Living Well at Seabrook

When Deborah "Debbie' Neville and Vince Raneri helped Debbie's brother move into a continuing care retirement community in Seattle, Wash., they were impressed by the benefits of vibrant, maintenance-free living.

Back home in Sarasota, Fla., after enduring three hurricanes in two months, they decided it was time to find a community that offered both security and social engagement. Their search led them to Seabrook, an Erickson Senior Living community in Tinton Falls, N.J., where they found not just a new home, but a sense of belonging.

Making connections

The couple, former high school sweethearts who reconnected after 43 years and married 10 years ago, moved from a community of single-family homes. "People kept to themselves and we felt a bit isolated," says Vince.

A recent U.S. News & World Report survey found that residents of senior living communities experience reduced feelings of isolation and loneliness, and are better able to form and develop friendships with others. For Vince and Debbie, that has certainly proven true.

"When we arrived at Seabrook last February, all of a sudden, we found ourselves mentally and emotionally connected with people every day," Vince explains. "We were talking to people, dining with them, and participating in activities. We're no longer feeling bored and isolated."

Debbie agrees. "I remember a lot of years walking through malls, knowing no one, and feeling lonely and isolated," she says. "At Seabrook, we walk out our door and see people we have relationships with and care about."

According to Resident Life Director Laura Berry, that sense of connection is at the heart of Seabrook's mission.

"We intentionally provide opportunities for people to socialize when they want to, which is vital for happiness and well-being," Berry explains. "Our environment encourages residents to participate in events and programs they already enjoy while meeting like-minded people. They also have the opportunity to embrace lifelong learning and new experiences, meaningful connections along the way."

Debbie and Vince enjoy time outdoors through the community gardening club, tending vegetables in their individual parcel. They also play bingo regularly and work out together in the fitness center, where Debbie participates in personal training sessions. Vince enjoys card games like pinochle and poker, while Debbie stays active in the Retired Teachers Club and serves on the steering committee of the Seabrook Active Learners (SAL) group, which hosts a range of adult education classes throughout the year.

Both are looking forward to resuming play in the outdoor bocce league this spring, and Vince has volunteered as a team captain.

"Physically, mentally, and emotionally, I'm feeling much more challenged and fulfilled," Vince says.

Seabrook also welcomes resident ideas for new programs. The couple is currently working with resident life staff to create a cornhole club and suggested a derby party to celebrate the annual thoroughbred race in early May.

"I'm having fun sampling the activities, like going into a bakery shop," Debbie laughs. "I'm currently taking four different SAL classes, and I may offer to teach a plant-based cooking class."

Sharing in the excitement

The move to Seabrook was so smooth for Vince and Debbie that they soon volunteered to serve as resident ambassadors, helping others in the decision-making process. They lead tours of prospective residents, even showing their own home, which includes a laundry room with a butler's pantry, ample storage for Debbie's cooking appliances, and a dedicated coffee station.

At meals in one of Seabrook's five on-site restaurants or at community events, the couple often reconnects with people they once toured or greeted as newcomers.

"We're so happy to help people experience the joy at Seabrook," Debbie adds. "Seeing people in the elevator or when we're walking, they're happy and smiling. We also have had many of our friends visit, and some are planning to make Seabrook their home, too."

Loving life

In the year since their move, Debbie and Vince couldn't be happier. They agree Seabrook stands apart, not only for its maintenance-free lifestyle, but also for the warmth of its community.

"Life is good!" says Vince.

Their journey came full circle recently as their enthusiasm inspired Debbie's brother to move from Seattle to Seabrook.

"This is really where your life begins," Debbie says. "It's exciting!"

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

By Linda Esterson