The end of the year is a natural time to reflect on the past and consider the ways we can make the coming years even more special and fulfilling. Many retirees find that moving into a senior living community is a worthwhile way to enhance their life while providing peace of mind for themselves and loved ones.
Senior living communities offer a vibrant, supportive environment where residents can foster social connections, enjoy a range of convenient amenities and explore new opportunities that improve physical and mental well-being.
Whether you’re considering this option for yourself or a loved one, this may be a conversation topic you want to discuss while everyone is together for the holidays. Although it can feel emotional or difficult to talk about moving, focusing on the undeniable benefits is a great way to begin the discussion.
Consider how the communal living environment and access to plentiful social events can help combat feelings of loneliness while providing opportunities to form new friendships. Residents can stimulate curiosity and learning by participating in cultural and intellectual enrichment activities, from book clubs to art exhibitions to educational lectures. And, of course, residents enjoy peace of mind with maintenance-free living in a secure environment and knowing that staff is available 24 hours a day to help with any needs or provide emergency medical attention.
As you consider the ideal environment for yourself or a loved one, use this guide to discover some of the best senior living communities in the country that also happen to be close to home.
The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center: Redefining senior living in Gaithersburg
The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, a Kisco Signature senior living community, is pleased to announce it is now open and accepting residents. This marks the unveiling of Gaithersburg’s newest senior living community, offering a glimpse into the exceptional lifestyle The Carnegie provides for its residents.
“We are proud to officially open the doors of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center,” said Andy Kohlberg, president and CEO of Kisco Senior Living. “The community reflects Kisco’s dedication to creating vibrant, engaging environments where seniors can thrive. As our flagship Signature community, we are especially proud to display how The Carnegie exemplifies the best of what Kisco offers.”
During the grand opening event, attendees explored the full range of lifestyle and wellness programs, services and amenities that residents enjoy daily. Located next to the lively Washingtonian Center, The Carnegie is a luxury, full-service retirement community offering 302 elegant one- and two-bedroom residences across seven stories and 8.5 acres. Designed for independent living, assisted living and memory support, The Carnegie provides seniors with a thoughtfully crafted environment where they can thrive.
“The development of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center represents a significant milestone for Kisco Senior Living,” said MJ Ritschel, CIO for Kisco Senior Living. “From its initial design to the finishing touches, every detail has been thoughtfully planned to create a community that fosters connection, comfort and an exceptional quality of life for our residents. It has been a privilege to bring this vision to life, and we’re excited to see The Carnegie become a cornerstone of senior living in the Northeast.”
At the heart of The Carnegie is Kisco Senior Living’s award-winning The Art of Living Well® programming, promoting whole-person wellness and fostering an active, fulfilling lifestyle. The community also upholds Forbes Travel Guide’s five-star service standards, ensuring that every member experiences world-class care and attention to detail.
The community distinguishes itself through strong partnerships with local businesses and cultural institutions, including The Art Collective, Gaithersburg Book Festival, Fig & Fire, Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream and The Wine Concierge. These collaborations create a vibrant and enriching atmosphere for residents, infusing the community with a sense of culture, connection and lively spirit. By fostering these meaningful relationships, The Carnegie offers more than just a place to live, but an environment that provides an engaging and culturally immersive lifestyle.
Residents of The Carnegie enjoy access to a variety of premium amenities, such as multiple dining venues, a wellness spa, a fitness center, an indoor heated saltwater pool, a lecture hall, an art gallery and a cooking demonstration kitchen. Additionally, the beautifully landscaped outdoor park and nearby trails offer a serene environment, while the prime location ensures easy access to shopping, dining and cultural activities.
“We’ve built a truly dynamic environment where residents can embrace an active, fulfilling lifestyle surrounded by a supportive and vibrant community,” said Jennifer Pastora, general manager of The Carnegie.
Learn more about The Carnegie lifestyle and tour the community by visiting lifeatthecarnegie.com or calling 240-201-2797.
Join the exclusive First Key Society at The Fitzgerald of Palisades
The Fitzgerald, set to open its doors in Spring 2025, is a one-of-a-kind Kisco Signature® retirement community nestled in the historic and charming Palisades neighborhood of Washington, D.C. In anticipation of its opening, the community just introduced the First Key Society, an exclusive group designed to foster connections and personal growth among its pioneer residents. Named in honor of Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, the celebrated author of “The Great Gatsby,” this exclusive group embodies elegance and invites residents to embrace extraordinary experiences.
The First Key Society provides a wealth of engaging activities, from educational workshops to cultural outings and fitness programs, that residents can take advantage of even before moving into The Fitzgerald, allowing them to forge meaningful connections while exploring new interests and hobbies.
