There's So Much to Love at Collington!

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re thinking about a move to senior living. If so, congratulations! You’re taking an important first step on a journey that starts with imagining what's possible.

Understandably, you may be feeling overwhelmed by all the choices. There are tens of thousands of retirement communities across the country and seemingly as many factors to consider with such a big decision. And while we’d love to tell you all the reasons for choosing Collington, we think it’s best to let our happy residents offer their thoughts on the subject.

Meet Joyce, Dave, Pat and Beth, who are pleased to share some of the reasons they chose Collington in the first place and why they continue to be so at home here. Once new to senior living themselves, they also have some good advice to impart.

People Who Need People

An overarching theme among not only our residents featured here, but everyone at Collington, is the importance of loving, welcoming people. Collington is truly a family, comprised of kind, friendly residents and team members who place a premium on human connection.

“Collington is not pretentious. There are many residents here with past high-level government jobs as well as those with advanced degrees and previous careers that benefit us all, but when you meet them in the hallways or have dinner with them, they are just regular people like the rest of us!”
–Joyce

“There are many things we love about Collington, but the most rewarding are the people. Residents are a diverse and wide range of professionals, many of whom have lived around the world. We are continually amazed by their stories.” – Dave

“We liked Collington’s proximity to D.C. and the Metro, but probably more than anything was the feeling of family and friendliness we felt when we walked around the campus.” –Joyce

Continuing Onsite Healthcare

Collington is a Life Plan community, also known as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). This means that no matter when or if your health needs change, you can remain on campus with the best care possible and without the stress of another move. That’s paramount to our residents and their loved ones.

What’s more, Collington has joined forces with MedStar Health to form the MedStar Center for Successful Aging, a partnership that assures state-of-the-art medical services to Collington residents.

“My husband spent many weeks on and off in the Creighton Health Center and received incredible care there during every admission. Having a clinic onsite is a remarkable advantage for all of us. Also, having available health care for all possible scenarios is vital. Memory care, assisted living, and short-stay respite care are all available here.” –Joyce

Natural Beauty in the D.C. Metropolis

In addition to beautiful apartments, villas and cottages that can be designed to each resident’s tastes, Collington is situated on 125 acres of native trees, walking trails, a lake and gorgeous gardens. If all that weren’t enough, the Collington campus is an accredited arboretum just a few short miles from the culture and excitement of our nation’s capital.

“The campus trail system and natural beauty seem like an oasis, considering we are only five minutes from a Metro station.” – Dave

“I am a walker, and being outside in all of the beauty surrounding me just makes me happy!” – Joyce

Purposeful Living

Far from “cookie-cutter,” activities at Collington are largely conceived and led by residents themselves. Busy residents are active in meaningful pursuits to better themselves, the Collington community and the greater area. They also have a lot of fun, too!

“There is more to do at Collington than we have time to do!” –Dave

“My husband and I both found activities that fit our personalities. He was the restaurant reviewer for our residents’ association publication and joined the memoir writing group, later publishing a book of his memoirs. I manage the Country Store and am the chair of the Dining Committee as well as a member of the Scholarship Committee.” –Joyce

Diversity: Not Just a Buzzword

At Collington, we honor and respect every person, encouraging diversity, belonging and inclusion and treating every individual as an equal. While these principles are especially timely today, they are timeless among Kendal communities governed from the start by the Quaker example set centuries ago.

“When I came to Collington, everyone was very open. I didn’t feel at all that I was encroaching on anything. Here, arms were open, and I felt very relaxed. We all come from varied backgrounds, and it’s okay. I know I can be my true self here.” –Pat

“Collington is much more diverse than any other CCRC we are aware of. It is more like living in the outside world.” –Dave

Words to the Wise

No matter where you are on the path to retirement living, our residents have been there at one point or another. As such, they are the ideal people to provide some valuable insights.

“It is important to move to a CCRC when you are physically and mentally able to enjoy the many offerings that suit you. Don’t wait too long!” –Joyce

“Don’t wait too late. Come to senior living when you are young enough to participate fully.” –Dave

“Now is the time to start downsizing. It’s a big job; it’s a daunting job. The sooner you start, the better off you will be.” –Beth

“Treat yourself to a move manager, not just a mover … a company that helps you pack, disposes or sells what you aren’t bringing and unpacks when you arrive. Some neighbors are still unpacking boxes six months after arriving. A move manager is well worth the cost!” –Dave

Thank you for spending time with our friendly residents.
Take the next step and schedule a tour of Collington today!