Ann's Choice Residents Appreciate Worry-Free Lifestyle and Social Connections

Longevity studies show that meaningful connections, minimal stress, a sense of community, and having a purpose in life are all factors that contribute to a long, healthy, and happy life.

Residents at Ann's Choice, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bucks County, Pa., have all of these factors at their fingertips with maintenance-free living in comfortable apartment homes, amenities and clubs for every interest, and plenty of volunteer opportunities. Whether you prefer working out in the fitness center, walking the landscaped grounds with a furry friend, or pursuing a new hobby, residents say that being part of a supportive, active community allows you to live life to the fullest.

Community matters

Ethel and James Donnelly moved to Ann's Choice in 2014. The couple found their perfect apartment home in the Keystone - one of three independent living neighborhoods on campus - and agreed that it was "the best move we ever made."

"James liked it. He was happy here," says Ethel. Unfortunately, he passed away nine months after their move. "I had a feeling that he knew time was nearly up. He insisted, 'I think we should move to Ann's Choice.' I think he wanted me settled - to have a community around me."

A couple years later, Ethel's younger brother Michael joined the continuing care retirement community, which meant a lot to her. His apartment home, located in the Village neighborhood, is just "a five minute stroll away when I go through the climate-controlled walkway," notes Ethel. "It's convenient having him close."

Social connections

Deborah Olcese, sales director for Ann's Choice, says it's the combination of the worry-free lifestyle and the opportunities for social connection that residents appreciate most.

"People feel better when they don't need to worry about daily chores, like the upkeep of a house or preparing dinner," says Olcese. "At Ann's Choice, residents don't have to worry about anything! All of the 'what ifs' are taken care of here. There are activities for every interest - over 150 different activity groups and organizations - so you don't even need to drive off campus. It's proven that people do better when they live in an uplifting environment."

Ethel agrees, pointing to the ease of making meaningful connections at Ann's Choice. She explains that when she and James first moved in, they would sit with different people at the various restaurants on campus to meet new faces.

The array of dining options, Ethel says, was one of the main benefits of moving to Ann's Choice. "James always told people that we wouldn't have to cook anymore … not that he was familiar with the kitchen," she says with a laugh.

And now that she has established friendships on her own, she enjoys having a full schedule. Ethel gets dinner with her neighbors regularly - at least a couple of nights a week in the Keystone's pub area. On Fridays, she meets up with another group, taking wine into the dining room to sit and chat.

She keeps her mind active as well, playing cards, Mexican train dominoes, and mah-jongg several times a week with her neighbors.

Freedom to pursue interests

Before moving to Ann's Choice, the Donnellys had lived in a 55-plus community, which Olcese says is common among residents at Ann's Choice.

"Many people realize that they really want the enhanced benefits of living in a continuing care community," Olcese notes. "Residents can enjoy nutritious, made-to-order meals, fitness classes, and lots of opportunities to stay active. If they need it, they can request rides to off-site doctor appointments - or can walk a short distance to the onsite medical center, staffed with full-time doctors. At 55-plus communities, you won't find that kind of person-centered approach. At Ann's Choice, we care about your overall well-being, now and in the future."

She adds, "Many people come here, and suddenly, they're more active than they've ever been. Adult children even call the sales office looking for their parents - residents become so engaged in the community that they haven't found time to pick up the phone."

Ethel agrees. "I'm more involved than I was when we lived in our house. And I've made so many good friends here!  Plus, there's financial security and everything is maintenance-free. If you have a problem, you just call general services. The worry-free living and the great friendships make me happy."

Invest in your future self at Ann's Choice. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!