Who says retirement is for slowing down? You have time to pursue your passions! Just ask prolific author John Thompson-Gray. The 81-year-old retiree has turned keyboard warrior in his golden years, pursuing his passion for writing and penning seven published novels while living at TriCare’s Compton Gardens Retirement Community in Aspley, North Brisbane, Queensland.
Meet novelist John Thompson-Gray
You can find longtime resident, John, at the TriCare’s Compton Gardens Retirement Community library. Featuring more than 2000 books! There’s no wonder it has inspired many residents to pick up the pen. So much so, John has his very own writing sanctuary in his home where he spends hours writing and researching.
Combining extensive research into Australia’s World War II history and his love of literature, John has published 7 novels, including two best sellers on the Japanese bombing on Darwin in 1942.
But he’s not slowing down.
“I decided to live at TriCare’s Compton Gardens as it’s the ideal location to start some serious writing,” John says.
“The staff and residents have been a wonderful support, and some have been the most helpful sources of information.
“I worked as an executive engineer for over 25 years, and while I loved my job, it left me very little time to follow my deepest desire of becoming an author.
“The village’s library is the perfect space to be inspired. Most of my works are historical non-fiction so there’s nothing more motivating than being surrounded by some of the greats.”
Why having a hobby in retirement is important
The research is in… keeping hobbies during retirement keeps your mind young!
While it’s well-documented that physical activity could help ward off dementia, recent research from the University of South Australia suggests retirees who take up hobbies could also be keeping their minds young.
The study finds certain types of sedentary behaviour could be beneficial in delaying or preventing dementia by giving the brain a ‘work out’.
It specifically highlights reading, listening to music, playing an instrument, crafting, socialising and even religious activities, such as praying.
John agrees, “I’m certainly exercising my mind when I write,” he says.
“I was an engineer my entire life, now I engineer both fiction and non-fiction in a really positive, supportive environment at my retirement village.”
TriCare Compton Gardens Retirement Village offers a wide variety of activities ranging from Tai Chi, aqua aerobics, yoga, to billiards, card group and the immensely popular happy hour.
Retirement is not the time to take a backseat
At our Compton Gardens Retirement Community, residents are encouraged to pursue their passions and take up those secret ambitions, which often take a back seat during working life.
“The beauty of retiring is that it has given me time to do what I always wanted, and TriCare has given me the space, a supportive environment, and allowed me the opportunity to give writing a serious go,” John says.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have my works published, but really, that’s just the icing on the cake.
“I’m surrounded here by friends, exploring new horizons and taking up passion projects. It’s just a feeling of great joy and excitement. And if it helps keep our minds sharp, well that’s even better!”
Village Manager Simon Bassett said John’s attitude and success were inspiring and infectious.
“We have residents taking up activities they never thought they’d be able to revisit,” Simon says.
“It’s not only writing. We have painters and musicians who are developing these hidden talents. It’s so rewarding to encourage and foster these ambitions and see the residents flourish.”
Pursue your passions with TriCare
Village Manager Simon Bassett is impressed with the residents’ achievements.
“Our residents are gifted in all different aspects,” Simon says.
“It’s amazing to see.
“We have had numerous residents become best-selling authors since moving in, and it still amazes me every time.
“We have hosted several events in our Compton Gardens library space and auditorium to celebrate our authors and their inspiring stories.
“We have welcomed politicians, professors, authors, and the wider community to our village and believe that no matter how old you may be, you can always accomplish what you set your mind to.
“It just shows that keeping your mind active when in retirement keeps you young at heart.”
TriCare supports residents across all its retirement villages to pursue their passions and develop new skills and talents.
All TriCare Villages have a comprehensive program of activities that supports residents in pursuing their dream hobbies.
For more information on TriCare’s Aged Care Residence and Retirement Living, visit https://www.tricare.com.au/ or say hello to one of their friendly staff today.
