Don Beutel Loves All the Amenities Available at Oak Crest

If there's a phrase that perfectly describes the lifestyle at Oak Crest, the Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md., it's carpe diem--"seize the day." 

Without having to stress about maintenance and repairs, residents have plenty of time to make social connections and pursue the hobbies they love. 

That's certainly been true for resident Don Beutel, who served as a pastoral associate at Oak Crest for six years--giving him a firsthand view of the engaging, worry-free lifestyle--before he moved to the community in 2019. 

Since then, he's taken advantage of the variety of activities and amenities on campus to live life to the fullest. "Every day is something different!" he says.

A full life

Throughout the week, Don is busy meeting friends for coffee, swimming in the pool, and exercising at the fitness center. He frequents the on-site bocce courts and putting green and enjoys walking on the nature trail and riding his bike. 

In addition, he leads a men's Bible study and fills in when needed at the chapel.

"I also serve on a committee for the Resident Advisory Council and volunteer as a Resident Ambassador at sales events," says Don. 

And as if that's not enough, he plays cards with his neighbors, goes golfing once a week, and strives to walk 10,000 steps every day. 

"Other than that, I have nothing to do," he jokes.

Having all maintenance taken care of has given Don lots of time to do the things he enjoys. 

Don says, "I lived in a four-bedroom, 3,200 square foot brick rancher in Perry Hall for 32 years. I was tired of the maintenance and the yardwork--mowing the grass, shoveling snow, and raking leaves."

Now, instead of working outdoors, he gets to relax on his patio, surrounded by flowerbeds filled with geraniums and begonias.

"Having an outdoor space was important to me. I enjoy spending time out there," says Don.

The 87-acre campus also offers plenty of space throughout the community for all to delight in.

Design your day

Don also likes the easy-going atmosphere at Oak Crest. 

"Everyone here is so friendly, and I appreciate the fact that you can be as busy or involved as you want to be," he says. 

"With more than 200 groups on campus, finding ways to get involved at Oak Crest is super easy," notes Dana Huntington-Smith, community resources manager. "Whether you love woodworking, quilting, painting, acting, singing, or dancing, chances are you will find someone who shares your passion." 

With a wide range of activities such as yoga classes, pickleball, and gardening, residents can spend their days however they want. 

And thanks to the community's climate-controlled walkways, everything at Oak Crest is just a short, indoor walk away. You can do your banking, shopping, get a haircut, take a college class, meet friends for a drink or a bite to eat in a restaurant, exercise at the fitness center, or grab a book from one of three libraries. 

As busy as you want to be

"You could stay busy from morning to night and do it all over again the next day if you'd like," says Huntington-Smith. "If you're looking to stay active, there are plenty of ways to do that at Oak Crest. Our community thrives through the talents and gifts our residents share with one another. And if there's not a club that matches your interest, we can help you start your own group."

She adds, "Of course we also have the perfect environment for relaxing! That's the best part about the Oak Crest lifestyle--you can do exactly what you want, when you want!"

The best choice

All these amenities and activities made Oak Crest the clear choice for Don's retirement. 

"As a minister, I had the chance to visit several retirement communities in the area--and even considered moving into a condominium," he recalls. "However, Oak Crest was the one that truly met my needs. By choosing Oak Crest, I was able to save about $300 a month without compromising on the quality of life."

As a bonus, Don already knew many of his neighbors prior to moving in. 

"Now I see those same people, and they ask me, 'How do you like living here?' I tell them, 'It's marvelous!' And it brings a smile to their face."

To learn more about the benefits of moving to a maintenance-free community, request more information today.