A recent survey has revealed the powerful emotional ties people have with their homes, proving that they are far more than just a place to live. The research, conducted among 2,000 homeowners, discovered that over half would be ‘devastated’ if they had to relocate. This revelation highlights the deep emotional connections people form with their homes, often filled with cherished memories and strong personal significance.
The study found that 73% of homeowners feel safe and secure in their homes, viewing them as a sanctuary. A staggering 65% reported having an unbreakable emotional bond with their property. For 56% of respondents, their homes hold ‘irreplaceable’ memories, often shared with loved ones. This includes memories made with partners (37%) and children (36%).
The time and effort invested in creating a perfect home further strengthens this deep attachment. From carefully selecting furniture (44%) to displaying family photos (45%) and crafting tranquil garden spaces (35%), homeowners pour their hearts and souls into making their houses truly feel like homes.
Alison Ritchie, 68, from Livingston, Scotland, exemplifies this sentiment. She shared, “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, and 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 Good Care Group, who provide live-in care for individuals needing assistance at home, conducted the survey. It revealed that 30% of people believe moving into a care home is an ‘inevitability’ as they age, which would mean leaving their familiar ‘sanctuary’. However, the survey also highlighted that 67% were unaware that live-in home care for older people or those with complex needs was an option.
Darren Kennedy, Managing Director for The Good Care Group, commented: “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 discovered that 41% consider their property to be ‘crucial’ for their mental health. Another 25% said their home gives them space to express themselves, while 23% said it provides a place to pursue their hobbies.
Brian Howlett, 88, from Honiton, Devon, shared: “I have lived in my house for 60 plus years – although I did sell it and move away to New Zealand for a few years. But I missed it so much, I bought it again when I saw it was up for sale. I couldn’t not, it’s where my children grew up, where I lived with my wife, and where I have pursued my hobby. 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.” These stories underscore the profound emotional significance people attach to their homes, demonstrating how they serve as more than just a roof over their heads.
