Avery Point Offers a Personalized Approach to Discovering Its Vibrant Lifestyle

Wanting to find the best retirement community for them, Gerald and Diane Ransone started exploring their senior living options in the Richmond, Va., area.

So, when one of Gerald's friends said he was moving to Avery Point, an Erickson Senior Living community in Short Pump, Va., it sparked their interest.

The couple decided to join Avery Point's Priority List, which offers its members a wealth of resources to help them learn more about the community's vibrant lifestyle.

"There are lots of ways for prospective residents to explore Avery Point," says Sales Director Kailey Viray. "So many people in the Richmond area are entering retirement age and looking at senior communities. It's important to have a plan in place. At the end of the day, we want to give people all the information they need."

For Gerald and Diane, their research paid off, as Avery Point turned out to be the perfect community for them!

The first step

Whether you're looking at Avery Point for the first time or you've visited campus before, there are myriad ways to learn more.

"If you'd prefer to have your questions and unique needs addressed one-on-one, you can schedule a personal appointment with a sales team member," explains Viray. "Or, if you'd prefer to get more information in a group setting, we host monthly luncheons as well."

She continues, "First, guests take a tour around campus. Then, lunch--prepared by the community's dining team--is served while a resident ambassador shares their story about coming to Avery Point. A sales team member also gives an introductory presentation."

Gerald and Diane attended a luncheon and found it to be very helpful.

"I like that you get to go in with other people. Everybody can ask questions--some might be ones you're thinking about but are too embarrassed to ask," says Gerald.

"Our goal is simply to present information and answer any questions," notes Viray.

"We never felt any pressure at all," Gerald adds.

Priority List perks

Luncheon attendees then have the opportunity to join the Priority List. In addition to saving their spot in line for a residence, members receive invitations to exclusive events, have the chance to stay overnight on campus, and gain access to planning and moving support.

During their time on the Priority List, Gerald and Diane attended several events.

"We did something just about every month," says Gerald. "At one, we learned from the financial director; at another, we heard from preferred real estate agents. One event was all about the medical center. A different event featured people who could help you downsize and move all your stuff."

Diane adds, "We went to everything we could because we were trying to get as much information about Avery Point as possible."

Viray notes that Avery Point also offers open houses, in which we people can tour different floor plans, and social gatherings for Priority List members.

"We've had a variety of themed social events," she says. "One for Cinco de Mayo featured a taco bar. We've also hosted a flapjacks social with brunch, an Italian themed gathering with different Italian dishes, and a wine pairing event. We want attendees to have fun while learning more!"

Live the life

While the Ransones learned a lot during these events, their Live the Life stay was the most impactful.

The Live the Life program--exclusive to Priority List members--allows guests to stay overnight in a furnished suite, utilize amenities, join club meetings, dine at on-campus restaurants, and chat with current residents.

"It's the best way for prospective residents to see Avery Point's vibrant lifestyle up close," says Viray.

After Gerald and Diane settled into their suite, they stopped by the bar to grab a cocktail and chat with current residents. Then, they enjoyed dinner with a couple who are Resident Ambassadors.

"They were wonderful! We had so much fun," says Diane.

"Everyone was so friendly," says Gerald. "I had lobster, and it was as good as lobster I've had."

Diane adds, "We just felt like we belonged." And now they really do, as they made the move to their one-bedroom, one-and-a-half bath home at Avery Point this past July.

Request more information today to learn more about all the different ways you can explore the vibrant lifestyle at Avery Point.

By Michele Wojciechowski