Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living-managed community in Matthews, N.C., empowers community members to live their lives to the fullest, while reaping the many positive benefits of social interaction.
The maintenance-free lifestyle provides residents the time to invest in both new activities and favorite hobbies, while numerous amenities, activities, and clubs support healthy social networking. Community members also take the opportunity to engage in activities outside the community, including traveling and volunteering.
“What strikes me the most, and anyone who has visited, is the engaging and energized people who make Windsor Run a true community,” says Executive Director George Comfort. “Our residents have organized dozens of clubs and activities, dazzled us by showcasing their talents, and graciously volunteered their time and energy both on campus and within the local community.”
Freedom to socialize
Enjoying this freedom to socialize while engaging in a variety of activities holds the key to longevity. A study published in The Journals of Gerontology reports that “older adults who interact with people beyond their usual social circle of family and close friends are more likely to have higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods, and fewer negative feelings.”
“When I visited Windsor Run, prior to my move, I asked residents in small groups and individually what they liked most,” says community member Linda Haigh. “Very frequently, ‘family’ was the word used in the response. Now that I live here, I’m happy to say—they were right!”
For Windsor Run community members, eliminating the hassles associated with homeownership frees up valuable time to enjoy new adventures and explore hobbies and interests.
“When thinking about the move to a retirement community, it came down to three things,” says community member Dave Koos. “First, my wife Kay and I no longer wanted to deal with the responsibility that comes with owning a house. Second, my sister lives in Charlestown [an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md.]. She’s lived there for seven years and loves it.” And finally, he jokes, “Our two sons no longer wanted to worry about me up on a ladder.”
Without the worry of maintaining a house, Windsor Run community members invest their time in a wide range of clubs and activities. Each of the more than 100 clubs and activities is completely resident-run and exists solely thanks to the work of dedicated volunteers. In the spring and summer, community members enjoy a host of popular outdoor activities, including the golf outing group and gardening club.
Throughout the year, residents take part in other popular activities, including Wii bowling, the WoodChucks woodworking club, Windsor Run chorus, watercolor painting, yoga, language and religious groups, and numerous exercise classes.
WoodChucks member Rob Sanders appreciates the connections he makes in the state-of-the-art woodshop. “Spending time in the woodshop not only provides an opportunity to work, but to catch up with fellow members,” he says. “We spend our time talking and sharing stories while tackling our projects. It’s a great social outlet.”
Reaching out
For community members, life flourishes not only at Windsor Run, but in a variety of ways off campus as well. “The majority of residents remain active within the greater community,” says Maria Reyes, Resident Services Manager. “Whether it is volunteering, attending local church services, visiting friends and family, or traveling the world, they enjoy the freedom to do it all.”
One of Windsor Run’s most popular activities is the Grand Buddy program, an intergenerational partnership now in its fourth year. The program pairs small groups of students with Windsor Run volunteer “grand-buddies” for visits and discussions, culminating in the creation of the Windsor Run resident’s life story, a book written and illustrated by the students.
Word of mouth
Thanks to the worry-free environment, range of amenities, and freedom to enjoy the best life has to offer, demand for the Windsor Run lifestyle is at an all-time high. To meet that need, this summer, the community will celebrate the opening of its newest residential building— White Oak Terrace.
“I encourage anyone interested in learning more about a future at Windsor Run to call and schedule either an in-person or virtual visit,” says Director of Sales Ryan Barkley. “Our sales team is committed to helping prospective residents make a decision that it is right for them. And there is never any pressure—just a terrific opportunity to see Windsor Run.”
To learn more about the freedom of a Windsor Run lifestyle, click to request a brochure or schedule a tour today!