'Why We Chose a Vibrant Retirement at Oak Crest'

There are many reasons why thousands of retirees have said 'yes' to a vibrant, worry-free lifestyle at Oak Crest, the Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md.

For some, it is the beautifully landscaped campus. Others love the variety of made-to-order meals served at on-site restaurants. And who doesn't want a stylish, maintenance-free apartment home suited to entertaining friends and pursuing hobbies? Everyone who lives at Oak Crest has their own story. 

Recently, Tribune sat down with residents Harry and Kathaleen Quinn to find out what motivated them to make the move and how much they're enjoying life at Oak Crest. 

Tribune: What led you to consider a move to Oak Crest?

Harry: Moving to a retirement community was always a part of our long-term plans, but we didn't know exactly when. 

When our house of almost 50 years required increasing maintenance, we started considering a move. Even though we could hire people to cut the grass and make repairs, managing everything was getting harder. On top of that, we realized how isolated we were in our house and the future health needs we could encounter.

Kathaleen: We lived in Perry Hall, so we were only two miles from Oak Crest. We practically watched the community take shape! We looked into the apartment homes, amenities, and services, and we didn't have to look any further. We knew that Oak Crest was for us. 

Tribune: What's your apartment home like? 

Harry: We chose a one-bedroom layout with a den. We are on the third floor of our residence building, so we overlook the gardens. As soon as Kathaleen saw the view, she fell in love with the apartment home. We also face southeast, so we get a lot of natural light--thanks to our floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Kathaleen: It's the perfect size for us. And when we go to our condo in Ocean City, Md., we know that we can close the door and not have to stress about anything. When we lived in our house, we always worried, "What if it rains and the sump pump doesn't work?" Now, our home is safe and secure. 

Tribune:  Have you found any groups or activities you like?

Harry: For sure! I love playing water volleyball. We are active with our faith community, volunteer on the welcome committee, serve as ambassadors for sales events, and are members of the LGBT + Friends + Family group. We also enjoy attending on-site concerts and dining with friends.

Kathaleen: There are so many activities to choose from! We have classes provided by the Community College of Baltimore County and well as the Resident University program, which offers short classes taught by residents; as they do a great job. 

I exercise every morning at the fitness center. I'm part of the Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Council and I participate in book clubs both on and off campus. 

Tribune: How has your life changed since moving to Oak Crest? 

Harry: One of the biggest advantages of living here is the opportunity to stay active. You have access to the entire campus--not just your apartment home. Having so many amenities just a walk away is a gamechanger. 

The social aspect of living in a community is also an advantage. When we lived in Perry Hall, we knew our neighbors, but we didn't have the kind of relationships that we do now with our neighbors here at Oak Crest.

Kathaleen: We feel very welcome here. Everyone feels comfortable sharing their life stories, mostly because others have had similar experiences. That support is unmatched. 

Tribune: Do you have any advice for people considering a move to Oak Crest?

Harry: We have been very happy here, and we have not looked back. After we toured our apartment home, we thought, "Why wait?" So, we seized the opportunity. Make the move!

Kathaleen: Yes, don't wait too long! Move while you can still enjoy all of the things here.

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