Staff Members' Relatives Thrive at Ashby Ponds

At Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., staff members witness firsthand the benefits of the vibrant, worry-free lifestyle residents enjoy. As a result, many have encouraged their own loved ones to consider a move to the community.

One of those staff members is Sales Associate Mackenzie Branch, who suggested that her grandmother, Patricia Sherfey, look into Ashby Ponds. "I never would have suggested Ashby Ponds if I didn't truly believe in it," she says. "It wasn't a sales pitch--I just wanted the best for her."

"Mackenzie was very professional and didn't influence me one way or the other. She made it clear that the decision was mine," recalls Patricia.

After doing her own research, Patricia was impressed and could see why hundreds of retirees have decided to make the move. Since moving to Ashby Ponds in October 2025, she has enjoyed making new friends, participating in activities, and spending more time with her granddaughter!

Finding the right fit

When Patricia started thinking about her senior living options, she was residing in a large house in Annandale, Va.

Realizing that maintaining a large house no longer made sense for her lifestyle, she moved into an apartment in Falls Church, Va., while continuing to explore her options.

"My best friends had already moved to Ashby Ponds, so I visited a few times. I loved the atmosphere," recalls Patricia. These visits, combined with her granddaughter's insight, gave Patricia a clear sense of what life at Ashby Ponds was like.

She returned to the community several times to walk the campus and tour various residences. During one of her visits, Patricia toured the one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath Bradford floor plan she now calls home.

"When I walked into the Bradford, it felt like home. I knew this is where I should be!" she says.

A sense of belonging

Since Patricia's move, Branch has watched her grandmother form many new friendships. The sense of belonging she often describes to prospective residents quickly took shape in a very personal way.

"When we walk through the hallways together, she knows the majority of people we pass," says Branch. "It's not just about having friends; it's about having a community behind you."

"There's companionship here," notes Patricia. "Everyone is so friendly, helpful, and kind. When you're living on your own in a house, you don't have that same opportunity to meet people."

Patricia's sense of belonging has translated into an active, engaged lifestyle. Within weeks of her move, she joined a book club in her residence building, signed up for a bocce team, and began serving as an usher for the entertainment committee.

She regularly visits the fitness center, strolls along the community's walkways, and has taken part in group trips to nearby Washington, D.C.

"I like being involved," she says. "Even something like the Paws on the Pond group. It's for dog lovers, but you don't need a dog. It's just another way to meet people."

Peace of mind

In addition to a more vibrant lifestyle, Patricia's move has brought peace of mind. "Everything I need is right here, and everyone is so helpful," she explains. "It's very comforting."

For Branch, that comfort translates into reassurance for both her and her family.

"I'm here five days a week, so I'm right around the corner," she says. "But even when I'm not, I know so many people here. There's always someone looking out for her. She's never alone, and that means everything to our family."

And Patricia has come to know the staff just as well as they know her. "I always say that I have a lot of adopted grandchildren here," she says, with a smile. "Everyone says, 'Hi, Grandma Pat!' It makes me feel at home."

Time together

One of the biggest changes since Patricia's move is how often she and her granddaughter see each other. Now, quick visits are a regular part of their weekly schedule.

"I see my grandma more now than I ever did before," Branch says. "Even if it's just a stop by my office for a hug and a quick catch-up, it's something we didn't have before."

Patricia agrees, saying, "Before, we didn't see each other as much because of the distance. Now, it's easy. It makes the time we spend together really special."

And since Patricia recently became a resident ambassador, welcoming prospective residents and sharing her own experiences, they have been spending even more time together!

"She also helps with sales events," Branch says. "It's something we can do together, which makes it even more meaningful."

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

By Kelly Shue