The Best Ways to Learn About Senior Living

When it comes to researching a retirement community, there's nothing quite like seeing it for yourself. At Riderwood, an Erickson Senior Living community in Silver Spring, Md., there are countless ways to do just that!

From one-on-one appointments to informational events and group tours, Riderwood invites prospective residents to explore the community at their own pace--with no added pressure.

"Throughout our decision-making process, the sales team was very accommodating. They were more than happy to show us various apartment homes, answer questions, and meet with us as often as we needed," says Nathan Block, who moved to Riderwood with his wife, Gloria Eldridge-Block, last year.

"We could tell that they wanted us to make our own decision, one that best met our needs," he adds. "And we never felt any pressure to make a decision."

Exploring their options

"We have some friends living at Riderwood, so we were familiar with some parts of the community, but we wanted to come learn more," recalls Gloria.

So, the couple signed up for an informational luncheon and tour. Impressed with everything they saw and heard, they decided to join the Priority List.

In addition to saving their spot in line for a residence at Riderwood, members receive invitations to exclusive educational events, updates on community happenings, and the chance to sign up for a Live the Life stay--an overnight experience in a furnished guest suite.

Members can utilize amenities, join club meetings, dine at on-campus restaurants, and spend time with current residents.

For Nathan and Gloria, who stayed on campus for three nights, their Live the Life experience was an integral part of their decision-making process.

"A typical stay is two nights, but I won an extra night by spinning a prize wheel at the luncheon," explains Gloria. "That turned out to be such a wonderful gift. It really gave us a good feel for life at Riderwood!"

A warm welcome

During their visit, the couple dined with current residents, explored the campus grounds, and visited the fitness center.

"But what really stood out to us, both while attending events and during our Live the Life stay, was the friendliness of the residents," says Nathan. "I was very impressed that people will smile and say 'hi,' as you pass by. And now that we live here, we follow suit."

Shortly after their Live the Life stay, the couple decided to make Riderwood their new home. Even after selecting their desired floor plan, they continued to receive support and guidance from the sales team--as well as invitations to events designed for future residents.

Gloria and Nathan note that one of those events, the tour of current residents' homes, was especially beneficial.

"It's so helpful to see a home that is lived in," says Gloria. "The tours helped me visualize where I could place the items I had in our own home. One big surprise for me was how large the rooms are at Riderwood. As a result, we were able to take a lot of our furniture with us."

Exciting new life

Since moving in, Gloria and Nathan have discovered that the life they planned for is even better than they imagined.

"The opportunity to get involved was very important to us when it came to choosing a community," says Gloria. "Prior to our move, we participated in a lot of community activities, including line dancing and hip-hop dance classes at the Takoma Park Rec Center. Nathan belongs to a Monday night basketball team, and I take tap dancing class."

She adds, "Moving to Riderwood allows us to keep participating in these activities, while also enjoying what our new home has to offer."

The couple recently assisted backstage at Riderwood's annual resident talent show, and they volunteer at the community's TV studio.

Come visit

In an effort to help other prospective residents explore Riderwood, Nathan and Gloria have opened their home for tours and continually share their love of their new life with friends.

"So many of our friends have followed our story. Now, they're asking many of the same questions we asked when making our decision," says Gloria. "Spending time at Riderwood, meeting people, and asking questions is important."

Nathan adds, "Our hope is that our friends will be as happy as we are. Riderwood has been a very good decision for us. Even our son and grandchildren are happy we are here!"

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Kelly Shue