Why this Port Lincoln resident chose retirement living at Lincoln Grove

When Margaret first walked into her serviced apartment at Lincoln Grove, she didn’t need long to decide. She stepped inside, looked out over the bay, and said: “This is it. This is going to be my home.”

Four years on, she’s never doubted that decision.

“I’m very, very happy here,” Margaret says. “Honestly, it was the best thing I’ve ever done.”

An independent life 

Margaret’s life before Lincoln Grove was full of movement. With her husband working across South Australia as a livestock coordinator, the family relocated frequently. 

“We moved to probably at least 15 towns,” she recalls. “Yorke Peninsula, the coast, the southeast. We were always moving.” 

Raising 5 children along the way wasn’t always easy. “It was hard on the kids, changing schools so often,” she says. “But we learnt to make friends wherever we went.” 

Later, Margaret and her husband made the decision to move into an independent living unit at Lincoln Grove Retirement Village, thinking ahead for the future. When her husband passed away and her own health needs changed, Margaret began to consider her next step. 

Making the move to a serviced apartment 

For Margaret’s daughter Cherine, the transition into a serviced apartment was something that unfolded gradually. 

“We talked about it for a couple of years,” Cherine says. “It’s a big decision, and it had to be Mum’s.” 

After COVID, things became more challenging. Social connections were harder to maintain, and everyday tasks were becoming more difficult. 

“We could see things were getting trickier,” Cherine says. “But Mum needed to feel ready.” 

The turning point came unexpectedly. When a particular apartment became available, Margaret came to take a look. 

“She walked in, saw the view, and that was it,” Cherine says. “She just knew.” 

Support that feels natural 

One of the biggest shifts for Margaret has been learning to accept support after a lifetime of independence. 

“When you’ve raised 5 children and done everything yourself, it’s a big change,” she says. 

But at Lincoln Grove, that support is offered in a way that never feels intrusive. 

“One of the staff said to me, ‘Margaret, please use me. I’m here to help,’” she recalls. “I thought that was just beautiful.” 

Living with ongoing health needs, Margaret says the environment gives her confidence to stay social and engaged. 

“I feel so comfortable here,” she says. “If I go out, I can get a bit nervous. But here, I can join in everything, and if I need to, I can just go back to my apartment.” 

For Cherine, that sense of security has made a significant difference. 

“I can go away and know she’s safe,” she says. “That peace of mind is huge.” 

A community that feels like home 

Daily life at Lincoln Grove is shaped as much by connection as it is by care. 

“There’s always something happening,” Margaret says. “We’ve just had a painting afternoon, there must have been 30 or 40 of us. We had a cheese platter, a glass of champagne, it was just beautiful.” 

There are regular social activities throughout the week, from bingo afternoons to shared meals in the dining room. 

“We have dinners twice a month, and family can come along,” she says. “It makes such a difference in winter when it’s harder to get out.” 

The small moments matter just as much. 

“I’ve had neighbours bring me jars of jam,” Margaret says. “It’s those little things. It really is a community.” 

Independence, with support close by 

Despite the additional support, Margaret says she still feels a strong sense of independence. 

“In my own way, I feel independent,” she says. “I don’t feel like I’m being a burden to my children.” 

Cherine agrees. 

“In some ways, Mum has more independence here than she would living on her own,” she says. “She’s supported, but her choices are still hers.” 

That balance, between help and autonomy, is what makes the difference. 

“You’re supported, not taken over,” Cherine says. 

What families need to know 

For families considering a move like this, Cherine encourages people to look beyond common misconceptions. 

“It’s not a nursing home,” she says. “I always say to people, come and have a look first.” 

She also highlights the importance of understanding what you’re investing in. 

“The investment is in your parents’ wellbeing and lifestyle,” she says. “It’s about this stage of life being as comfortable and supported as it can be.” 

Margaret agrees, with a practical perspective shaped by her own experience. 

“Do your homework,” she says. “Understand what’s involved. But if you’re looking for support, this has been perfect for me.” 

A place to belong 

At 90, Margaret continues to enjoy life surrounded by people who care. She celebrated her recent birthday at Lincoln Grove with family, laughter and a few surprises, including a special video created by her grandson that brought treasured memories to life. 

Reflecting on her time at Lincoln Grove, her words are simple but certain. 

“For me, it’s been perfect.”