Ann Hales-Tooke (Letters, 19 October) suggests retirement properties as a form of hermitage. Jane Courtis’ friend also suggests a development for the elderly. I’m just puzzled how the eremitical life fits with this. We live in sheltered housing. There is now no warden. There are also some very frail and vulnerable people here. Without being aware of those around us, this would be a sad place indeed. We live in a community. There’s no denying this has been the hardest thing to become used to since we moved here but it does have its rewards. I have to say, though, that we couldn’t possibly put a notice on the door saying “Don’t knock. You’re welcome between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.! Life isn’t so tidy. Occasionally there are those who need hel