Oak Crest Neighbors Look Forward to a New Year of Worry-Free Living

Oak Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md., has provided an active and engaged retirement lifestyle, a commitment to health and well-being, and excellent value for thousands of seniors since 1995. 

As we welcome 2024, residents' outlook on the future continues to be characterized by optimism, opportunity, and growth, thanks to the vibrant lifestyle they enjoy at Oak Crest. 

Worry-free living

Patrick McHale is just one of many Oak Crest residents who have taken advantage of the community's benefits to enjoy life to the fullest.

While living in his three-level townhome of 52 years, Patrick became increasingly interested in a maintenance-free alternative. He was looking for more free time and more opportunities to lead an active social life, have fun, and stay engaged--all while gaining peace of mind for the future.

"I realized that the goal of living in my house forever was unrealistic. Eventually, I wouldn't be able to climb steps anymore, and if I ever needed assisted living or skilled nursing care, what would I do?" says Patrick. "Then, I discovered I could live independently at Oak Crest and have everything else right there for the future, if I ever needed it."

He adds, "Another thing that made an impression on me was the longevity of the staff. Many of them have worked here for 10 or 20 years! There are also a number of employees who have family members living in the community."

Impressed by the community's one-level, maintenance-free apartment homes; on-site continuing care health services; and compassionate staff, Patrick knew that Oak Crest was the right move for him. 

"I came to the conclusion that there aren't any communities better than Oak Crest," he says. 

Fun and freedom

Now, Patrick plays pickleball, walks nearly five miles a day, joins friends for "wild card poker" four nights a week, helps with the resident-run library, and volunteers as a resident ambassador, sharing his story with retirees considering Oak Crest's lifestyle for themselves. 

Clearly, his desire for an active, social lifestyle has been fulfilled!

"When I lived in my house, I wasn't involved in many things," he recalls. "I had lovely neighbors, but we didn't really interact with one another. I feel that I am more outgoing since moving here."

Like Patrick, the community's engaging lifestyle attracted Sue Verdecchia, who moved to Oak Crest from a condo in Timonium. 

"I did a lot of things at my condo, but it wasn't enough," she says. "At Oak Crest, I knew I could experience meaningful social connections and do the things I love in a safe and convenient environment."

For Sue, this new year means new opportunities for fun, freedom, and friendships. 

"There is so much to choose from here!" she says. "I play bocce and shuffleboard. I am on the Wellness Committee at the fitness center. There are a ton of bus trips. I enjoy the freedom to be able to walk outside at night and to go where I want on campus without having to worry about my safety."

Solid foundation

Oak Crest's financial strength, expertise, and values-driven culture have provided an incredible foundation for residents to enjoy life to the fullest.

"We are very optimistic about the year ahead," says Executive Director Mark Roussey. "Residents are busy and engaged in activities like shuffleboard, bocce, and monthly dances. Throughout the community, health and well-being initiatives, including a new outpatient rehabilitation center and a new employee health and well-being center, are nearing completion."

He adds, "Plus, we're updating apartment homes to meet demand for larger, more open spaces. We'll continue to provide personalized, maintenance-free living spaces that allow residents to pursue their passions."

'A great decision'

Patrick and Sue both say they could not be happier with the decision they made for themselves and their futures.

"I did a lot of research before making my decision. This is definitely the best community I found," Sue says. "I feel safe and there is lots to do here, but the people and the camaraderie are probably what I like most. I have made so many friends! Oak Crest has been wonderful for me."

Patrick agrees, "I am at peace. I have less stress and less worries. I'm happy and my children are happy for me. I tell my children, 'I made a good decision to move to a senior living community, but I made a great decision to move to Oak Crest.'"

To learn more about the benefits of moving to a maintenance-free community, request more information today.