When Charles Whaley decided that a move to senior living was the best next step for him, he got to work comparing three continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) in the Charlotte, N.C., area--including Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C.
"Since I had friends at all three communities, I began by speaking with each of them regarding their experience," Charles says. "Confident that each offered a promising possibility, I began visiting the communities, accompanied by my daughter Madge."
He then developed a comprehensive financial analysis by comparing the communities' entrance deposits, monthly costs, and long-term health care benefits in a spreadsheet.
"I wanted to know how much money I was going to be spending at each one," he says. "In each instance, Windsor Run was clearly the winner!"
Comprehensive cost
Charles was especially impressed with Windsor Run's 90% refundable entrance deposit* and comprehensive monthly service package.
The 90% refundable entrance deposit, which is used to secure your desired apartment home, goes back to you or your beneficiaries, if or when you leave the community. The monthly service package covers the costs of utilities including home phone and WiFi, a meal plan at on-site restaurants, access to amenities, regularly scheduled transportation, and more.
"The monthly fees among the three communities varied more than I expected. Windsor Run's was the lowest, but it includes so much!" he says.
Maintenance, including repair and replacement of appliances, is also part of the monthly service package. Now, Charles simply calls General Services when a light bulb goes out.
Amenities galore
A January 2024 article in U.S. News and World Report cited not only the major financial benefits of moving to a CCRC but the intangible advantages of experiencing a sense of community and an array of convenient amenities.
"Only at Windsor Run could I go from building to building without going outside. I didn't realize how much of a benefit that would be until I moved here!" says Charles. "I have friends who either have to walk outside to other buildings or take a shuttle just to get to dinner. For me, convenience is a big deal."
Executive Director Michael Wehrle says, "Windsor Run residents enjoy an active lifestyle, financial stability, and access to resources that promote health and well-being. By continuously reevaluating and investing in our services and amenities, we ensure a vibrant future for all of our residents."
Priceless benefits
Since his move to Windsor Run, Charles finds there is even more to like, including friendly neighbors, a wide variety of activities, and on-site health care.
"Before my wife Beverly passed away, she told me that I should live somewhere with people," he says. "She was right. One day, soon after she passed, it hit me that I hadn't been out of the house in a week. That's when I decided to sell the house and move. I'm much more active now!"
Immersing himself in community life, Charles volunteers with the resident tech team, spending two hours each Saturday helping neighbors with technology issues. He also recently joined the Dining Services Committee.
"Dining is very social here. It's a wonderful way to meet people," he says. "And there are a lot more activities than you might expect--swimming, gardening, woodworking, card games, you name it."
Charles was also pleasantly surprised by the convenience of Windsor Run's on-site medical center.
"Because my doctor is only ten minutes from Windsor Run, it's not something I considered before my move," he says. "However, when I told my doctor I was moving, he encouraged me to see the doctors here because of their reputation. He said that if I stayed with his practice, there would be times when I'd need an appointment and it might take two days to get one. He was right. When you're feeling lousy, it's a huge benefit to simply walk down to the medical center and know you'll be seen."
Peace of mind
While Charles appreciates having financial stability and plenty of activities to choose from, he notes that nothing beats the peace of mind Windsor Run provides.
"Madge and my son, Curtis, are both pleased with my decision and visit often," he says. "I'm happy to provide them this gift--which is also, in many ways, a gift to me as well."
To learn how you can make the most of your retirement, request more information today.
*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.