Founding members of the First Key Society will also unlock an array of exclusive perks that enhance their lifestyle. These benefits include no second-person fee for the first two years; fixed lease price increase, capped at 3.9% for years two and three; half-priced parking for one year; complimentary guest meals across all dining venues; and generous salon and spa gift certificates.
At The Fitzgerald, residents will enjoy an unparalleled living experience characterized by five-star hospitality, exceptional amenities and a strong commitment to wellness. The community will offer spacious independent and assisted living residences, along with memory care suites, all designed with the residents’ comfort and well-being in mind.
At the heart of this retirement community lies a unique philosophy — The Art of Living Well® — a holistic wellness approach that engages each of the nine dimensions of physical and emotional well-being. The Art of Living Well is an innovative approach addressing the nine dimensions of wellness: cultural, physical, nutritional, intellectual, purpose, social connectivity, artistic expression, environmental and spiritual health. It ensures a comprehensive and personalized experience for each resident with a wealth of wellness amenities that blend service excellence with holistic care.
The Fitzgerald understands that everyone’s wellness journey is unique. That’s why they offer a variety of fitness activities and other engaging programs, empowering residents to choose what aligns with their preferences and enhances their daily routine. Whether they are seeking invigorating workouts or moments of mindfulness, the community supports residents’ pursuit of a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
For more than three decades, Kisco Senior Living has set the standard for elevated retirement living. As a Kisco Signature community, The Fitzgerald upholds this legacy of excellence and takes pride in delivering the highest quality of service and care every day. Their mission is to provide residents with the freedom to pursue independence with purpose and passion. The moment residents step into the community, they will discover a world where well-being is the top priority and personal development and lifelong learning are encouraged.
Future residents can look forward to more than just a residence; they will find a community that inspires them to thrive, offering freedom of choice and a purposeful pursuit of independence. For more information about The Fitzgerald or the First Key Society and upcoming events, call 202-221-8293 or visit lifeatthefitzgerald.com.
Elevated living for ages 60+ at Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury
For active seniors 60 and better, being a resident of Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury feels like living at a resort. New, move-in ready luxury apartments in the Villa neighborhood offer maintenance-free living with an endless availability of events and activities, on-site restaurants for times you’d rather not cook, and access to amenities that will keep your body and mind vibrant, like a library, pool, fitness center and art studio.
Villa buildings each house up to 10 apartment homes for a small community feel and feature a shared lounge on each floor to foster connections among neighbors. These spacious, well-appointed residences are designed for stylish comfort and convenience, with open floor plans, high-end finishes, stainless kitchen appliances, in-suite washers and dryers, designer light fixtures, and temperature-controlled garages and storage areas. Residents enjoy scenic views overlooking ponds, meadows and walking paths from their private patios or balconies. (No more need for a shovel!)
Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury’s location in Winchester, Virginia, is ideal for those who want to live in a quaint, historic town just a short drive from Washington, D.C. There are golf courses, pickleball courts nearby, and the community’s own putting green and croquet court. The pet-friendly campus includes well-maintained wooded walking trails and a large fenced-in dog park.
Call 540-665-5914 to schedule a tour of the picturesque Villa community. Express your interest before the end of the year to lock in 2024 pricing.
New Benchmark at Alexandria senior community offers an easy lifestyle in winter and all year long
Fireside happy hours in the bistro and on the rooftop deck with Washington Monument views, chef-prepared comfort foods made before you, easy underground parking, transportation to appointments and activities, on-site physical and occupational therapy. Sounds like the perfect winter escape, right?
The new Benchmark at Alexandria assisted living and Mind & Memory Care community, now open in West Alex near Silver Diner and Harris Teeter, offers seniors that much and more this winter.
Many of the 115 customizable studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments are already leased, but others are still available to welcome residents home. Although things like 24/7 personalized care are available for those who need it, one of the most impressive features is its prime location among 100,000 square feet of retail space.
When you step inside, you’re immediately struck by how light, bright, and open it is. High ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern, upscale furnishings energize while feeling warm and inviting — a nod to the community’s impending WELL Building Institute and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications.
Benchmark at Alexandria is Benchmark Senior Living’s first foray into the Mid-Atlantic market, having built a reputation for excellent care and experiences over the past 27 years. With 66 communities throughout the Northeast, it’s long been their vision to bring their nationally award-winning services to the D.C. area.
To learn more, visit BenchmarkAtAlexandria.com or call 571-626-4048.
Falcons Landing – Welcoming all who have served
Located in scenic Loudoun County, Virginia, Falcons Landing is a non-profit, CARF-accredited Life Plan Community. The award-winning community has long been known as a retirement haven for officers from all branches of service and senior-level federal employees and their spouses or surviving spouses.
