Not sure if a senior living community is right for you? You’re not alone. Change can be scary, and many seniors struggle with the idea of leaving their houses. While we know that even the most skeptical residents end up being thrilled with their decision to move into one of our senior living communities, we wondered what we could do to help those who are still on the fence about making the move. So we asked our residents, “What would you tell someone who is hesitant about moving into Eddy Senior Living?”
Here’s what they had to say.
Variety is the Spice of Life
You’d think that life in a senior living community would be boring for a retired social studies teacher who has traveled the world and taught in several countries, but not for Betty Dodds. Betty lives at The Glen at Hiland Meadows senior living community in Queensbury NY, and what she likes most about The Glen is the variety.
“Variety in the people that live here, and in the activities offered,” explains Betty. She appreciates that the community can accommodate a wide range of residents, and personally enjoys the programs, lectures, art and movies. “It was fun from the beginning, but The Glen really proved itself during the pandemic,” she adds. “We found ourselves in an uncomfortable situation, but the staff and the community found ways to make it better for everyone. There is always someone here to help and listen.”
Living Life to its Fullest
For Dr. Sue Steadfast-Wright and her husband Ted, retirement hasn’t been as much about slowing down as it has been about having the time to do more of what they enjoy. In fact, that’s a common occurrence at Glen Eddy senior living community in Niskayuna NY, where Sue and Ted have been residents since November 2001.
Unlike, the traditional image of “old folks’ homes”, the Glen Eddy is a very lively community of active seniors with no shortage of things to do. “We especially love that we have the freedom to travel worldwide now,” says Sue. “We lock up our place and know that our home is safe, secure and being watched over by the Glen Eddy staff.”
As a retired medical physician, Sue is still active in teaching two osteo classes a week to other residents, and she and Ted are known as “Glen Eddy 12th Nighters” because they are among the original residents who moved into the Niskayuna senior living community upon its opening on November 12. “We still meet with the band of original residents each November to celebrate,” she says with a smile.
When asked what surprised her most about living at Glen Eddy, Sue replied, “How much the other residents and staff members truly care about each other. There’s a real sense of community and family here.”
More Time to Do the Things You Enjoy
While many seniors may at first be reluctant to leave their houses, one thing they rarely miss is all the upkeep, yardwork and snow removal responsibilities. For Leo Kellogg, that’s one of his favorite things about moving to Eddy Hawthorne Ridge. It means less work, and more time and energy to do the activities he enjoys. “I was able to start hiking again, and my wife Diane started teaching water aerobics at the YMCA on campus, and singing with the Capital Community Voices,” says Leo. The couple also regularly attends church together.
Leo and Diane Kellogg originally chose Eddy Hawthorne Ridge senior living community in East Greenbush NY to be close to their children, but they’ve come to love living here for a number of reasons. “We like being part of a community, and around people our own age,” Leo explains. The dining services, and entertainment, as well as the clean and secure campus, also make Leo’s list of praises.
When asked what he would say to anyone hesitant about moving to Eddy Hawthorne Ridge, Leo offered, “Schedule a tour, and come take a look. Stay for a bite to eat in our bistro, or on the patio, and visit with the residents.”
“Oh, and ask about the transportation services,” he adds, referring to the community’s regularly scheduled trips to religious services, off-campus events, dining, grocery shopping and other errands.
Take a Tour of Senior Living Communities
If you’re still unsure about making the move to a senior living community, we encourage you to take Leo’s advice, and schedule a tour. Talk to our staff and residents, sample the food, and see for yourself what it’s like to live here. Call 518-280-8385 or request a tour online to visit our senior living communities in Troy, Slingerlands, East Greenbush, Niskayuna and Queensbury NY.