Retirement Living
Consider the Shenandoah Valley

Fall-Winter 2007
by Dave Reynolds

If you're traveling through the Shenandoah Valley for a few hours or a few days, think about what it would be like to spend a few years here. Have you thought of retiring here?

More and more seniors and empty nesters, relocating to the Valley for their retirement years, say they first considered moving here while on a brief visit—perhaps while just passing through or while taking a son or daughter to college. First impressions count, and the Shenandoah Valley is definitely ready to impress!

The Shenandoah Valley offers verdant landscapes, breathtaking vistas, starry skies, nearby mountains and big cities; Southern charm; and a choice of lifestyle—rural, small town, suburban, or city—with all the opportunities each of those affords.

Actually, retiring in the Shenandoah Valley is often worth more than a passing thought. It may be a good investment—why not trade a costly, cold and crowded region for a less expensive, warmer and quieter place? ...In other words, why not trade up to a better quality of life at a better price?

First, though, decide if the Valley is a good fit. The fit is important, because retiring here is not the same as moving to desert country or to Florida. We don't offer warm, sunny days year-'round, but we do offer a moderate climate and a great location—often closer to family and dear friends.

A typical Shenandoah Valley retiree sees their retirement years as a time of balance between activity and leisure, as well as a change from the pressure and 'requirements' of their pre-retirement days. Healthy retirement includes physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction. The reasons the Valley offers such a good balance in retirement living are many—a history which makes us proud; abundant colleges which keep us smart and sophisticated; and, beautiful open vistas and spaces which inspire us. We also feel safe here. The biggest reason is the people—of all ages. Valley folks are happy folks. And their happiness is contagious.

The Shenandoah Valley has residential retirement communities, open acreage and small farms, gated communities and life-care centers. Baldwin Park in Staunton and Kendal at Lexington are just two of the many fine, residential retirement communities attracting active seniors to the Valley.

Check out the Shenandoah Valley. I bet we'll be seeing you again soon—and welcoming you to your new home!

Article text ©2007, Shenandoah Specialty Publishing, LLC.
May be printed for personal use only.

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