Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury Recognizes Older Americans Month
May is Older Americans Month and Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury (RWC) is proud to celebrate two of its longest-standing residents, Charlie Miller and Pat Morris, who have been living at RWC since 1998 and 2001, respectively. These two residents have seen many changes in the community during their time here and have thoroughly enjoyed their experiences.
Miller, a former Marine Corps officer and long-time resident of Virginia, learned about RWC through two couples at his church who were active residents here. They spoke highly of the activities and amenities available, which ultimately convinced Charlie to make RWC his home. Charlie’s experience at RWC has been overwhelmingly positive, and he has moved to several residential units over the years as his needs have changed.
“At almost 101 years old and after living in four different units here, I look back and say that this was the right decision,” Miller said. “In Assisted Living, I receive three delightful meals a day, make new friends, and participate in activities at my level.”
Miller appreciates that RWC provides medical help, food supply, and physical assistance as well as the many activities available to residents.
Morris, originally from Pennsylvania, and her husband Carl, were looking for a place to retire where they wouldn’t have to deal with snow and shoveling. They visited several Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) in several states and ultimately chose RWC because of the strong connections they made with resident couples.
Unfortunately, soon after they moved, Carl was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Working with RWC staff, the couple helped develop a Parkinson’s Support Group on campus that has expanded to include more services to residents and surrounding areas.
Morris enjoys watercolor painting, quilting and playing the piano and has found many opportunities to stay engaged with the community.
“The advice I would give to anyone considering moving here is this: decide where YOU want to be in 20 years and make the decision,” Morris said.
According to both of RWC’s longest standing residents, the biggest benefits of living at RWC are the many resources available to residents, the assistance provided when needed, and the sense of community and belonging. They both advise anyone considering moving to a retirement community to do it sooner rather than later.
“It has proven to have been one of the best decisions of my life, and I have been enjoying it for 25 years,” Miller said. “Do not wait. Do it NOW. Look, listen, ask and read. Talk to current residents.”
RWC is proud to celebrate Charlie Miller and Pat Morris. We are grateful for their continued presence in our community and hope that their positive experiences will inspire others to consider moving here as well.