Jill Cook’s happy place is watching British detective series on television, fortified by a cup of coffee and a few biscuits.
And the 84-year-old, who lives in her cosy unit at Uniting AgeWell Yernga Independent Living village in Mount Waverley, is happy to report she’s not alone! Many of the residents in the village also love watching who-dunnits.
“One of my friends and I watch the same shows, and some nights one of us will doze off and then we phone each other and ask “Quick – who did it?” Jill laughs. “I love all the suspense and mysteries, I often think I should have been a detective.”
Jill moved into her unit six years ago and hasn’t looked back since! She enjoys being able to pop round to the community centre on the site for a quick cuppa and a game of cards with her friends in the village.
The community centre, taking COVID-19 restrictions into account, is well used. The residents have held pizza nights and also brought in pies to watch the Grand Final, which Geelong fan Jill, thoroughly enjoyed.
Jill loves baking, oil painting (some of her artwork is up on her walls) and a bit of retail therapy. “It’s a good life,” she says, “I have a very special bond with my daughters and granddaughter and I’m very happy here.”
Uniting AgeWell South East Housing Officer Lee Martin says residents like Jill live independently in the spacious 31-unit complex of one-and two bedroomed units, each with their own undercover car park and storage locker, and at the same time share the beautiful garden and enjoy a sense of camaraderie and community with other residents.
The village, with its low service fees, is a great option for those wanting to downsize and move into a safe, welcoming community. The friendly atmosphere really contributes to a sense of togetherness and wellbeing,” Lee says. “It’s a great way to retire, it’s the best of both worlds.”
There are currently a couple of vacancies in the village. For further details or to arrange a tour, phone Lee on 9845 3139 or visit https://www.unitingagewell.org/our-services/independent-retirement-living/yernga