked out really well and given me a lot more peace of mind.”

And for Glenys, there’s only one thing she would change. “I probably should have done it sooner.”

To find out more about what living looks like at Oak Tree Retirement Village Mudgee click here or call 1300 367 155.