Making The Move to Worry-Free Cedar Crest

While living at Fox Hills, a 55-plus community in Rockaway, N.J., David and Judy Solomon visited friends living at Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J. 

"Three couples we knew all moved in within a few months of each other," says David. "Once they were settled in, they couldn't stop talking about how great life was there. So, we decided to pay them a visit."

The visit revealed to the couple just how much they were missing. First, Cedar Crest would bring them closer to their children, some of whom live nearby in Randolph. Second was the community's amenities and activities. 

Array of amenities

"Although there were clubs and organizations at Fox Hills," says David, "Cedar Crest has an abundance of exercise classes at the fitness center and seven dining venues--from cafes to full-service restaurants."

The most impressive draw was the community's on-site care. 

"There were certain things that, as we age, would become inadequate at Fox Hills," he explains. "Cedar Crest has a medical center and continuing care neighborhood on campus, both of which would support our changing needs."

"Cedar Crest is the place to be!" adds Judy.

Leading the way

The Solomons, ready to embrace a worry-free, active lifestyle, enlisted the help of Cedar Crest's realty and moving services for their October 2022 move. 

"We received recommendations on what to bring, who to hire--everything related to moving, really," recalls David. "Cedar Crest's sales staff was fantastic too. They want everyone to feel welcome and experience a smooth move."

Associate Director of Sales Katelyn Tanis notes that David and Judy are among two dozen retirees who have moved to Cedar Crest from 55-plus communities. 

"In the past few years, we've helped a lot of people move from Fox Hills and Wanaque Reserve," she says. "And recently, we welcomed a group of new residents who came from 55-plus communities in South Jersey."

'A place to socialize'

And these numbers are only slated to grow. 

"People tell us that the biggest reason they want to move here is because they feel lonely at their 55-plus community," adds Tanis. "While they may have clubhouses, get-togethers, and groups, they do not offer the level of activity and involvement we do. People see that Cedar Crest is a place to socialize and thrive!"

Wine and dine

Tanis notes that Cedar Crest's on-site restaurants are another important factor. Often, at 55-plus communities, the lack of dining options means going home and eating alone. 

"While people at 55-plus communities may host friends from time to time," she says, "residents at Cedar Crest dine with friends at restaurants--just steps from their apartment homes--every night."

"We remain very friendly with the group that moved from Fox Hills. Every Saturday night, we get together and have dinner on campus, often alternating where we go," says David. "We also like dining with new neighbors, spending the evening learning about their careers and experiences." 

David and Judy's daughter, Beth, appreciates the fact that her parents get to enjoy healthy, delicious meal options with friends whenever they want. 

"The food is excellent!" says Beth. "The restaurants serve up fresh vegetables in a variety of ways with tasty, lean meats and fish. It's exceptional."

Activities galore

Since settling into their maintenance-free apartment home, the Solomons find that they have more time to pursue their interests--and take advantage of all the community's amenities. 

"We're a 'real' part of the community now, as we're active in many groups," David says. "Cedar Crest offers 150 clubs. It's unbelievable!"

"They have a lot of exercise classes and programs to choose from," says Judy. 

Judy participates in Rock Steady Boxing, designed to support residents diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, and plays mah-jongg with friends. David works out regularly at the fitness center and attends meetings for the Current Events Club and the Democratic Club.

"Everyone is so friendly," says Judy. "Our neighbors always have a warm smile and say hello." 

"We are making loads of friends here!" adds David. 

'Everything we need'

Now that the Solomons have the peace of mind they were looking for, they can focus on making the most of their retirement. 

"It's a wonderful environment," says Judy. "We have everything we need here."

Beth is happy to see her parents living in a safer, more supportive community. "It's very comforting to know that there's extra care and help on campus, if they need it," she explains.

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Cedar Crest, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.