Living Well at Greenspring

People who live in retirement communities are less lonely, more physically active, and more engaged than before they moved in, according to a June 2025 U.S. News & World Report survey.

That certainly holds true at Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va., where residents have plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors through clubs, exercise classes, volunteer efforts, creative pursuits, and shared meals.

"There's so much support to engage in activities that interest you, all while meeting new people and socializing," says Eileen McGirl, who moved to Greenspring in 2023 with her husband, Jack.

Getting involved

Soon after settling into their new home, Eileen and Jack began meeting and getting to know their neighbors by dining at the community's seven restaurants.

"After each meal, I like to go around to the different tables and talk to my new friends. Jack says I 'work the room,'" notes Eileen, with a laugh. "I'm a people person. For me, doing this is energizing."

To meet even more people, the couple then explored Greenspring's long list of clubs and activities, which span an array of interests including archery, creative writing, environmental stewardship, genealogy, line dancing, and sudoku--just to name a few.

"I enjoy going to seminars in the theater with the history and Earth Keepers clubs," Eileen says. "I also attend Resident Advisory Council meetings and do yoga with Greenspring's personal trainers."

Fostering connections

Eileen was also intrigued by the idea of creating a group where retired nurses--including herself--could connect and share memories and professional insight.

She quickly found support from Community Resources Manager Carol Opiela, who helped her find a meeting space and advertise the group's first meeting.

"Quite a few nurses showed up," recalls Eileen. "After our first meeting, I asked everyone to bring something special to our next meeting, such as old pictures, their nursing cap, or their diploma. We had so much fun sharing our memories. As time went on, we began spending part of our meetings learning about changes in the field of nursing. We're looking for medical experts and research speakers to help educate."

Now, the Nurses Forever group meets on the second Tuesday of every month and often welcomes guest speakers on a variety of nursing-related topics.

"We call the group Nurses Forever because once a nurse, always a nurse," explains Eileen. "Many Greenspring nurses share their unique experiences. It's incredible to hear about their experiences working all around the world. It's such a good group of people, and we all want to share and learn."

She adds, "Starting the group is definitely something I couldn't have done if we stayed in our former house!"

Worry-free living

Residents like Eileen and Jack are able to maintain such active schedules thanks to the community's worry-free lifestyle. Home maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, is handled by the expert General Services team.

"We don't have to maintain a house, mow a lawn, or wait for someone to fix things," says

Eileen. "We also don't have to shovel snow. Instead, we spend time on the activities we enjoy and socializing with our neighbors."

Opiela says that convenience is a hallmark of life at Greenspring. "Residents can fill their calendars with activities, spend time volunteering, or take a trip and know their home is safe and cared for. That peace of mind lets them truly enjoy this chapter of life."

That same peace of mind extends to the couple's well-being. As a continuing care retirement community, Greenspring offers a range of services at the on-site medical center and higher levels of care at its continuing care neighborhood.

"Since moving to Greenspring, our lives have changed for the better. We no longer worry about the future or what would happen if we fall or get sick," says Eileen. "And our two children have peace of mind, knowing that we'll always be safe."

A vibrant retirement

Reflecting on their journey to Greenspring, Eileen and Jack believe they chose the best community they could have for the vibrant retirement lifestyle they've always wanted.

"We believe Greenspring offers the perfect mix of activity and connection. Our lives are so full, and we couldn't be happier," says Eileen. "Jack and I enjoy the freedom to each do the things we enjoy. Each day we laugh because no two days are alike here."

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing an engaging retirement lifestyle.

By Kelly Shue