Living Well at Linden Ponds

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

That comes as no surprise to Roy and Patti Smith. Since moving to Linden Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Hingham, Mass., they have enjoyed a vibrant lifestyle filled with activities and interactions that keep them engaged and fulfilled.

The perfect fit

Roy and Patti--North Weymouth, Mass., residents for more than 50 years--met at Central Junior High in Hingham.

When the couple started exploring their senior living options, "It seemed fitting to return to Hingham in our retirement," says Patti. That's what led them to learn more about Linden Ponds.

"We looked at one other community, but it wasn't as nice as Linden Ponds. The campus here is beautiful," Roy says. "Plus, we wanted to move to a community with on-site medical care and assisted living, in case we need that someday."

"It's a safety net of care that we did not have in our house," adds Patti, noting that their three grown children live across the country. "That's a real advantage of living at Linden Ponds."

But what really impressed the Smiths was the community's welcoming, social atmosphere. "The friendliness of the residents is unmistakable!" says Roy. "Most people are very social."

Patti agrees, saying, "People are very friendly. Even just walking to the elevator, we will run into someone who will invite us to join them for dinner. As a result, we have groups of friends we dine with regularly."

Rewarding pastimes

With dozens of clubs and activities that relate to a range of interests, from chess and environmental stewardship to movies and poetry, Linden Ponds offers a multitude of ways to get involved and make connections.

After a rewarding career in education, Roy was excited about the opportunity to work with high school students. "I joined the scholarship committee," he says. "We awarded scholarships to 28 student employees [at Linden Ponds] this past spring."

While serving on the committee, Roy met another resident who had worked at Boston College.

"Together, we decided to put together a packet of information for students on life after high school," he explains. "We meet with student servers before their shifts. We ask them about their plans, how we can help them, and what we can provide them. I really enjoy the interactions. We've even met with their parents as a way to provide support."

Patti is a member of the social justice committee. "I'm working to organize a book club that deals with climate change and racial justice," she says.

Arts and culture

Roy and Patti also enjoy the variety of cultural and entertainment events on campus.

"We recently attended a concert performed by a resident who imitates Lady Gaga. Where else can you say that?" says Roy, with a laugh. "And as a drama major in college, I also enjoy a resident-led series on Broadway history."

The couple takes advantage of off-campus excursions as well. They recently joined some neighbors for lunch and a boat ride down the Charles River.

And they appreciate that they can maintain ties to the local community they know and love. "We attend the Old Ship Church in Hingham," says Patti.

Worry-free living

Residents like the Smiths are able to maintain such busy, active calendars thanks to the community's worry-free lifestyle. Home maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, is handled by the expert General Services team.

"I used to worry about hurricane season," says Roy. "There were years we had some terrible hurricanes with multiple trees down. Now, I no longer worry about the maintenance and upkeep. It's so much more relaxing not to worry about all those things."

Instead, the couple spends time exploring their interests and making new friends. But the best part of living at Linden Ponds, the couple says, is the supportive community

of neighbors.

"One thing that really strikes me is just how much people really care for each other," says Patti. "There is a real sense that if another person needs help, they will be taken care of by their community."

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

By Kelly Shue