Why JoAnne Andryszak Loves Living at Woodleigh Chase

If you asked residents of Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., why they love living there, you'd hear a wide variety of reasons.

Some will tell you about the freedom that comes with leaving maintenance and upkeep behind. Others will point to the friendships they've formed, the activities they enjoy each day, or the peace of mind that comes from having quality health care on site.

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While every resident's experience is unique, they all have one thing in common--moving to Woodleigh Chase has made their retirement more rewarding.

Resident JoAnne Andryszak recently sat down with the Tribune to share why she chose Woodleigh Chase, why she's loving community life now, and how she knows she made the right decision.

Tribune: What attracted you to Woodleigh Chase?

JoAnne: I retired two years ago and was living alone in a four-bedroom house in Catonsville, Md. I wanted to be in a community with activities, restaurants, and opportunities to develop friendships.

My mom worked at Charlestown, [an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville,] and later lived there for 16 years. I also worked in Erickson's finance department for 13 years.

I chose Woodleigh Chase to be closer to my daughter, who lives in Alexandria, Va., but there was never any question that I would choose an Erickson community.

Tribune: Did the financial structure at Woodleigh Chase factor into your decision to move?

JoAnne: Absolutely. I'm very familiar with the entrance fee* and how it works because I went through the process with my mother. I know that money will be there for my estate to pass on to my family.

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

JoAnne: I lived in my house for 36 years, and over time, I grew tired of the responsibility of taking care of the house, yard work, and repairs. When it came to hiring help, I always worried whether I was hiring the right person or whether the cost was reasonable.

I had a lot of trees in my backyard, so every time a storm came through, I worried that one of them would come down and cause damage. Now, it is a relief not to have that kind of worry. Also, when it snows, you can appreciate the beauty of it, because you don't have to shovel or clean off your car!

Tribune: What are some of your favorite things to do on campus?

JoAnne: There are so many options. I can walk down to my exercise classes in the morning. I use the pool, and it's wonderful. I'm learning new things like how to play mah-jongg and rummikub, which I really like.

Tribune: Does living at Woodleigh Chase provide peace of mind?

JoAnne: Having experienced both sides, first as a family member and now as a resident, it's a relief. When my mother lived at Charlestown, I knew she was safe, taken care of, and had people around her to socialize with. Now, my kids feel the same way about me. They know that I am happy and safe and building friendships.

Tribune: Are you glad you moved to Woodleigh Chase?

JoAnne: Yes! Right away, I knew this was where I needed to be. I have already met so many wonderful new friends, and I love my apartment--it's perfect for me. I love having a screened balcony. I sit in my living room, open my balcony door, and let the fresh air in. I couldn't be happier.

Tribune: What advice would you give to someone considering a move?

JoAnne: I would ask, "What is holding you back?" If you are tired of taking care of a house and want more opportunities to meet people and develop friendships, then it's time to move.

My best advice is to move while you can still enjoy all the things that Woodleigh Chase offers!

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

*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.

By Danielle Rexrode