Goshen, N.Y. (July 1, 2011) – Glen Arden celebrated 15 years of helping seniors live their lives to the fullest as residents of the continuing care retirement community. Residents, their families and the community attended celebratory events at the Goshen-based retirement community in early June.
At the celebration held June 4 and 5, residents and families enjoyed dancing and listening to swing music by “A Lady & 3 Gents,” a live broadcast from WHUD, and tango and tap dancing performances by local artists.
Glen Arden is one of just 12 Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) in New York State. Glen Arden offers a comprehensive program of independent living, along with assisted living and skilled nursing care.
Among those joining the celebration were 26 residents who moved there during the first year of Glen Arden’s opening.
One of the residents is Mrs. Jean Reiter, the very first resident to move into Glen Arden. On June 1, 1996 a moving van arrived at Glen Arden carrying a lifetime of Mr. and Mrs. Reiter’s memories and possessions. The couple was about to begin the next chapter in their lives together as Glen Arden residents. Four other residents moved in that day, and a new community was born.
Mrs. Dee Steeger, who is currently assistant administrator for Glen Arden, was there to welcome those new neighbors as the move-in coordinator. Leading up to the move-in day, she had helped each of the new residents to select an apartment and was also with them during with the contract closing. Mrs. Steeger was also there on that first day to greet Mrs. Reiter and give her the keys that unlocked her new future.
“Over the past 15 years,” said Mrs. Steeger, “I have enjoyed watching our residents blossom after they arrive. Many had been filled with worry about taking care of a house, or being alone, but once they settle in at Glen Arden, they discover a new world filled with new friends and activities. It is a wonderful lifestyle for retirees.”
Today, Mrs. Reiter still swims in Glen Arden’s pool five days per week, and attends two exercise classes, to which her doctors credit her good health. She plays bridge and enjoys lunch in the Crystal dining room, but she also enjoys cooking her own dinner. She goes to services at the same church in Walden that she attended with her husband for many years, and enjoys meeting new people.
Residents themselves indicated that the friendships they have made while living at Glen Arden are what’s most valuable to them. They also like the professional, quality care they receive, the outstanding food, the exercise classes and swimming, activities, safety and security.
“Living at Glen Arden has kept me in the mainstream,” said resident Mrs. Johanna Pennings. “If I was still at the house I left behind I would be alone. At Glen Arden I enjoy good company, good food and a pleasant atmosphere.”
Mrs. Sibylle Reuschenbach, a resident at Glen Arden, explained the thoughts of probably many senior citizens who consider moving out of their home in their later years. “When I first moved to Glen Arden I was very reluctant to leave my home. It took a while to get used to the change, however now I tell people that they should not wait too long to make the decision. It is better to make the change earlier. I am so grateful for the support I have gained from all the friends I have made at Glen Arden. If I had stayed at my house I would be alone. Here there is always someone looking out for you. I am not dependent on trying to find help when I need it for things like home repairs, someone is always here to help you.”
Glen Arden’s original residents –
Back Row: Peg Condit, Jack Stone, Agnes Akers, Martin Hession, Gertrude Migel, Roz Golembe
Third Row: Freda Pfeffer, Patricia Hart, Annette Packer, Margaret Sullivan, Sibylle Reuschenbach, Joan Moore, Dr. Herta Schrom,
Second Row: Freida Baird, Margaret Milnamow, Nellie Nywening, Johanna Pennings
First Row: Ethel Peterson, Lucy Kohler, Mary Barrett
Not pictured: Jean Reiter, Evelyn Widemark, Elizabeth Hurd, Doris D’Italia, Mildred Ketcham, Rose Tevlin
ABOUT GLEN ARDEN
Glen Arden, the Hudson Valley’s premier Continuing Care Retirement Community, offers seniors 62 and older the perfect combination – independence with the assurance of quality health care if it’s ever needed. Located in beautiful and historic Goshen, N.Y., Glen Arden offers housing choices for an active lifestyle and support services to help residents live comfortably and independently.
