Silver Spring, MD - When Sarah Underwood and her husband Courtland Wilson were exploring their senior living options, they were looking for a retirement community with an abundance of activities on campus and nearby.
“We looked at three retirement communities—one in Washington, D.C., where we lived, and two in Montgomery County,” says Sarah.
Riderwood, the Erickson Senior Living community in Silver Spring, Md., checked all of their boxes.
“Riderwood was the most appealing for many reasons, especially the diversity of the residents. Courtland is African American and living among diverse neighbors is important to both of us,” she explains. “We also appreciate the large number of activities available to residents, the attractive apartment homes, and the ability to live an active life both on campus and within the D.C. area.”
Since settling into their apartment home three years ago, Sarah and Courtland have made the most of the community’s vibrant, worry-free lifestyle by engaging in a wide variety of activities—both on and off campus.
More free time
Resident Life Director Fiona Divecha notes that Riderwood’s robust range of clubs and activities is a distinguishing feature that attracts many prospective residents to the community.
“Riderwood provides residents with the services, amenities, and resources they need to enjoy an unmatched lifestyle,” she says. “With the ability to chart their own course, residents feel more connected and engaged than they did when living in their house.”
For Sarah and Courtland, charting their own course starts with freedom from maintenance and repairs.
“We previously owned a 100-plus year-old row house with a small yard,” says Sarah. “It is a relief not to worry about something breaking or needing work. We no longer spend time scrambling to get a contractor who, half the time, doesn’t show up. Living at Riderwood, all we do is call General Services and are met with an appropriate and timely response.”
With more free time added to their schedule, the couple has been able to pursue their hobbies and interests.
“At Riderwood, you can be involved as much as you want,” Sarah adds. “There is never pressure to participate but, with such a variety of activities, there is no need to ever be bored. It is easy to find something that interests you.”
Out and about
Sarah participates in fitness classes three or four times a week, is a member of the garden club, and volunteers on the Resident Advisory Council’s finance committee.
“I also attend the Democratic Club meetings, write postcards to voters, and was involved in the launching of a food scrap composting program with Riderwood’s environmental club,” she says.
In addition, Sarah volunteers her time with the sales team as a resident ambassador, leading prospective residents on community tours and answering their questions.
“One of the things I like best about being an ambassador is the opportunity to share the story of our lives here at Riderwood,” she says. “People always ask what life is like here, and I sum it up by saying it’s a combination of living at a fancy resort and a college dorm.”
Full speed ahead!
Meanwhile, Courtland, an avid car lover, is currently building a race car at a garage in nearby Rockville, Md.
“Moving to Riderwood from Washington, D.C., it was our intention to keep up with friends from our old neighborhood while also building friendships with our new neighbors,” Sarah says.
She continues, “He works on his car for hours with car buddies in the area—some of whom have car repair businesses and drive race cars. Courtland enjoys hanging out in their garages. He then comes home to Riderwood, and we enjoy dinner together or with friends.”
Dining with others in Riderwood’s eight restaurants has resulted in blossoming friendships for the couple.
“Several nights a week, we make plans with other couples for dinner,” says Sarah. “Other times, we go just the two of us. When we do, we are asked if we want to sit with others. We’ve found it to be a great way to meet people. Of course, we can always choose to dine alone, but often enjoy the social interaction.”
‘Wonderful life’
They’ve also met a lot of people at the community’s dog park, since their pup Nico moved with them to Riderwood.
“Our first friends were dog walkers,” recalls Sarah. “We visit often, sitting and chatting while the dogs play together.”
She adds, “We’ve found friendly, welcoming people no matter what we do. It’s so important to view this as an exciting new adventure. The activities and the friendships are so rewarding. We enjoy a really wonderful life here at Riderwood.”