After 40 years in Minneapolis, Glenn and Annette never imagined they would return to the Pennsylvania community where they both grew up. But six years ago, Annette's parents, residents of EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton, were experiencing declining health. Glenn and Annette decided it was time to be closer.
"My parents' situation made us ask ourselves, 'Where do we want to be as seniors?'" Annette said.
The couple began exploring options for a life plan community for their own
retirement years and soon realized that the research her parents did in choosing EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton made it the right choice for her and her husband as well.
"What really reassured us was knowing there are multiple levels of care," Glenn said. "We can enjoy independent living now, but if our needs change, personal care and skilled nursing are all right here on campus."
The Benevolent Care program, which provides financial assistance to residents who have exhausted their financial resources, also gave them confidence about the future.
"Knowing we will always have a place to call home gives us peace of mind," said Annette, whose parents resided in Personal Care. "And if one of us needs different levels of care, we're still here together in the same community."
Nestled among rolling hills and scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains, the community quickly became home for Annette and Glenn.
"Living here, we fell in love with the campus," Glenn said. "The green spaces, the million-dollar views, the peacefulness — it feels just right."
For Glenn and Annette, retirement is filled with creativity and purpose. Glenn, a musician whose career included teaching music in New York public schools and working in orchestra management, continues to share his love of music in and around the community. He performs at local churches, serves on the Board for Friends of Chamber Music of Reading and collaborates with Kutztown University musicians to bring concerts to residents.
"Music has always been a huge part of my life," Glenn said. "Being able to continue sharing it here has been incredibly meaningful."
Meanwhile, Annette has transformed a once-empty hallway into a vibrant resident art gallery featuring seasonal exhibits, local artists and resident creations. She also leads card-making classes and tends flowers and shrubs around the neighborhood.
"I've always loved art and gardening," Annette said. "Here, I've had the opportunity to keep doing the things I enjoy while also helping create something special for others."
For Glenn and Annette, EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton was the right choice for them, just as it was for her parents.
"We truly feel like we're living Life According to YOU," Glenn said. "This community has given us the freedom to stay active, creative and connected."
Discover what Life According to YOU could look like. Call today to schedule your personal tour of EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton: 610-835-1545.