Couple Moves from a 55-Plus Community to Embrace an Engaging Lifestyle at Riderwood

Susan and Dan Cohen loved living at Gatherings at Lyndwood, a 55-plus community in Elkridge, Md., but they knew it wasn't their forever home. 

"We had a nice home and enjoyed our neighbors," says Susan. "However, as our needs changed, we knew that the community did not provide all the resources we needed."

"We started thinking about what would happen if we needed more assistance," says Dan. 

Impressed by the health care offerings at Riderwood, an Erickson Senior Living community in Silver Spring, Md., the couple decided to join the Priority List.

"We looked at five communities in the area. Riderwood stood out from all the others, so we joined the Priority List," says Dan. "By joining, we saved a place in line [for a residence] while continuing to receive information and invitations to events. When we were ready, being on the Priority List enabled us to get the home we wanted."

In October 2022, Susan and Dan made the move to Riderwood--and haven't looked back! 

Freedom to explore

The Cohens began to seriously consider their move in 2020. Faced with lower back pain, Susan found it increasingly more difficult to move freely without aid. 

"Every time we wanted to go out, Susan needed a wheelchair to get to the car," says Dan. 

"Because we didn't have restaurants at Gatherings and neither of us wanted to cook, we had to go out to eat all the time." 

He continues, "One of the things that made Riderwood so appealing are the interconnected hallways leading to restaurants and activities. We learned that, at Riderwood, Susan would enjoy the independence of going wherever she wants by herself. She would no longer be dependent on me."

Making a smooth move

Once the Cohens decided it was time to move, they began looking at floor plan options for their future residence.

"We were looking for a two-bedroom apartment home," says Susan. "I wanted lots of windows and light. The sales team showed us the apartment we now live in. As soon as I took a look out the windows, I said, ‘This is it! This is where we should be.'"

After reserving their space, the couple was introduced to Riderwood's team of recommended moving professionals. 

"The sales team was very helpful, recommending both a real estate agent and senior moving company, and we chose to use them both," recalls Dan. "Downsizing was our biggest task, but the help we received made it so much easier."

An exciting new life

Since their move, Susan's spine-related health problems have improved, thanks to the health care she's received at Riderwood--enabling them both to take advantage of the community's activities. 

"When we moved to Riderwood, I could hardly move," she recalls. "I began working closely with Riderwood's physical therapists. I soon got stronger, even getting to the point where I could work one-on-one with a personal trainer. My trainer is fantastic. I can't believe how much more energetic I am and how much more I can do."

Now, Susan is pursuing a wide variety of activities and new hobbies. 

"The Short Story group was a wonderful surprise," says Susan. 

"We read from an anthology containing hundreds of stories from all different countries and then enjoy an open conversation. I learn so much from listening to others. I really look forward to our meetings." 

Dan, who enjoyed woodcarving prior to their move, uncovered a new passion for ceramics. 

"I signed up for the class offered through Prince George's Community College. It is wonderful. I never did ceramics before our move, and now it's become a real joy," he says. "I've made a lot of nice friends there too. It's been a real personal discovery for me since moving in."

‘Easily available'

From their first day at Riderwood, the Cohens have enjoyed socializing with neighbors who welcomed them with open arms. 

"When it comes to socializing, one of the really nice things about Riderwood are the many restaurants on campus," says Dan. 

"At Gatherings, we had to go out in a car to go to a restaurant. But, at Riderwood, everything is easily available. From our clubs and activities to our new friends, we are thoroughly enjoying our new life."

The couple's son, Matt, who lives in nearby Arlington, Va., is pleased his parents have found a new community that provides the health care they need and an abundance of activities they're interested in. 

"He's very supportive of our move. He and his family come often to visit," notes Dan.

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.