A Day in The Life at Cedar Crest

When Margaret Floyd was exploring her senior living options, Cedar Crest, the Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J., caught her eye. She was impressed with the on-campus restaurants, variety of activities, and top-notch amenities--especially the pickleball court. 

"I heard so much about the game but never played," she says. "It was a main requirement when deciding where to live because I really wanted to learn how to play."

She adds, "Cedar Crest offered everything I was looking for in terms of community, apartment style, activities, and restaurant options." 

Since moving to the community in 2021, Margaret has enjoyed playing pickleball and plenty more, thanks to her worry-free lifestyle. With maintenance a thing of the past, she has more free time to pursue her interests and pick up new hobbies! 

More free time 

Prior to her move, Margaret was always busy maintaining her large 17-room house. 

"I no longer wanted to worry about my house and all the responsibilities that went along with it," Margaret recalls. "For instance, I had to sweep the sidewalk in front of my house before 8:30 a.m. every morning, or I would be fined by the sanitation department." 

She continues, "Now, I don't have to worry about shoveling snow, taking out the garbage, or fixing a clogged sink. And when I decide to take a vacation, I don't worry about my mail!"

In her newfound free time, Margaret connects with neighbors by playing pickleball and bocce; attending the Baby Boomers Club; and exploring her creative side with the Cedar Crest Singers, Cedar Crest Chorale, and the Cedar Crest Players, a theatrical play-reading group.

"I enjoy keeping busy. I participate in 18 clubs and committees on a regular basis--and other activities, as time permits," she says. "Each day is a little different. However, I schedule one day a week where I focus solely on myself."

When she finds a spare hour, Margaret likes to participate in water aerobics and Stretch & Tone classes at the aquatics and fitness centers. She also joins friends for craft classes and games of Scrabble and Rummikub.

Giving back 

In addition to pursuing her favorite hobbies, Margaret loves giving back to the community, volunteering as a resident ambassador, and serving on the newcomers committee. 

She also puts her background in systems and technology to good use, volunteering with Cedar Crest's Neighbors Helping Neighbors program.

"I help provide free tech support to residents, whether it's a phone, tablet, computer, laptop, or even a television," she says. "When I solve a problem, it makes me feel good, seeing the happy expressions on their faces." 

Margaret supports her neighbors as a member of several Resident Advisory Council committees as well, including philanthropy; safety, security, and transportation; and elections/nominations. 

Each Sunday, when her busy week winds down, Margaret feeds her spiritual side by attending service at Cedar Crest's chapel--and serving as a Protestant lay reader and communion server.

Social butterfly

"The beauty of Cedar Crest is that you can try any activity or join any committee," she says. 

Celebrating her third year at Cedar Crest, Margaret finds that her circle of friends is always expanding, thanks to the many on-campus events, clubs, and activities that create opportunities for socialization. 

To keep up with her new friends, Margaret likes chatting over lunch or dinner in one of Cedar Crest's seven restaurants. She especially enjoys meals at the Mountainside Café and Overlook Restaurant.

"I check all the menus each day to help determine which restaurant I am going to go to," she says. "I usually go with friends, but when my family visits, I invite them to join me in our restaurants. And sometimes, I choose to sit with someone I don't know, just to meet new people."

Active and engaged

According to Resident Services Manager Drew Nieuwenhuis, Margaret's engaged lifestyle is the norm on the bustling, vibrant campus.

"Walking across campus recently, I saw dozens of residents outside playing bocce and walking together, enjoying the weather," he recalls. "Later in the day, while walking through each neighborhood, I witnessed residents playing mah-jongg, poker, Scrabble--all kinds of activities. Our residents are active and happy every day!"

Margaret couldn't agree more. "I don't think there is much here that I don't take advantage of," she says, with a laugh.

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