Falcons Landing is pleased to announce that independent living eligibility has recently expanded to include any person who has served at least four years in the uniformed services or a U.S. government agency, as well as those with significant connections to the national defense community. Others may also apply for residency on a case-by-case basis.
As always, the community offers direct admission to those seeking long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, assisted living or memory care for themselves or a loved one, regardless of prior military or government service.
For 28 years, Falcons Landing has been a community where residents greet one another by name, not rank, fostering an atmosphere of genuine camaraderie and friendship, and providing older adults with a unique opportunity to retire in style among peers who share a common bond of service.
Offering a vast array of resort-style activities, impeccable services and amenities, unbeatable wellness opportunities and world-class dining experiences, it’s easy to see why Falcons Landing consistently receives numerous accolades and awards year after year.
To learn more about independent living eligibility or schedule a tour, call 703-783-2831 or visit falconslanding.org today!
Active lifestyle. Incredible value. Unmatched peace of mind.
For vibrant senior living in the DMV area, choose a community managed by Erickson Senior Living®.
A leader in senior living for over 40 years, the Erickson Senior Living network of communities offers multiple locations in Maryland and Northern Virginia, including Ashby Ponds® in Ashburn, Greenspring® in Springfield, and Riderwood® in Silver Spring. Each community has easy access to the area’s best dining, shopping and entertainment.
Apartment homes for every budget
Stylish, contemporary apartment homes come in a range of sizes, many with outdoor living space. Friendly for a variety of budgets and lifestyles, the apartment homes are always maintenance-free, so you’ll just enjoy the time you’ve earned.
Amenities and activities
You’ll find state-of-the-art fitness centers, multiple on-site dining venues, lounges and other exciting amenities are just steps from your door. Climate-controlled walkways connect the campus, so rain, sleet and snow won’t stop your active lifestyle.
Freedom from repairs
Finally, you can retire from the hassle and expense of home repairs. Your community maintenance team handles everyday fixes in and around your home, while a landscaping team keeps the grounds looking their best all year round.
Quality, senior-focused health care
The on-site medical team at Ashby Ponds, Greenspring and Riderwood deliver patient-centered care so you have ready access to a dedicated team of providers should you need it. You’ll enjoy senior-focused care just steps from your door.
Call 1-800-306-7271 or visit DMVSeniorLiving.com today to get your free brochure from the community nearest you.
Discovering new passions: embracing fresh experiences at Ingleside senior living communities
At Ingleside, life is all about exploration and growth, no matter your age. Residents find opportunities to dive into new passions, explore creative pursuits and discover meaningful interests across Ingleside’s three not-for-profit Life Plan Communities — Ingleside at Rock Creek, Westminster at Lake Ridge and Ingleside at King Farm.
Ingleside’s Engaged Living philosophy encourages residents to try new things, from an array of fitness programming and art classes to volunteer opportunities and musical ensembles. For those with an adventurous spirit, the community offers ways to explore everything from hiking and day trips to carpentry and foreign languages. These enriching experiences allow residents to uncover hidden talents and rediscover interests they may have put aside in earlier years.
The vibrant campus life includes guest lectures, live musical performances and hands-on programs that inspire curiosity and joy. Whether hosting a travel-inspired discussion, leading a crafting group or participating in a book club, residents frequently lead and participate in programming that reflects their own passions.
The Westminster Ingleside Foundation also helps ensure employees can pursue a wide range of new experiences, sponsoring education and personal passions through employee scholarships.
Discover what it means to be part of a community where you’re invited to keep growing, trying and thriving. Visit inglesideonline.org to learn more or schedule a tour.
The future of senior living – it’s in The Virginian
The wait is over! The Virginian’s multi-million-dollar transformation is complete, and Northern Virginia’s premier senior living community has created an incomparable new standard for today’s active seniors.
From its beautiful outdoor patios to a range of casual and upscale eateries, every aspect has been reimagined to offer today’s older adults a truly engaging experience.
Hi-tech meets hi-style
The Virginian offers residents a range of innovative features, from the state-of-the-art fitness center to a cutting-edge golf simulator and other high-tech innovations throughout the campus.
The Virginian also offers more ways to get your game on and your fitness levels up than ever before. From beautifully landscaped walking paths to all-new pickleball and bocce ball courts to fitness programs, The Virginian now offers all the tools you need to stay fit and young at heart.
The Concierge Club
For those looking for an elevated lifestyle, the Concierge Club takes The Virginian’s Independent Living experience to a whole new level with exclusive 5th-floor residences and a wide variety of bespoke experiences. From exclusive wine tastings to intimate chef’s table dinners, every aspect of the Concierge Club experience exudes sophistication and refinement.
Whether you’re looking for a stunning new residence or an inspiring new lifestyle, The Virginian delivers in every detail. To schedule a personal tour, call 703-223-8648 or visit liveatthevirginian.com today.
