Make Your Dream Retirement A Reality at Ashby Ponds

Since moving to Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., Garry Roberts has enjoyed an active, social lifestyle he couldn't attain in his old house.

"I have lived in my own home since I was 23. I've always been the one responsible for everything," says Garry, pointing to costly, time-consuming maintenance and repairs.

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But now, with a maintenance-free home and access to an array of clubs and amenities, Garry is able to pursue his interests and make new friends.

"There is always something fun or interesting to do, and I'm really enjoying spending time with my neighbors. They are friendly and outgoing," he says. "Living at Ashby Ponds is far better than I imagined!"

According to Sales Director Elizabeth Freeman, these social connections shape community life at Ashby Ponds.

"Many people arrive well-prepared and confident in their decision to move," she explains. "What often surprises them is how quickly they begin forming relationships and how naturally those connections become part of daily life."

The right fit

Garry--a lifelong Baltimore, Md., resident--was familiar with Oak Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md. When a close friend's parents moved there, he learned even more about the community's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle.

"My friend's parents were always very happy there," he says.

For a long time, Garry planned to follow a similar path and move to Oak Crest when he retired. As a result, he joined the Priority List.

However, as retirement approached, he realized he didn't have to stay near Baltimore--especially when he learned that his Priority List status applied to all Erickson Senior Living communities. That shift opened the door to exploring other Erickson communities within driving distance, including Riderwood in Silver Spring, Md.; Greenspring in Springfield, Va.; and Ashby Ponds.

During his tour of Ashby Ponds, Garry saw the amenity-rich clubhouses and various residences.

"The more they showed me, the more I was sold on the idea of Ashby Ponds," he says. "I knew this is where I wanted to be."

Early connections

With his decision made, Garry reserved a home in Leesburg Landing, the community's newest residence building.

He then joined his future neighbors at a social gathering at Ashby Ponds, allowing him to start making connections early.

"That meeting made me feel very comfortable," he says. "I met so many people in situations like mine, making an out-of-state move."

By the end of the event, Garry had exchanged phone numbers with several people to begin building friendships ahead of his move.

An active lifestyle

Since moving to Ashby Ponds in October 2024, Garry has maintained an active, engaging lifestyle filled with new friends.

"The thing I enjoy the most is the fitness center. I no longer have to get up and drive to work out," he says. "And although I went to a gym before, I never enjoyed group fitness classes. That's no longer the case! I really enjoy the Boot Camp class here. In fact, I enjoy it so much that I started doing individual exercise sessions with a trainer. She helps me work on exercises from class."

Gary also volunteers as an usher at the community's Great Oak Theater. "That was a great decision," he says. "I've met so many people, many of whom I might not otherwise have met if I simply attended the shows."

He finds that dining at Ashby Ponds' nine restaurants is another great way to meet and socialize with neighbors.

"The quality of food exceeds my expectations!" he says. "I gladly accept invitations to dinner with neighbors. My meals are now about good conversation and great food."

More freedom

Looking back at his life before retirement, Garry appreciates the freedom he has now, thanks to his maintenance-free home.

"Shortly after I moved here, there was a windstorm. My first thought was, 'I have to see if I lost any shingles.' Then, I realized, I don't have to worry about those things anymore," he recalls.

Instead, he can focus on the friends and activities that enrich his life.

"Each day offers so many wonderful, new experiences--much more than I ever imagined," he says. "I'm very happy here!"

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing a carefree retirement lifestyle.

By Kelly Shue