A recent survey of 2,000 homeowners revealed that their homes are more than just a structure; they’re filled with cherished memories and strong emotional ties. Over half of the respondents admitted they would be ‘devastated’ if they had to relocate.
The study found that 73% view their home as a place where they ‘feel safe and secure’, while 46% consider it their ‘sanctuary’. Moreover, 65% have an unbreakable emotional bond with their abode.
For 56%, their property holds ‘irreplaceable’ memories – whether those are joyous moments shared with their partner (37%) or with their children (36%).
The time and effort invested in making their property ‘just right’ also contributes to the deep attachment homeowners feel towards their homes. This could involve furnishing their property (44%), hanging pictures of loved ones on the walls (45%), or creating a tranquil garden space (35%).
Alison Ritchie, 68, from Livingston, Scotland, shared: “I love gardening, it’s my passion and where I spend much of my time during the summer months.”
“My garden is also full of memories – including a table and chair from the 1920s which was given to my father by my mother, and a shed built by my late husband, Phil – it still has his tools in it. So being out there is really meaningful and important to me.”
The Good Care Group, who provide live-in care for those needing assistance in their own homes, conducted the research. The poll revealed that 30% of people believe moving into a care home becomes an ‘inevitability’ as they age, which would mean leaving their familiar ‘sanctuary’.
(Image: Carolyn Mendelsohn)
Darren Kennedy, Managing Director for The Good Care Group, commented: “Almost all of us have spent our entire lives living in just a handful of homes, bringing up families, being brought up by our parents and growing up with siblings along the way.”
“We are incredible at making attachments to things, whether that’s pets, the wallpaper, memorable objects or the view of the garden. Our homes are where we have spent thousands of hours, filling them with material things that are precious to us, as well as irreplaceable memories.”
The survey also highlighted that 67% were actually unaware that live-in home care for older individuals or those with complex needs was an option which would save them moving.
The study discovered that 41% consider their property to be ‘crucial’ for their mental health while a further 25% said their home gives them space to express themselves and 23% said it provides them a place to pursue their hobbies.
Brian Howlett, 88, from Honiton, Devon, shared: “I have lived in my house for 60 plus years – although I did sell it and move away to New Zealand for a few years. But I missed it so much, I bought it again when I saw it was up for sale. I couldn’t not, it’s where my children grew up, where I lived with my wife, and where I have pursued my hobby.”
“I used to be an amateur radio operator and would talk to people all over the world in my radio room. I still have my Axminster radio all these years later and couldn’t bear to part with it.”