When Eileen Young lost her husband six years ago, her life changed dramatically. “I traveled for a living and I was very social,” she reflects. “And then suddenly, I was alone. My family was concerned about me living by myself, but I thought I was fine. My grandson, Kristopher, was particularly vocal. As an EMT, he’s been called in to help many older people and he was worried when I broke my pelvis.”
Luckily, Kristopher’s job has made him very familiar with all the senior living communities in the area, and he knew which one would be the best fit for his grandmother. “He said, ‘The Heritage of Green Hills is the Taj Mahal. Everybody’s happy, everybody’s friendly, and the staff is incredible,’” Young laughs.
Kristopher, who is currently following in his grandmother’s footsteps by attending nursing school, accompanied her on visits to several different communities, and in the end, she agreed that Shillington, Pa.’s premier lifeplan community was perfect for her.
“I’m very glad I listened,” she explains. “I moved in just before Christmas, and I’m having a wonderful time meeting new people and jumping into everything the community offers. It wasn’t until I got here and started making friends and joining activities that I realized just how lonely and isolated I had become.”
A Life Full of Laughter and Companionship
Young’s favorite activity at The Heritage is water volleyball. She plays three times a week and loves every moment. “We laugh the whole time,” she says. “Nobody takes it too seriously. We keep score, but winning or losing doesn’t matter—it’s all about fun, exercise, and companionship.”
Beyond her time in the pool, Young has quickly become a part of the community in many other ways. She participates in Sittercise and line dancing, and even has plans to join the Heritage cheerleading squad, the Heritage Hotties. “I’m looking forward to making my cheerleading debut at an upcoming Reading Fightin’ Phils game. There are a few upcoming trips to see some local bands that look interesting, too!”
A Newfound Social Life
From forming a tight-knit group of friends who meet up for a drink every day at 4:45 p.m. to reconnecting with people from her past—including a man whose late wife was her Operating Room instructor in nursing school — Young has found a renewed sense of belonging.
She even formed a close friendship with another resident, who often dined alone while listening to audiobooks. One night, Young suggested they eat together, and they’ve been great friends ever since.
A Wise and Practical Choice
Beyond the social aspects, The Heritage offers the peace of mind Young is looking for. As a retired medical professional, she understands the security of living in a lifeplan community that provides exceptional continuing care onsite, if she ever needs it. She also values the professionalism and kindness of the staff — qualities her grandson Kristopher immediately recognized when compared to other communities he has seen.
Family, Support, and the Future
Young’s family has been incredibly supportive throughout her transition and she continues to enjoy their company regularly in her new home. In fact, the entire gang is coming to The Heritage for a big birthday celebration later this month, and when they’re done with their special dinner, they’re all planning to hop into the pool for a lively game of water volleyball.
From the friendships she’s built to the vibrant activities she enjoys daily, life at The Heritage of Green Hills has given Young a fresh start, filled with laughter, companionship, and a sense of home she never expected to find.
“It’s the best move I’ve made,” she says.
To find out if The Heritage of Green Hills is right for you or a loved one, schedule a tour at https://heritageofgreenhills.com/contact/ or call 484-269-5100.
