When Barry and Judie Hass were weighing their senior living options, Linden Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Hingham, Mass., was a top contender.
At the time, they weren't sure whether they wanted to stay in their house, move to Linden Ponds, or continue looking at another retirement community, says Judie.
To help them come to a decision, the couple joined Linden Ponds' Priority List, which afforded them an inside look at community life.
"Our time on the Priority List gave us the opportunity to integrate into the Linden Ponds community in a much greater way than we could with just a visit and a tour," explains Judie. "We attended many events, always meeting wonderful people and receiving answers to all our questions."
In fact, their time on the Priority List was so impactful that they now call Linden Ponds home.
"Joining the Priority List is the best way to really get to know our community," says Sales Director Susan Sheehan. "Members not only receive invitations to special events, they reserve a place in line for a future home, work with our planning and moving experts, and meet other prospective residents."
Spending time wisely
After joining the Priority List, Barry and Judie began receiving invitations to a variety of exclusive social and educational events happening on campus.
"We took advantage of virtually every occasion to understand our options and opportunities at Linden Ponds," says Barry. "We attended the move expo, financial seminar, holiday party, barbecues, garden promenade, and every tour available to us as Priority List members."
Judie adds, "These events allowed us to meet Linden Ponds staff, prospective residents, and resident ambassadors, many of whom are now close friends."
Perhaps the most influential factor in the couple's decision-making process was their Live the Life stay--a multiday, overnight experience in a furnished residence that allows Priority List members to sample the amenities, dine at on-campus restaurants, and chat with current residents.
In preparation for their stay, Sales Counselor Karmin Der arranged activities that reflected their interests and hobbies. Barry, an active swimmer, tried out the pool and attended a meeting of the Men's Discussion Group. Judie observed a fitness class and attended a session of the knitting group.
"My favorite part of the stay was meeting residents and talking with them," says Judie. "Speaking with them really made the experience valuable."
"Our Live the Life stay really helped us pull our thoughts together," says Barry. "We learned what it would be like to live at Linden Ponds. It worked out very well for us."
Reaping the rewards
With their sights set on Linden Ponds, Barry and Judie started preparing for their move from nearby Hull, Mass., to their new home with Planning and Moving Consultant Lynne Smithson-Ford--another perk of the Priority List.
First, she visited them in their house to help them decide on a floor plan.
"Lynne was extremely helpful as we considered which apartment home best met our needs," says Barry. "She helped us create multiple apartment layouts based on existing furnishings. She had no difficulty addressing form, fit, comfort, and the complexities of the move-in process."
Smithson-Ford also helped the couple select a preferred real estate agent and moving company, both vetted for quality and service.
Thanks to all their research and careful preparation, Barry and Judie experienced a stress-free move and are now living life to the fullest at Linden Ponds.
In addition to volunteering as resident ambassadors, the couple belongs to the photography club and art council, coordinates the annual Linden Ponds photography show, and participates in lifelong learning classes.
Your opportunity
Reflecting on their journey to Linden Ponds, Barry and Judie credit the Priority List for helping them make this important life decision.
"Not only does the Priority List help you get the home you want, it opens up opportunities to see what life here is really like," says Barry. "Judie and I could see, from attending events and staying overnight, that this is an environment where community, compassion, and caring are among the highest values."
"If Linden Ponds is a possibility in your future, now's the right time to join the Priority List," Sheehan says. "It provides plenty of opportunities to ensure that our community is the right fit for you."
She adds, "Plus, it's risk free! The onetime $1,000 deposit is applied to the entrance deposit for your residence or will be fully refunded, should you ultimately decide to move somewhere else."
Invest in your future self at Linden Ponds. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free residences, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!
