THE home really is where the heart is, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 homeowners found their house is more than just a roof and four walls.
The survey found that 65 per cent of people have an unbreakable emotional connection to their homes
For 56 per cent, their property represents ‘irreplaceable’ memories – it’s where their kids grew up (36 per cent).
For 37 per cent, home represented where happy moments have been enjoyed with their partner.
Time spent making their property ‘just right’ is also a key reason for the strong attachment they have to their homes.
This included furnishing their property (44 per cent), hanging pictures of loved ones on the walls (45 per cent), or creating a relaxing garden space (35 per cent).
It also emerged 73 per cent consider their home to be where they ‘feel safe and secure’, while 46 per cent see it as their ‘sanctuary.’
As such, 58 per cent would be ‘devastated’ if they had to move away to somewhere else.
The research was commissioned by the Good Care Group, which provides live-in care to those in need of assistance in their own homes.
Darren Kennedy, Managing Director, said: “Almost all of us have spent our entire lives living in just a handful of homes.
“Bringing up families, being brought up by our parents and growing up with siblings along the way.
“We are incredible at making attachments to things, whether that’s pets, the wallpaper, memorable objects or the view of the garden.
“Our homes are where we have spent thousands of hours, filling them with material things that are precious to us, as well as irreplaceable memories.”
The study also found 41 per cent consider their property to be ‘crucial’ for their mental health.
While 25 per cent said their home gives them space to express themselves, while 23 per cent said it gives them a place to pursue their hobbies.
Alison Ritchie, 68, from Livingston, said: “I love gardening, it’s my passion and where I spend much of my time during the summer months.
“My garden is also full of memories – including a table and chair from the 1920s which was given to my father by my mother.
“There is a shed built by my late husband, Phil – it still has his tools in it. So being out there is really meaningful and important to me.”
The study by The Good Care Group also found 30 per cent think moving into a care home becomes an ‘inevitability’ when you get older.
With 67 per cent admitting they were unaware live-in home care for older people or those with complex needs was an option.
Brian Howlett, 88, from Devon, said: “I have lived in my house for 60 plus years – although I did sell it and move away to New Zealand.
“But I missed it so much, I bought it again when I saw it was up for sale – I couldn’t not.”
For Brian, his home is also where he used to practice his main hobby.
He continued: “I used to be an amateur radio operator and would talk to people all over the world in my radio room.
“I still have my Axminster radio all these years later and couldn’t bear to part with it.”
