Living Well at Woodleigh Chase

Ellyn Soefer might know the beautifully landscaped grounds at Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., better than anyone. An early riser, one of her favorite ways to start the day is with a walk around the community she calls home. It's a routine that helps her stay healthy--and meet new people.

"I'm up and out early in the morning," says Ellyn. "There are usually people out walking their dogs, and I stop to chat with them. I have gotten to know many of them."

One of the most significant benefits of living at Woodleigh Chase is the abundance of opportunities for engagement. Residents can chat with neighbors in the clubhouse, share a meal or enjoy a glass of wine with friends, join clubs and activities, or even volunteer.

Let's do dinner

Ellyn recalls that she was initially hesitant to move--even though some friends from her former Fair Oaks, Va., neighborhood had already joined the community.

"They kept telling me that I should consider moving. I kept telling them I wasn't ready," she says. "It turns out, I was! I just didn't know it yet."

For Ellyn, the community's welcoming, social atmosphere was evident from the beginning.

"Everyone is friendly here," says Ellyn. "When I was moving in, I met someone on the elevator who invited me to dinner. She introduced me to four other ladies, and we had a wonderful time."

Now, dining at the on-site restaurants is one of Ellyn's favorite ways to meet new people. "I can go down to the restaurants, and the hostess will ask if I would like to be seated at a table with others. It makes it very easy to meet people," she explains.

Clubs and connections

Ellyn has also found that participating in the community's many clubs and activities is a great way to make new friends.

"I enjoy playing bridge and mah-jongg, and I've also picked up canasta and learned new games like knee, hand, and foot. I've even started playing cornhole!" she says. "They have lectures and day trips to wineries and shows. There are so many activities to choose from."

According to Community Resources Coordinator Isobel Rissing, Woodleigh Chase residents have started several clubs with the support of staff members--like Women's Wine Wednesday, Men's Coffee Club, a walking club, roundtable discussions, a choir, bingo, bridge, bocce, special trips, and trivia--to foster connections with neighbors who share similar interests.

"These clubs, groups, and classes play a crucial role in helping residents meet new people and develop friendships," says Rising. "It's one of the ways new residents meet people--and continue friendships outside of the club. Having shared interests fosters more natural connections and, in turn, nurtures a stronger sense of community."

A healthy environment

Ellyn's experience at Woodleigh Chase isn't unusual. In fact, 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.

At Woodleigh Chase, residents enjoy a wide array of social activities, wellness programs, dining options, and on-site health care that support their overall well-being. These opportunities, which promote healthier living, contrast with the adverse effects of isolation, which many seniors face when living alone in a house that no longer meets their needs.

The community's worry-free lifestyle also supports residents' well-being. Without the responsibilities of home maintenance and upkeep, residents have more time to pursue their interests, participate in clubs, and cultivate connections that enrich their lives.

"I engage in many more activities here than I did at my house," notes Ellyn. "There are so many clubs and opportunities. You can participate in as much or as little as you want."

Woodleigh Chase's convenient location, just three miles from George Mason University, also gives residents easy access to local amenities like walking trails, parks, shopping, live entertainment, volunteer opportunities, and religious services. Ellyn attends the same synagogue she did before her move.

'Meant to be'

Approaching her one-year anniversary at Woodleigh Chase, Ellyn is reflecting on her journey to the community with gratitude.

"I'm so happy I decided to move when I did instead of waiting," says Ellyn. "This was the perfect time to come. I can still participate in all there is to do and meet new people. I feel like this move was meant to be! Everything just worked out great."

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

By Danielle Rexrode