Retire Your Worries at Cedar Crest

Christopher Williams had a short list of criteria for his ideal retirement community--proximity to friends and family, a carefree lifestyle, and great value.

"Cedar Crest satisfied those criteria more completely than the other communities I researched and visited," says Christopher of the Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J.

In fact, he was so impressed with the community that he decided to move in while still working full-time.

"Some friends asked why I made the move," recalls Christopher. "I explained that the better question is, 'Why wait until I was too old to fully enjoy everything Cedar Crest has to offer?'"

"Cedar Crest's pricing structure features predictable costs that provide both peace of mind and access to an array of amenities and activities," says Executive Director Kristen Compton. "We are committed to offering an engaging lifestyle as well as exceptional value."

Predictable costs

Christopher, living and working in Erie, Pa., at the time, researched and visited a number

of continuing care retirement communities in New Jersey.

"I had lived in New Jersey most of my adult life. I knew I wanted to retire there to be close to friends and family," says Christopher. "My strong preference was for a nonprofit with great financials. Plus, an affordable entrance fee and history of reasonable service charge increases."

He was drawn to Cedar Crest's pricing structure, which is made up of two components--a 90% refundable entrance fee* and a monthly service package.

The entrance fee, collected as part of the residency process, will go back to you or your beneficiaries if or when you leave the community. And the monthly service package bundles the costs of all utilities, maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, a meal plan at on-site restaurants, and more, into one bill.

"When I was a homeowner, and even when I was renting, I had to bear the full brunt of the rising costs of living," says Christopher, who appreciates the predictability of the service package, which stays consistent for 12 months.

He also notes that, thanks to the convenient amenities on campus--including a bank branch, pharmacy, and medical center--he drives much less, adding up to significant gas and car maintenance savings.

'Peace of mind'

Christopher saw Cedar Crest's Home for Life promise* as another significant advantage.

"With the Home for Life promise, there's great peace of mind for both me and my siblings--knowing that, should I need assistance as I age, I can remain in the community in a beautiful setting with highly skilled professionals," Christopher explains.

No one ever expects to run out of money, but sometimes unforeseen issues arise that can quickly deplete your hard-earned savings and put you at risk.

At Cedar Crest, we've planned for life's uncertainties and are prepared to assist eligible residents who outlive their resources. No one will be asked to leave the community because of a genuine inability to pay.

A vibrant lifestyle

Without the stress and hassle of home maintenance, residents like Christopher have more time to pursue their hobbies and interests--especially since access to the community's amenities is also included in the monthly service package.

Cedar Crest boasts an expansive fitness center, creative arts studio, library, hair salon and barbershop, in-house TV studio, putting green, woodshop, and dozens of groups to participate in.

"There are many, many opportunities to form friendships, participate in clubs and activities, and volunteer to help others and make the community as vibrant as possible," Christopher says.

In addition, Cedar Crest continually reinvests in its amenities and services, ensuring residents enjoy the best value now and in the future.

"Among the things I've learned since moving to Cedar Crest is that there is continuous upgrading of the community," he says. "And I'm impressed by the quality of materials and workmanship."

"We always look for ways to refresh the clubhouses and residence buildings. We've added new amenities such as a satellite fitness center, a fast-casual dining venue, and virtual golf," says Compton.

The right move

Christopher, approaching his five-year anniversary at Cedar Crest, is confident that moving to the community was the right decision, as it's provided the financial security and carefree lifestyle he's always wanted in retirement.

Request more information today to learn more about the financial benefits of moving to Cedar Crest.

*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.

By Susan Ingram