Fred and Joyce Thomas Shared Why They Love Living at Windsor Run

Fred and Joyce Thomas say one of the best decisions they ever made was moving to Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C. By planning ahead, they opened the door to a vibrant lifestyle filled with opportunities to pursue their interests, build new friendships, and enjoy greater peace of mind.

After spending more than a year exploring retirement communities throughout the Charlotte area, the couple moved from Sun City in Indian Land, S.C., in 2024.

Recently, the couple sat down with the Tribune to share why they made the move, why they're loving community life now, and how they know they made the right decision.

Tribune: What led you to Windsor Run?

Joyce: One of the reasons we decided to move was because we didn't want to become isolated. We watched people in our previous community become less active and spend more time inside their homes. We wanted something different for ourselves.

We wanted to stay in the Charlotte area because one of our children lives nearby. We visited seven retirement communities over the course of a year and a half, comparing amenities, services, and costs. Every time we visited Windsor Run, everyone greeted us with a smile. It made us feel like we were already home.

Another factor that mattered to us was Windsor Run's commitment to creating an inclusive environment. We have a family member who is gay and many friends in the LGBTQ+ community. It was important to us to know that they would always feel welcome visiting us in our new home. Everyone is welcome here, and we see that and feel it every day.

Tribune: How has your maintenance-free home changed the way you spend your time?

Fred: It's made a tremendous difference. I no longer spend time taking care of repairs or home maintenance. If something needs attention, we simply call the General Services team, and someone takes care of it.

Joyce: I'm grateful that Fred no longer climbs ladders to trim shrubs or tackle projects around the house!

Tribune: What are some ways you've gotten involved on campus?

Fred: I play pickleball four days a week and exercise in the fitness center. Joyce swims laps in the pool several times each week and walks regularly.

Joyce: We each enjoy our own activities, and there's plenty to choose from here.

Tribune: Is it easy to meet people and make friends at Windsor Run?

Joyce: It's easy to connect with people here. When I walk down the hall or head to the courtyard, I run into people. I often stop to talk with someone who's walking their dog. Sometimes, it's just a quick hello, and other times, it turns into a much longer conversation.

One thing we really enjoy is dining. The restaurants here are fantastic, and having so many choices makes it easy to invite someone to dinner.

We've made wonderful new friends, and I truly believe many of them will become lifelong friends.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Fred: One thing we've appreciated is how personal the on-site medical center feels. You aren't rushed through appointments, and it's easy to talk with someone when you need help. When I recently needed a prescription renewed, I simply walked downstairs, spoke with someone at the front desk, and they took care of everything. It was that easy.

Joyce: Knowing those services are available gives us peace of mind, especially our children. When we decided to move here, our oldest daughter said something I'll never forget. She told us, "Mom, you and Dad have just given us a gift."

Tribune: What advice do you have for someone who is considering a move?

Joyce: My biggest piece of advice is not to wait too long. We moved while we're still active and able to enjoy everything the community has to offer. Looking back, moving sooner rather than later was one of the best decisions we made.

Fred: Our children and grandchildren love visiting us. We no longer need a large house for everyone to gather. Instead, they come to Windsor Run, and everyone enjoys being together here. That reminds us every time they visit that we made the right choice.

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

By Kelly K. Shue