Otterbein resident Annett K. and her husband were living in South Carolina when they decided to make the move back to Ohio. Their whole process - from viewing homes to settling on one - was done remotely.
Learn more about Annett’s experience and hear her advice for others who are considering a move to a retirement community.
Making the Move to Otterbein
Annett and her husband, who is bedridden, were living in South Carolina, more than 500 miles from her home state of Ohio, when she decided her next step needed to be returning to St. Marys. That meant she had to do everything remotely, from touring homes to arranging a move.
Annett said Rita Hilty, independent SeniorLife counselor at Otterbein St. Marys, made it all possible.
“Rita was able to give us a remote sell of our home…and just accommodated me with everything, including things like measuring all the cabinets,” she said.
Annett chose a patio home on campus and began arranging the move with help from the Otterbein team, especially Rita.
“Every time I would start wringing my hands, it was Rita to the rescue - she’d say, ‘We can take care of that, we can take care of this.’ Our things were moved in when we got here. And I felt like I knew the place when I finally walked in.
“I just can't imagine a better to go to make life easy. It's easy living here. Your needs are taken care of, everyone is helpful, everyone is friendly; the sense of community here is very special. It doesn't hurt that this is a community of residents, many of whom I know, or my husband knew. It's just a beautiful, beautiful place to live,” she said.
Health & Safety At Otterbein
The health and safety of all residents, their families, and staff at Otterbein is our top concern. Annett said she feels as safe on campus as she would anywhere: “Otterbein is so COVID-conscious and so mask-conscious.”
She gave the example of calling for maintenance one day and the maintenance employee arriving in a medical gown and face shield.
Annett added, “I had no hesitation in thinking that they would not provide a safe environment. Never did I question - or have reason to question - that we wouldn't be safe here. And we have been. They keep us informed.”
Advice for Other Retirees
Annett had some important advice for other people considering a move to Otterbein.
“If you're thinking of coming to a retirement community, don't hesitate - now is the time,” she said. “Why continue with all the chores? I used to love to garden - I used to do all the outdoor things.
“But there came a time that it's not fun anymore - it's work. It's hard work. Why spend your life working? Why not spend your life sitting back and just looking out at the scenery? Or just being - enjoy the time you have left, just being. Not working.”
Learn More About Otterbein St. Marys
Explore our vibrant campus and see a sample of our floor plans. What makes life at Otterbein St. Marys so special? Take a look for yourself.
