Lots to Love About Life at Ann's Choice

When Mark and Marilyn Bernheisel moved to Ann's Choice, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bucks County, Pa., they didn't have far to travel. As longtime Ivyland, Pa., residents, they watched Ann's Choice take shape and grow into a vibrant community just a mile from their house.

This proximity was a significant draw for the couple, but Ann's Choice offers many other benefits they wanted in retirement, including a worry-free lifestyle, meaningful connections, and peace of mind for the future.

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Tribune recently asked Mark and Marilyn how they know they made the right decision and why they're encouraging others to make the move sooner rather than later.

Tribune: What led you to consider Ann's Choice?

Marilyn: My mother's best friend was one of the first residents here. We spent a lot of time with him and saw firsthand how well residents were cared for. Even the small things, like someone checking in on him each day, gave us tremendous peace of mind. We also loved that we could stay in the Bucks County area we knew so well.

Tribune: What prompted you to make the move?

Marilyn: We were on the Priority List at Ann's Choice. When a close friend--who was our age--passed away, her family was left with the enormous task of handling two homes and all of her belongings. That really opened our eyes. We learned that we wanted to make decisions for ourselves while we were healthy and able to enjoy the process. Because we moved when we did, we weren't pressured. We had time to find the perfect residence and thoughtfully downsize.

Tribune: How has your new home impacted your life?

Mark: It's maintenance-free. I don't have to worry about landscaping, shoveling snow, or finding someone to fix things around the house.

Marilyn: I appreciate how easy life is. If something needs fixing, I send an email [to the community's General Services team], and it's taken care of.

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

Mark: I'm part of the ROMEO (Retired Outstanding Men Enjoying Ourselves) Breakfast Club, the veterans' club, and some of the social groups. I was a woodworker before moving here, and I still enjoy creating things. I also taught myself how to use a 3D printer and now make jewelry and small sculptures.

Marilyn: I've become very involved in the pottery studio, and I volunteer at the Treasure Chest, our on-campus thrift shop. One of the things closest to my heart is a storytelling program we created. We read to residents who have visual impairments and to residents in Rose Garden, [the community's continuing care neighborhood]. I was an elementary school teacher and a high school counselor, so it has been incredibly rewarding. I'm also involved with the Red Hats, the Baby Boomers group, and the Explorers, where we visit local attractions and museums.

Tribune: How has Ann's Choice enhanced your social life?

Marilyn: It's expanded tremendously. We have so many friends that if we didn't keep calendars on our phones, we wouldn't know who we were having dinner with! We've traveled with people we've met here and hosted new friends at our shore house.

Tribune: What do you love most about Ann's Choice?

Marilyn: It's comforting to know that we're in a safe environment. The medical center is convenient, and higher levels of care are available, if we ever need it. I also love the sense of community. We lived in a small town where everyone knew everyone, and we have that same feeling here. There are wonderful dining options and so many opportunities to stay active and connected. Some days, our biggest decision is figuring out which restaurant we're going to eat in!

Mark: I've heard Ann's Choice described as a cruise ship that never leaves the dock, and that's exactly what it's like. Everything is taken care of, including your meals, so you can spend your time doing the things you truly enjoy.

Tribune: What would you tell someone who is considering a move to Ann's Choice?

Mark: Don't wait until you have to move. Do it while you have choices and can truly enjoy everything the community offers.

Marilyn: If you can make it work financially, do it. We have never been sorry. One of the greatest gifts we've given our children is peace of mind. They know we're happy, supported, and surrounded by friends.

To learn more about vibrant, carefree senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Julia Collins