Living Well at Oak Crest

People who live in retirement communities are less lonely, more physically active, and more engaged than before they moved in, according to a 2025 U.S. News & World Report survey.

There's no better example of this than Oak Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md., where residents have plenty of opportunities to socialize through clubs, volunteer efforts, creative pursuits, and shared meals.

A warm welcome

For Kathy and Harry Quinn, who moved from nearby Perry Hall, Md., to Oak Crest in 2021, the community's welcoming, social atmosphere was evident from the beginning.

"People are very welcoming here," says Kathy. "We have dinner with different friends throughout the month. Your world gets larger because you are meeting new people all the time."

A retired educator, Kathy has even reconnected with friends and former students.

"I ran into someone here I went to grade school with, and there are some women from my high school as well," says Kathy. "I taught one of the staff members here when she was in kindergarten, and I have even taught the children and grandchildren of Oak Crest residents."

Active and engaged

With more than 200 clubs and activities, Oak Crest offers a multitude of ways for residents to get involved and foster connections.

"There is so much to choose from," says Kathy. "We have classes from the community college and short classes through the Resident University program given by other residents. I also participate in book clubs, both on and off campus."

She continues, "Harry plays water volleyball here. We are also active with the faith community, volunteer on the welcome committee, and serve as ambassadors for sales events. We attend as many on-site concerts as we can too."

"With clubs that cater to a variety of interests, from dance and pickleball to book clubs and photography, there is practically something for everyone," says Robin Keeler, Oak Crest's resident life director. "Many residents have explored new hobbies they have never tried before, like writing a book or learning to paint. The biggest compliment we get is that residents often feel that there are so many options; it's difficult to decide among them!"

She adds, "And if a club doesn't match your interest, you can start your own group with our support."

Many ways to connect

In addition to these |clubs and activities, Oak Crest's wide array of amenities makes it even easier for residents to catch up with neighbors and make new friends.

At the fitness center, residents can sign up for group classes like Pilates and yoga or utilize the exercise equipment to meet their goals. "I exercise every morning at the fitness center," says Kathy.

The community's woodshop, theater, walking trails, and classrooms are always bustling with activity.

Yet another avenue for socialization is dining at the eight on-campus restaurants, where meals are prepared to order by skilled chefs.

"Sharing a meal with friends is just one of the many ways Oak Crest residents engage with their neighbors," says Keeler. "Oak Crest offers an incredible variety of amenities; you can find something to do seven days a week if you like."

Worry-free living

Cecelia Chandler, who moved to Oak Crest from Timonium, Md., credits the community's worry-free lifestyle for her busy social calendar. Home maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, is handled by the expert General Services team.

"And I love the fact that in bad weather, I can get from one area of the campus to another without having to go outside," she says, pointing to the climate-controlled walkways that connect buildings on campus.

Cecelia enjoys meeting new people and connecting with neighbors by attending classes, concerts, and activities.

"I take [on-site] college classes through the Community College of Baltimore County [CCBC]," says Cecelia. "It's a great way to meet people since we have that common interest right from the start."

A unique community

Keeler says that the opportunity to live in a welcoming community where you can develop meaningful friendships and enjoy a wealth of amenities and activities on campus can't be overstated.

"We are one big family, always helping and supporting each other. When you step onto the campus, there's an undeniable sense of warmth and friendliness that sets Oak Crest apart. It's something truly special that you won't find everywhere," says Keeler.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.