A Day in The Life at Avery Point

When Elam Jarrells and Harold Wright were exploring their senior living options, they were looking for a continuing care retirement community nearby with a diverse population, friendly neighbors, and a variety of activities. 

Living in Midlothian, Va., at the time, the couple was drawn to Avery Point, the Erickson Senior Living community in Short Pump, Va.

"As a gay couple, we wanted to live in a diverse, welcoming community," explains Elam. "We wanted to be comfortable with both staff and residents, and we found that here at Avery Point."

"They don't just talk the talk here; they walk the walk," says Harold.

Now, Elam and Harold are making the most of Avery Point's carefree lifestyle by participating in clubs and groups and volunteering on campus and within the local community--all while surrounded by supportive, caring neighbors. 

Active mornings

Three days a week, just before 8 a.m., Elam and Harold begin their day with a short walk to Avery Point's fitness center, where they participate in a group strength and fitness cardio class.

Following his workout, Harold--still working as a consultant--returns to their two-bedroom, two-bath apartment home to answer emails or take virtual calls with clients.

Once a month--after checking in with clients--Harold leads the meeting of the Talents and Talks Committee, tasked with scheduling guest artists, soloists, jazz trios, and other musicians for a variety of performances at Avery Point.

"We are lucky to attract quality, diverse, and inclusive groups of individuals to come to the community," says Harold. 

Giving back

The remainder of Elam's morning varies quite a bit. As the liaison to the Resident Advisory Council's resident life and health and wellness subcommittees, he might head to some meetings. 

Elam also volunteers with the Out of Sight Gang--a club created by Avery Point residents with vision issues--by assisting with technology and audio input for meetings on campus and driving members to appointments, as needed. He is also a member of the gardening club and serves on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee.

Two mornings a week, Elam heads to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in the nearby Lakeside section of Richmond, Va., where he's worked as a horticulture volunteer for the last ten years. A master gardener, he helps maintain the beautiful gardens and leads tours. 

"I've always been very involved in a variety of volunteer opportunities," he says. "I think it's part of being a former educator. I want to make the world around me better."

More free time

After spending the morning out and about, the two meet for lunch in their maintenance-free apartment home, which has created plenty of free time for Elam and Harold to pursue their interests. 

"I no longer spend valuable time cutting grass or weeding the flower beds," says Elam. "Instead, we can go out and have fun!"

Together, the couple volunteers at St. Mark's Episcopal Church serving as ushers, lectors, and intercessors. They also help with community dinners and prepare Christmas boxes for seniors.

On campus, they serve as resident ambassadors, enjoying lunch with prospective residents and answering their questions. They also serve on the welcome committee, greeting new neighbors and sharing what their life is like as Avery Point residents.   

As a result of their many activities, Elam and Harold find that their circle of friends is constantly growing.

Since moving in less than two years ago, "We've enjoyed more socialization here than we had in the last 20 years in our house!" notes Harold.

Entertaining evenings

Following a busy day of meetings and serving the community, they meet up with friends for dinner at one of Avery Point's three on-campus restaurants. 

After a lively meal, they either join a wine club meeting, attend a local theater production, or return to their apartment home to watch British television mysteries. 

With a passion for both theater and travel, Elam and Harold take several trips to Washington, D.C., and New York City, N.Y., to see professional theater performances. Last year, the couple traveled to Scotland and Portugal--and they look forward to a December cruise on the Rhine River and Christmas in Paris.

Each time they travel, they simply lock their door and go. "We have peace of mind, knowing our apartment is safe," says Elam.

'We love it!'

But the two don't need to leave their new home to live their lives to the fullest. 

"We always say that living at Avery Point is like being on a cruise ship that doesn't go anywhere," says Harold, with a laugh. "We love it!"

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