Golden gratitude: Local retirement village residents share what they are thankful for in 2025
The end of the year ushers in a season of reflection, with many of us considering the moments we were grateful for in the passing year, and setting goals for things to focus on in the year ahead. However, too often these reflections are fixated on life’s larger milestones or stand-out moments – but what about the everyday moments to be thankful for?
To celebrate the everyday moments of joy and gratitude, luxury retirement community providers LifeCare Residences surveyed their residents in London and Hampshire to see what they’re thankful for in 2025.
The light-hearted survey asked residents aged 60-90+ what they are most thankful for in their lives right now.
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When it comes to core values and elements of life, LifeCare Residences respondents were most thankful for:
Family – 80%
Health – 60%
Friends – 55%
Hobbies – 20%
Food and drink – 20%
Faith, religion or spirituality – 20%
Perhaps unsurprisingly, ‘family’, ‘health’ and ‘friends’ were named the top three categories residents were most thankful for. But what smaller, everyday moments bring a smile to their day?
The research asked ‘What everyday small moments are you most grateful for?’ and the results highlight the small, joyful moments we should all aim to cherish:
Laughing with friends – 55%
A hug from a loved one – 50%
Reading or listening to a good book or article – 45%
A walk outside – 40%
Good TV programs – 35%
Over half of respondents noted sharing a moment of ‘laughter with friends’ or a ‘hug from a loved one’ as key moments to be thankful for, a warming reminder that small moments of care, connection and joy shared with loved ones can go a long way.
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Here are some reflections residents shared on a personal moment, thing, or experience they are most grateful for this year:
“Having a dog for companionship.”
“I am thankful that when my husband sadly passed away 2 years ago, I found a wonderful new life here at Grove Place, which I never dreamt I would have again.”
“Invitations to small gatherings, they make me feel welcome.”
“Marrying my wife after meeting at the village.”
Evelyn Quartey, Head of Care at Battersea Place, a luxury retirement village of LifeCare Residences, comments on the importance of reflecting on the everyday moments of joy in older age:
“Feeling and expressing gratitude is a practice that can benefit our overall wellbeing and sense of self, often triggering a release of serotonin and dopamine. Sharing these positive experiences can also help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
“Reflecting on things we’re grateful for is a useful exercise for all ages, and it is particularly helpful for elderly members of our community to celebrate all the joyful moments in their lives. Taking the time to reflect on what elderly loved ones value most or gain a moment of joy from can be helpful for friends and family to do at this time of year, to ensure these moments are prioritised. From enjoying a good walk, sharing an insightful article, or simply giving them a hug – there are plenty of easy ways to spread a little joy with your loved ones.
“Perhaps these insights will inspire everyone to take a moment to reflect on and cherish the core elements we can so easily take for granted, or the everyday moments that spark a moment of joy, like a good cup of tea, or giving your pet a scratch behind the ear!”
