At Riverstone, we're always striving to put our residents' needs at the heart of everything we do. That's why we were thrilled when our Wellbeing Director, Zoe Wyrko, was recently invited to speak at Property Week’s Later Living Conference.

The topic of discussion was particularly relevant: "putting your customers' needs in the heart of your business."

During the panel discussion, Zoe shared valuable insights alongside other industry experts, including Rebekah Luff from SCIE, Paul Cole from Wallacea Living, and Ali Powell, CEO and Founder of Commercial Acceleration. Moderated by Victoria Mager, Director of Development Delivery, the panel delved into the importance of prioritising well-being in later living communities.

Zoe emphasised the significance of understanding residents' needs from the moment they consider joining our community. "Not everybody wants want to live longer," she explained. "They want to have a few really, really good years." This understanding forms the basis of our approach at Riverstone – supporting residents to stay independent while providing the care and assistance they need to thrive.

One key challenge discussed was how to educate individuals about the benefits of retirement communities. Zoe highlighted the importance of language in shaping perceptions. By reframing the conversation around aging positively, we aim to dispel misconceptions and promote a more forward-looking view of later living.

"As we strive to enhance the understanding of retirement communities, it's crucial to emphasise the positive aspects," Zoe explained. "For instance, many may not realise that moving into a retirement community can lead to a reduced need for hospital visits due to proactive wellbeing measures."

In summary, Zoe's participation in the conference reinforced Riverstone's commitment to providing not just a home, but a vibrant and supportive community where residents can enjoy their best years.

As Zoe aptly put it, "You don’t have to give things up; you’re actually gaining them." At Riverstone, we're dedicated to empowering our residents to live life to the fullest, with care, support, and a sense of belonging every step of the way.