Living Well at Riderwood

People who live in retirement communities are less lonely, more active, and more engaged than before they moved in, according to a June 2025 U.S. News & World Report survey.

That's certainly been the case for James "Jimmy" Schreiber and Marcia Joiner, who have enjoyed a vibrant lifestyle filled with activities and meaningful interactions since their January 2025 move to Riderwood, an Erickson Senior Living community in Silver Spring, Md.

"We've met so many people through activities, dinners, and just walking around the campus," says Jimmy. "There's always something to do, and many of the people we've met have become genuine friends."

A friendly community

Jimmy and Marcia became acquainted with the community through friends who had already moved to Riderwood.

"I used to visit Riderwood every two weeks," Marcia says. "I saw firsthand how happy my friends were."

"We were invited to parties in neighbors' homes before we even moved in. People were friendly right from the start," says Jimmy.

After settling into their new home at Riderwood, the couple continued to receive warm welcomes and support from neighbors.

"People really look out for each other here," says Marcia. "For instance, when we need someone to take care of our cat Clyde, we just ask, and people are happy to help. It's little things like that that illustrate that Riderwood really is a community. It's a friendly, welcoming place."

Active and engaged

Having seen all the activities available to residents firsthand, Jimmy and Marcia didn't waste any time getting involved.

"I started square dancing right away, and now it's something I dearly love," says Marcia. "I also performed in the spring play Hay Fever, take boot camp and Zumba classes, and play pickleball. Once a month, I help with the compost collection. It doesn't take a lot of time, but it's important work."

In his newfound free time, Jimmy is teaching himself how to play the piano--something he has always wanted to do.

"I get up early, walk to the lobby, and play the grand piano. I'm only plinking, but I really enjoy it," he says, with a laugh. "I tried a few times before in my life, but now I have the time and focus to learn."

He also attends lifelong learning classes at Riderwood, offered through Prince George's Community College, and plays table tennis and pickleball.

Together, the couple attends Saturday night movies, concerts, and religious services. "Riderwood brings in wonderful performers and lecturers," says Marcia. "We've gone to so many events."

Other ways to connect

In addition to these events and activities, Riderwood's array of amenities makes it even easier for residents to catch up with neighbors and make new friends.

At the fitness center, residents can sign up for Pilates, yoga, and strength training classes--just to name a few. "When we lived in our house, I took exercise classes online," says Marcia. "Now, with a short walk to the fitness center, I can take boot camp and Zumba in person."

Jimmy appreciates dining with friends and neighbors in Riderwood's nine on-site restaurants, where meals are prepared to order by skilled chefs.

"When we moved, I didn't realize how social dining would be," he says. "We keep a calendar of who we're having dinner with and at which restaurant. Almost every day, by choice, we eat with friends. It's very fulfilling."

Worry-free living

Fiona Divecha, Riderwood's resident life director, notes that residents are able to maintain such busy, social calendars thanks to the community's worry-free lifestyle. Home maintenance, including appliance repair and replacement, is handled by the expert General Services team.

"Residents can participate in activities, spend time volunteering, or take a trip and know their home is safe and cared for. That peace of mind lets them truly enjoy this chapter of life," she explains.

This active lifestyle is new to Jimmy and Marcia, but they couldn't imagine their retirement any other way now.

"When we lived in our former house, Jimmy didn't even have a calendar," says Marcia, with a laugh. "I used the one on my phone, but now that's too small. I had to order one of those big calendars! We have at least three or four things going on each day."

She continues, "There are just so many opportunities here. When people asked me why I wanted to move to Riderwood, I answered, 'I want to have more fun!' Since our move, we have not been disappointed."

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Kelly Shue