For Jeff and Judy Kalla, choosing a senior living community was a decision not to be rushed. With friends already residing at Linden Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Hingham, Mass., the couple knew it was a top contender. But they wanted to experience campus life firsthand before committing.
“It was important to us to experience the community, spending time on campus and talking with current residents, before making a final decision,” Judy said.
Linden Ponds offers multiple ways for prospective residents to explore, including personalized appointments, informational events, and group tours—all without pressure. Sales Director Susan Sheehan emphasized the community’s philosophy: “We want to give people all the information they need to help them determine whether Linden Ponds is the right fit for them. That’s the most important thing!”
The Kallas began considering senior living options years ago, thinking a move was still in the future. But they recognized the value of early planning. When they received an invitation to an informational luncheon at Linden Ponds, they accepted. There, they met Sales Counselor Karmin Der, who “was extremely helpful,” Jeff recalled. “Karmin showed us whatever we wanted and had a really good grasp of what we were looking for,” Judy added.
After the luncheon, the couple frequently contacted the sales team with questions. “Everyone on the sales team was very accommodating. We would call and ask questions as they came up, and they answered honestly and without pressure,” Jeff noted.
Impressed, Jeff and Judy joined the Priority List, which reserves a spot in line for a future residence and grants access to exclusive social and informational events. The annual garden party luncheon and tour allowed them to socialize among the community’s garden patches. “It was lovely to see so many people enjoying the gardens with their neighbors,” Jeff said. “In our former house, we had half an acre that we enjoyed taking care of. It was nice to know that we could get a garden patch and continue spending time this way.”
Touring current residents’ homes helped them envision their future. “Seeing a variety of lived-in homes helped us choose the Jackson floor plan,” Judy said. “Once I walked into one of the homes, I noticed the five large windows. There was so much light. Both of us had the same feeling—this is the home we wanted.”
The Live the Life program, another Priority List perk, allowed them to stay overnight in a furnished guest suite, use amenities, join clubs, dine at on-campus restaurants, and chat with residents. Jeff attended the men’s discussion group and visited the woodshop, while Judy explored nature and photography groups. They dined with residents, walked around campus, and joined the Born in the ’50s group. “We wanted to move to Linden Ponds when we were young and able to establish new relationships,” Jeff said.
Since moving in March, the Kallas have found exactly that. “Everyone is so warm and welcoming,” Judy said. “One time, we met a woman who said, ‘I may never get to heaven, but this is close enough.’ She was right. We are so glad we moved to Linden Ponds! We are very happy.”
