Living Well at Fox Run

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 certainly holds true at Fox Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., where residents have plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors through clubs, exercise classes, volunteer efforts, creative pursuits, and shared meals.

"Residents enjoy a worry-free lifestyle, which provides time to explore interests, meet new people, and make friends," explains Resident Life Director Pam Cameron.

Just ask Lori Cash, who has lived at Fox Run for a little over a year. "I probably have 50 new friends that I've made here!" she says. "Everyone is so friendly."

Worry-free living

Lori loved the condo she previously lived in, but the responsibility of handling appliance repairs was becoming a burden. Intrigued by the maintenance-free homes at Fox Run, she decided to attend a lunch presentation at the community.

"When I listened to what they were talking about, I realized that if I moved there, I wouldn't have to worry about anything anymore," she recalls.

"Home maintenance and repairs, landscaping, and even snow removal are taken care of by the expert General Services team," says Cameron. "This allows residents to focus on what matters most--pursuing hobbies, attending events, joining clubs, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family."

Sold on the community's worry-free lifestyle, Lori reserved a one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home. Shortly after moving in, she began making friends--more than she ever expected.

Supportive friends

To her surprise, she made many connections during her very first dining experience as a resident.

"I was a little apprehensive because I was by myself," recalls Lori. But she approached the host stand and asked to be seated with someone. Lots of residents wanted her to join them.

"Boom! All of a sudden, I've got all these friends," she says. "It was wonderful."

In fact, many of these new friends stepped up to help and support her when she discovered she needed to have both knees replaced.

"The day after my surgery, neighbors stopped by with muffins," she recalls. "They said, 'If you need anything, call us.' The community really came together to assist me when I was recovering. Everybody was fabulous."

Active and engaged

Since making a full recovery, Lori has maintained a busy schedule filled with friends and fun.

She has a standing date with friends to go to the movies on campus and enjoys playing games such as Rummikub and Qwirkle. On Thursday nights, she plays dice games with a group.

Lori also attends movies and talks presented by the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee, and she joined the women's social group that welcomes guest speakers once a month. The book club she started with her close friend and neighbor, Sally Kendrick, is gaining traction.

To stay fit, she visits the fitness center often and walks the grounds every day when the weather is nice. When it isn't, she walks through the community's climate-controlled walkways, stopping to smile and say hello to a neighbor.

Other ways to connect

"There are so many ways to get involved here," says Cameron. "With dozens of clubs spanning a range of interests, there is practically something for everyone. And if you don't find a group that relates to your interest, you can start your own with our help."

Fox Run's fitness classes, astronomy club, center for continuous learning, men's and mixed choirs, and religious groups are well-attended, and the indoor pool, media center, hobby shop, and creative arts studio are always hubs of activity.

"The six restaurants here are also popular places to socialize," notes Cameron.

'The best move'

For Lori, these convenient activities and amenities allow her to meet new people, pursue her interests, and--most importantly--enjoy the worry-free retirement lifestyle she's always wanted.

"I'm no longer concerned about living alone because there are so many people around me here," says Lori, who also maintains ties to the local community.

As a Novi resident for more than 30 years, she enjoys dining with longtime friends at their favorite local restaurants and volunteering at the area farmers market.

"Coming to Fox Run is the best move I've ever made!" she says.

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing an engaging retirement lifestyle.

By Michele Wojciechowski