Make Your Dream Retirement a Reality at Woodleigh Chase

Cathy Tyre never expected to find a new place to call home during her 2024 trip to Virginia. But a visit to a friend living at Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., revealed a vibrant, worry-free lifestyle that was better than she could have ever imagined.

"My friend gave me a tour of the campus, and I instantly fell in love with Woodleigh Chase," Cathy recalls. "Everything I needed was right here, and everyone was so welcoming."

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Freed from the burdens of homeownership like mowing lawns, raking leaves, and making ongoing repairs, residents have more time to participate in engaging activities, make new friends, and enjoy an array of on-site amenities.

'A new adventure'

Cathy, a California native, had envisioned a five-year plan to trade her three-bedroom condo--just a five-minute drive from the beach--for an apartment or condo in Virginia near her daughter.

However, after just one visit to Woodleigh Chase, her vision for the future changed. She returned to the community the next day to join the Priority List. "I especially liked that the community was brand-new and close to my daughter," she says.

"When I told my daughter that I was moving, she almost fell off the couch," Cathy recalls, with a laugh.

"Everything happened so quickly, but I thought, 'Why wait?' I didn't want my daughter traveling back and forth to California every time I sneezed, and I was ready for a new adventure."

Sales Director Nahid Young isn't surprised by Cathy's story, as she often sees prospective residents' attitudes shift once they visit the campus.

"Once people visit the community in person, they discover it's nothing like they expected--in fact, it's much better," says Young. "They are impressed when they tour the amenities and experience the vibrant energy on campus. The sense of belonging quickly becomes apparent as they interact with friendly residents and see the social aspect of community living."

She adds, "Many visitors leave with a renewed perspective, realizing that Woodleigh Chase offers not just comfort and convenience, but an enriching lifestyle."

Enjoying retirement

When Cathy returned to her condo in Solana Beach, Calif., she started getting ready for her move. Just six months later, in May 2025, she received the keys to her new home at Woodleigh Chase and began enjoying the active, worry-free retirement she'd always hoped for.

"I never thought I could enjoy a lifestyle where I can swim year-round and be so active," Cathy says. "It's wonderful to have so many clubs and activities right here. I travel with a group called the Woodleigh

Chasers, help welcome new residents to my building, and recently became a resident ambassador. I take classes at the pool, spend time scrapbooking, and I'm even a substitute teacher for English."

Since her move to Woodleigh Chase, Cathy has found it easier than ever to meet people and make new friends.

"I meet people all the time because everyone here is so friendly and welcoming. At the same time, if I want to relax and regroup in my apartment, I can do that too. No one pressures you to get involved or makes you feel guilty for taking time for yourself," she says.

Sound advice

"If this retirement lifestyle is what you've been looking for, consider scheduling a pressure-free, personalized tour," says Young. "Seeing the community firsthand gives you a much clearer sense of what Woodleigh Chase has to offer."

Visits are tailored to highlight amenities that matter most to you, including active spaces like the pool and clubrooms or more relaxed areas such as the outdoor patios and lounge areas.

"And, if you'd like, we can also arrange for you to have lunch with a current resident, so you can hear about daily life directly from someone who lives here and ask any questions you may have," Young adds.

Reflecting on her journey to Woodleigh Chase, Cathy offers some practical advice for anyone considering a move:

"I think it's important to move here while you are still healthy and can enjoy this lifestyle and all the opportunities here!" she notes.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Danielle Rexrode