Retire Your Worries at Greenspring

Robert and Karen Thompson loved their oceanfront condo in Bethany Beach, Del., but its rising maintenance expenses and the area's seasonal isolation left them wanting more in retirement.

"Eight months out of the year, hardly anyone was there and many restaurants were closed," Robert recalls. "Out of 150 units, maybe two were occupied year-round. And, even in the summer, most people were renters who weren't interested in meeting neighbors."

He adds, "It quickly became clear that we needed more than just scenery."

While exploring their senior living options, the couple discovered that Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va., offers the financial stability and vibrant, welcoming atmosphere they were looking for.

"We're committed to providing not just a place to live, but a lifestyle of exceptional value," says Executive Director Karyn Flannagan. "Our financial model offers predictability, our amenities and activities enrich daily life, and we continually reinvest in the community to ensure residents' needs are met--now and in the future."

Finding the right fit

Since much of Robert's career was spent in Washington, D.C., as a World Bank Group director and leader in international affairs, he and Karen were already familiar with Springfield.

So, when friends and former colleagues recommended Greenspring, the couple scheduled a visit to the community. "We loved the natural beauty, the trees, the rolling hills. It was an immediate attraction," he recalls.

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

The monthly service package bundles the costs of utilities, maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, a meal plan at on-site restaurants, regularly scheduled transportation, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and more, into one predictable bill.

"It's all included. It makes budgeting simple," notes Robert. "No more utility bills, no more maintenance headaches."

Peace of mind

Since becoming Greenspring residents in January 2023, the Thompsons' daily life has become much easier.

"The meals are excellent! We often have enough left over for lunch the next day," says Robert. "And when we travel, we just turn the key and know everything is taken care of. That peace of mind is huge."

The Thompsons' financial stability and peace of mind is further strengthened by Greenspring's industry-leading, 90% refundable entrance fee--the heart of the community's pricing structure. 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.

"Our children are happy too," says Robert. "They know our financial affairs are in order, and when the time comes, the money will go to them without complications. It lifted a lot of weight from our shoulders."

So much to gain

Without the stress and hassle of home maintenance, residents like the Thompsons 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.

Greenspring boasts an expansive fitness center, library, woodshop, dog park, creative arts studio, hair salon and barbershop, in-house TV studio, community garden, putting green, and more.

And with just over 150 resident-run groups and clubs, "It's impossible not to find something that interests you!" says Robert.

Robert coleads a Saturday night sing-along, serves on a committee for the Resident Council, helps organize international affairs lectures, and volunteers as a cameraman for Greenspring's in-house TV studio.

Karen, a bobbin lace maker, started teaching members in her own craft group and continues to create intricate designs that blend traditional artistry with modern expression.

"They say social contact can add five years to your life expectancy," Robert notes. "We've found socialization in spades here. We eat meals with neighbors, attend lectures, and meet fascinating people we never would have met otherwise. It's been wonderful."

'In good hands'

Robert, reflecting on their three years at Greenspring, is confident that moving to the community was the best decision.

"Moving to Greenspring has been a great financial decision. It's also been a great decision for our quality of life. We found a welcoming community and endless opportunities to stay active and engaged," he says. "And our kids feel very appreciative of our decision. They know we are in good hands."

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

*As per the Residence and Care Agreement

By Kelly Shue