Make Your Dream Retirement a Reality at Maris Grove

At Maris Grove, the Erickson Senior Living community in the Brandywine Valley of Pennsylvania, residents enjoy an active lifestyle shaped by opportunities, socialization, and convenience.

Like many people considering a move, Larry and Pat Traver approached the decision carefully, touring several continuing care retirement communities and doing extensive research to understand what modern senior living offered.

"Moving to Maris Grove has turned out to be far better than I imagined," says Pat. "The residents, the staff, the endless activities--we're back to dancing again!--the volunteer opportunities, and of course, the on-site restaurants have all exceeded our expectations."

"So often, people come to Maris Grove thinking they're simply making a practical decision," says Brett Haas, sales director at Maris Grove. "What surprises them is how much more they gain; time, freedom, connection, and the ability to focus on what truly matters to them. Larry and Pat's experience reflects what we hear from many new residents."

What life could look like

During their initial visit, the Travers learned about the Priority List, the "Live the Life" overnight stay program, and opportunities to connect with resident ambassadors over dinner. These experiences helped bring daily life at Maris Grove into focus.

When they returned for an overnight stay, they took full advantage of the opportunity to explore the campus at their own pace.

"We used our free time to really walk around and see what mattered most to us," Larry explains. "We visited the Treasure Chest, sat in on an active art room session, and took a walk to the pond."

A busy calendar

Now settled in, Larry and Pat embrace a rhythm that keeps them busy in all the best ways.

Their week is anchored by regular workouts at the fitness center, which they visit three days a week. They've returned to a longtime passion, dancing, attending biweekly practices and monthly dances. They dine regularly with friends, play pool and chess, and continue discovering new activities across campus.

"We've organized our lives around things we enjoy," Larry says.

Time for fun

For Pat, the freedom to choose how she spends her time has been one of the most meaningful shifts.

"Instead of having a big house to clean, maintain, and repair, I can focus on what I want to do," she says.

"Having a smaller residence has been a joy. We kept what we truly value, and I appreciate those things so much more now."

Natural friendships

These shared experiences make it easy for the Travers to form meaningful connections. One of Pat's biggest and most delightful surprises was how quickly friendships formed. "Residents and staff are all friendly," she says. "In the beginning, many recognized us as new and made overtures to us to dine with them."

Connections grew organically, at the gym, through the Italian Social Club, at the Friday night dance, and even by simply sitting next to someone in the dining room.

"Putting yourself out there and being willing to engage goes a long way," Pat adds.

Larry agrees. "We've moved a lot over the years and always remind ourselves that there are good people everywhere. We have met so many nice people that it's hard to count."

Dining delights

In addition to a full calendar of activities, dining plays a central role in the couple's daily life at Maris Grove.

"I was blown away by the number of restaurants and the range of food," Pat says. "There's table-service dining, takeout options, and casual venues open throughout the day."

She's even expanded her palate since moving in. "I've tried foods I never would have before. I can't believe I actually like tofu now," she laughs.

Dining, they've found, is as much about connection as it is about cuisine.

"Even if you don't plan to sit with others, you always end up chatting, whether it's with the staff or neighbors nearby," Pat says. "It's incredibly social."

More independence

Before moving to Maris Grove, Pat admits she worried about whether she was ready for retirement living.

"I thought I was still too young," she says. "But now I wish we had been able to move years ago." Rather than losing independence, she feels she's gained it.

"Our house owned us," she reflects. "Now, I have time to do what I want--time to volunteer, to read, to dance, to be with friends."

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