Living Well at Cedar Crest

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 certainly holds true at Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J., where residents have plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors through clubs, exercise classes, volunteer efforts, creative pursuits, and shared meals.

"Without the time-consuming responsibilities of home maintenance and repairs, residents are free to explore their interests and meet new people," says Resident Life Director Glenn Howard. "When you're part of a vibrant, active community like Cedar Crest, you naturally feel and live better."

A welcoming community

Barbara and Kevin Price, Connecticut residents for 40 years, weren't sure what to expect when they moved to Cedar Crest last year to be closer to their son and his family in Wyckoff, N.J.

"Moving here, we didn't know anyone," notes Barbara.

However, that didn't last long, as Cedar Crest's welcoming and social atmosphere made it easy for the couple to get to know their neighbors and make new friends.

"Cedar Crest does a good job with newcomer dinners and newcomer programs," Barbara says. "You also get to meet people through activities, and there are dozens of clubs here."

"The array of clubs and events helps residents build meaningful connections. Shared interests make it easier to start conversations and deepen bonds over time," explains Howard. "And if you don't find a group that relates to your interest, you can always start your own with our help."

Active and engaged

Barbara, who learned how to play mah-jongg not long before their move, now participates in a weekly mah-jongg group.

"It's a lot of fun!" she says. "I was in book clubs in Connecticut, so I've attended book club meetings here. I also joined the Retired Educators Group and participate in the Pen Pal Program."

With a long history of volunteer work, Barbara was also excited about the chance to support the community's Intermissions program, which offers activities for residents with dementia. "It was important to me that I could find volunteer opportunities," she notes.

Together, Barbara and Kevin joined the memoir and Baby Boomer groups and have attended several musical programs in the performing arts center and the chapel. They look forward to taking continuing education classes in the near future.

"There's no shortage of ways to get involved," says Howard. "Whether it's a dance or a trivia night, residents chat, connect, and have a good time."

Current events discussions; billiards, cards, and chess games; and music and craft groups can also be found at the vibrant community. "I enjoyed the Dance-a-Thon and Cedar Crest's Senior Olympics," Barbara says.

Other ways to connect

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

At the fitness and aquatics centers, residents can sign up for yoga, tai chi, aerobics, water volleyball, and aquacise classes--just to name a few.

"One of my main criteria [for a retirement community] was a pool and a gym. Here, there is a pool and three fitness centers!" says Barbara. "That was important because I swim five days a week."

The community's walking trails, bocce and pickleball courts, golf simulator, barbecue and firepit area, and resident-managed garden are always bustling with activity.

"We like the beautiful grounds. Kevin and I are big walkers," says Barbara. "We're not in the bocce league, but we have used the court. I am amazed at how intense bocce is here!"

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

"Our restaurants feature different menu items and special dining events, making each meal a real treat--especially if you dine with friends," says Howard.

Support your well-being

For Barbara and Kevin, these convenient activities allow them to meet new people, continue learning, and--most importantly--care for their overall well-being.

"We have a beautiful spot to live. It's safe and feels healthy," Barbara says. "If you look at the components of successful aging--mental, physical, intellectual, and emotional--you can meet them all right here. We have not been disappointed!"

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing an engaging retirement lifestyle.

By Susan Ingram