Lots to Love About Life at Greenspring

Artie and Sharon Raphael believe that planning ahead opened the door to the vibrant retirement they always wanted.

Since moving into their maintenance-free home at Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va., in April, they've enjoyed participating in dozens of classes, clubs, and activities as well as spending more time with family.

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Recently, Artie and Sharon sat down with the Tribune to share their story and how they know they made the right decision.

Tribune: What led you to consider Greenspring?

Artie: Before moving here, we lived in a continuing care retirement community in New York for eight years, so we already appreciated the benefits of community living. The main reason we wanted to move was to be closer to our son, Aaron, his wife, and our two granddaughters. We wanted to spend more time with them as they grew up.

We explored several retirement communities. Thanks to our Priority List status at Greenspring, we were able to participate in a Live the Life stay, spending two nights on campus to experience the community firsthand. It gave us the opportunity to meet residents and get a true feel for daily life. After that visit, we knew Greenspring was the right fit for us.

Tribune: How was your move?

Artie: Moving to another state is a big undertaking, but Greenspring helped us every step of the way. The community's planning and moving consultant visited us in New York, walked through our house with us, helped us think through the downsizing process, and offered practical advice about what to bring and what to leave behind. Greenspring also recommended moving companies, and the one we selected did a good job. Everything was well organized, and the entire move went very smoothly.

Tribune: How has your maintenance-free home impacted your life?

Sharon: Living in a maintenance-free residence gives us the freedom to spend our days doing the things we enjoy instead of worrying about household responsibilities. If something needs attention in our residence, we simply call the General Services team, and they're very responsive. It frees us up to pursue our interests instead of spending time taking care of a house.

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

Sharon: Gardening is one of our favorite activities, and Greenspring has a large community garden. During growing season, we usually begin our mornings by checking on our vegetables and flowers. We also stay active by participating in water aerobics, yoga, strength classes, and other programs.

Artie: I like square dancing and playing mah-jongg. We both appreciate the interfaith chapel. We're Jewish, and a resident we met during our Live the Life stay introduced us to other members of the Jewish community here. We've enjoyed Sabbath services, interfaith programs, concerts, and choir performances.

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

Sharon: Residents here have been incredibly welcoming. We've met many people through fitness classes, clubs, and dinners for new residents. Artie and I also ask to be seated with another couple when we go to dinner in one of the restaurants, which has led to several new friendships. I think joining clubs, attending classes, and putting yourself in other situations where you can meet people makes all the difference.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Sharon: One of the first things we did after moving to Greenspring was meet with the physician at the on-campus medical center. It's reassuring to know that the health care team already knows us and understands our health history, should we ever need them.

Most importantly, knowing that continuing care services are available--if our needs ever change in the future--gives us tremendous peace of mind. It gives Aaron and his wife peace of mind as well.

Tribune: What do you love most about living at Greenspring?

Artie: One of our favorite parts of living here is seeing our granddaughters. They come to Greenspring to swim, and afterward, the whole family eats dinner together. Living nearby has given us much more time together, and that's very special.

Sharon: Aaron often says that Greenspring feels like a college campus, and we understand exactly what he means. There are always opportunities to learn and people to meet. We know we made the right decision!

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

By Kelly Shue