Cedar Crest Offers a Personalized Approach to Discovering Its Vibrant Lifestyle

When it comes to researching a retirement community, there's nothing quite like seeing it for yourself. That's why Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J., offers countless ways to do just that.

From personal appointments to informational events and group tours, Cedar Crest invites prospective residents to explore the community at their own pace--with no added pressure.

"By visiting Cedar Crest, we were able to see our desired floor plan on several occasions, eat in many of the restaurants, and stroll through campus," says Peggy Lozauskas.

"When people visit, we want to give them all the information they need to help them determine whether Cedar Crest is the right fit for them," notes Sales Manager Jessica Cirelli. "That's the most important thing!"

For Peggy and her husband Tony, all their visits and research paid off, as Cedar Crest turned out to be the perfect community for them.

First steps

Peggy and Tony were living in an active adult community in Rockaway, N.J., when they decided to explore their senior living options.

"We had received mailings from Cedar Crest. Since it was close by, we made an appointment with the sales office," Peggy recalls.

"Scheduling an appointment with a sales team member is a great way to see campus and have your questions and unique needs addressed one-on-one. It's very relaxed," explains Cirelli. "It's also a chance for us to learn more about you and your goals for retirement."

They were especially impressed with the community garden, where residents grow a variety of flowers and veggies.

"We could still grow our own Jersey tomatoes and a variety of culinary herbs," Peggy says.

Priority List perks

Conducting their due diligence, the couple researched other retirement communities as well, but their visit to Cedar Crest stood out. In fact, their visit was so memorable that they decided to join the community's Priority List.

In addition to saving a spot in line for a residence, members receive invitations to exclusive educational events, updates on community happenings, and access to planning and moving support.

"As members of the Priority List, we visited Cedar Crest on many occasions, including group tours and [informational] events," says Peggy.

"Our Priority List events are great opportunities to tour the community, learn more about our vibrant lifestyle, and mingle with current residents," explains Cirelli. "At the end of each event, we get so many comments about what a wonderful experience it was and how it helped them feel confident about taking the next step."

Priority List members can also take advantage of the Live the Life program, which allows guests to stay overnight in a furnished suite, utilize amenities, join club meetings, dine at on-campus restaurants, and chat with current residents.

"The itinerary is planned ahead of time based on your interests, and all meals you enjoy in the restaurants are complimentary," says Cirelli.

More support

After making the decision to move to Cedar Crest, the couple continued attending Priority List events designed to help future residents plan for their upcoming moves.

"We downsized from a house to a condo 20 years ago," says Peggy. "But we decided that, at this stage in our lives, further downsizing made sense."

She adds, "The group presentations we attended on downsizing and decluttering were so valuable in getting us to the right frame of mind to make the move."

Giving back

Since their June 2024 move, Peggy and Tony have been making the most of the community's vibrant lifestyle.

"Tony and I are avid ballroom dancers, so we wanted to be able to dance regularly [at Cedar Crest]," Peggy explains. "With the help of Community Resources Coordinator Melissa Hardison, we established the Share Your Steps dance club. We meet weekly to dance to a variety of music and meet like-minded residents."

Peggy also joined the dining committee of the Resident Advisory Council. Together, they participate in exercise classes at the fitness center and volunteer as resident ambassadors, helping prospective and new residents get to know the community--the same way they were supported during their initial visits.

"Cedar Crest was definitely a good choice for us!" says Peggy, who loves sharing her positive experiences with others.

Request more information today to learn more about all the different ways you can explore the vibrant lifestyle at Cedar Crest.

By Susan Ingram