Lots to Love About Life at Avery Point

When Jane White started exploring her senior living options, she was looking for a retirement community that offers an active lifestyle, predictable monthly costs, and peace of mind for the future.

Avery Point, an Erickson Senior Living community in Short Pump, Va., checked all her boxes.

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Since moving into her maintenance-free home at the community in July 2025, she has participated in exercise classes and educational programs and made lots of new friends--everything she envisioned for her retirement.

Recently, Jane sat down with the Tribune to share her story and how she knows she made the right decision.

Tribune: Why did you choose Avery Point?

Jane: All the amenities and activities. There are so many things to get involved in, so I try to pace myself. The residents here are so welcoming and nice, which was another draw. I was also impressed with the fee-for-service model, because [unlike life care communities,] you don't pay for services that you may never need.

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

Jane: My monthly costs are reduced because I don't have to pay for things like cutting the grass, like I did at my old house. I no longer have to shovel snow or pay someone to do it. If anything needs to be fixed or replaced, I contact the community's General Services team. When the filter in my refrigerator needs to be changed, I reach out to them, and they're here in no time. And if they can't fix an appliance, they'll replace it--for free!

Last winter, we had a terrible ice storm here. If I were still in my old house, I would be a nervous wreck, worrying about something happening to the roof. Now, I don't have to worry about any of that, and it feels wonderful.

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

Jane: I've gotten into dance aerobics, which is so much fun. I also take other workout classes. I love to walk all around the community, too. When it's winter, I walk through the entire campus indoors, as all the buildings are connected.

I took a class on stress management here that I liked, and Avery Point sponsored a Citizen's Academy course in the Goochland County Sheriff's Office. That was great because I learned so much about the county we live in.

Avery Point also brings in a lot of wonderful speakers and musical groups that I've enjoyed. I love going on excursions with the Trips and Travel Group--the wine tours are my favorite. Everything here is fun.

Tribune: Has moving to Avery Point enhanced your social life?

Jane: Yes! Talking and spending time with the residents here makes me feel great. So much socialization takes place during activities or when having dinner. I've met so many people. We're like a big family. I'm part of a "coffee in the morning" gathering. A bunch of us get together in the bar area of The Cardinal restaurant. We push tables together and just sit and talk while we drink coffee and eat pastries. I really love the people here.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Jane: I feel safe here because there are security staff members who are trained in emergency response. If you have an emergency, you just pull the emergency cord [in your home] or call, and they'll be there in minutes.

While I haven't had to pull the cord for myself, my cat, Kenda, pulled the cord once by accident. I didn't know she did it, and someone started talking to me through the communication box. I apologized and said that my cat had pulled the cord. Right after, a member of the security team was knocking at my door to see if I was okay. They were all so nice about it. I got to see firsthand how quickly they respond if it were an actual emergency.

Knowing that a doctor is right here [at the on-site medical center], if I need him, also provides peace of mind.

Tribune: How do you know you made the right decision?

Jane: Because I'm happy--it's as simple as that! I love everything about this place. It's so relaxing and fun here. Every night before bed, I go out on my balcony and thank God that I'm here. I really do. I feel good, and it's uplifting.

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

By Michele Wojciechowski