For Yvonne, gardening is not just a hobby – it’s a lifelong passion. Throughout her life, gardening has been a way for her to connect with nature, find joy, and stay active. Now, as a resident at Aeralife Bayswater, she continues to cultivate this passion, bringing beauty to her surroundings and sharing her love of nature with others.
A passion that’s lasted a lifetime
Yvonne’s love of gardening started many years ago and has been a constant companion through all stages of her life. “Every place we lived, there was a garden to bring back to life,” she says, recalling the years spent moving from location to location with her husband, who was an Anglican priest. “I learned how to make gardens thrive, ensuring the soil was healthy and the plants were well cared for.”
Since moving into Aeralife Bayswater five years ago, Yvonne has found a garden that she can truly call her own. “I enjoy getting outside and working in the garden. It’s peaceful, and I love seeing others appreciate it too,” she shares. With support from Aeralife, Yvonne is able to maintain her garden, taking care of plants that bring her both calm and purpose.
A plant with a history
One of the most special parts of Yvonne’s gardening journey is a plant she’s had for 55 years – since the same time her daughter was born. “I’ve taken it with me from home to home, and it now lives here at Bayswater,” she explains. This plant has been part of Yvonne’s life for over five decades, offering a tangible connection to her past, her family, and the memories she’s made along the way. “It’s been with me through so much, and now it’s a part of this garden,” Yvonne reflects, showing just how much her passion for gardening ties together her experiences and the people she loves.
The support to live your passion
Being a resident at Aeralife Bayswater hasn’t stopped Yvonne from finding any opportunity to garden; she has the support she needs to make her passion a reality. “The lifestyle team here is amazing,” she says. “They provide me with quality potting mix, and they’re always there when I need help with the bigger tasks.” The support Yvonne receives from the team ensures she can continue doing what she loves, while still being mindful of her health and well-being.
Yvonne has always been independent, and Aeralife respects her ability to make her own choices. “I get to decide how much I want to do. If I feel like doing more, I can, and if I need help, I know they’re there for me,” she says. This autonomy is a key part of what makes life at Aeralife fulfilling for Yvonne. Whether she’s tending to the begonias she’s cultivated or propagating new plants, she knows she has the freedom to live her life in a way that suits her.
Living with purpose and joy
Gardening isn’t the only activity that brings Yvonne joy. She is also very involved in the community at Aeralife, enjoying everything from playing cards with friends to attending church services and social events. “Life here is full of opportunities,” she says. She stays connected with her family, including her son nearby and her daughters across the country, and loves having them visit when they can.
Even though Yvonne spends much of her time in the garden, she ensures she balances her activities with other aspects of life. “I love having choices. I don’t have to spend all my time gardening. I can be social, enjoy my hobbies, and get outside when I’m up for it,” she explains. For Yvonne, it’s all about finding a balance that allows her to live fully and on her own terms.
A place where residents thrive
Aeralife’s thoughtful support and commitment to helping residents live their passions has allowed Yvonne to continue gardening well into her later years. She’s able to enjoy her favourite activities, while still having the choice to pursue new ones as well. This balance of support, independence, and encouragement is what makes Aeralife Bayswater feel like home.
“I’m so grateful for the team here. They’ve really made it possible for me to continue doing what I love. And gardening gives me so much joy,” Yvonne says with a smile. It’s clear that for Yvonne, gardening is more than just tending plants – it’s a way of life, and at Aeralife, she’s found the perfect place to keep her passion growing.
