More Than a Beautiful Setting
Location, location, location is often the mantra for choosing the perfect home.
While GreenFields of Geneva senior living community’s beautiful setting certainly stands out, it’s not what matters most. What truly defines GreenFields is the people, people, people, the residents, team members, and neighbors whose warmth, creativity, and camaraderie transform a scenic setting into a place that feels like home. Combined with the advantages of a Life Plan Community where residents can continue to live and thrive, even as their needs change, it becomes clear why GreenFields is the perfect place to call home.
A Thoughtful Decision for the Future
Sharie and Chuck Pedersen have lived at GreenFields for 11 years. In 2014, when Sharie turned 70, she and a friend spent the summer visiting senior living communities without a clear plan in mind. But with their son and his family away on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, the couple began thinking more intentionally about how they’d navigate their future.
Finding the Right Fit
When they visited GreenFields, everything clicked. They were drawn to its location, nestled among scenic golf courses with resident access, offering a peaceful, country feel while still being close to Randall Road, shopping, and restaurants. Its smaller size made it easy to get to know others and feel connected.
The Value of a Life Plan Community
The community’s Life Plan model was very important to them. Also known as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), GreenFields offers a full continuum of care, all under one roof, providing independent living with access to assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing care should healthcare needs change.
Peace of Mind Through Experience
For the Pedersens, that peace of mind was essential, especially after having experienced the challenges of relocating Sharie’s mother when she needed to move from her assisted living community to one offering skilled nursing when she was well into her 90s. It was a difficult transition, and the Pedersens wanted to avoid a similar situation. “We knew we didn’t want to go through that,” said Sharie.
Care That Comes to You
Just a few years after the Pedersens’ move, the additional levels of care proved invaluable. After open-heart surgery, Sharie was able to recover in skilled nursing at GreenFields before returning home. Chuck completed rehabilitation right in their apartment following ankle replacement. The ability to receive care without leaving the community made a meaningful difference.
Financial Confidence and Stability
In addition to residents being able to stay in the community if their needs change, the Life Plan model also provides financial clarity. The Pedersens’ contract offers more predictable expenses and even potential tax advantages similar to those of long-term care insurance.
“We felt that at our age, it was important to be secure and have a reasonable idea of our future expenses,” Chuck said. As a member of the finance committee, it’s reassuring to him that the community’s overall financial picture is strong. “Occupancy here is at 100 percent. The road we’re on is good. We’re in good hands with Lifespace” (which owns and manages GreenFields).
A Community That Feels Like Family
Daily life at GreenFields continues to reflect what drew them there in the first place. The team is attentive, courteous, and committed to making sure residents have what they want and need. Fellow residents are welcoming and engaging, bringing a wide range of life experiences that enrich conversations and friendships. The surrounding community adds another layer of connection, creating an environment that feels both vibrant and supportive.
Getting Involved and Giving Back
The Pedersens have become deeply involved in the active lifestyle at GreenFields. Chuck leads the men’s breakfast group and has served on the resident council and building committees. Sharie has contributed to outreach efforts, special events, and the lifestyles committee.
A Decision Worth Making Again
Looking back, neither would change a thing. “I’d make the same decision again in a minute,” Sharie said. Chuck agrees. “It’s been a good move. We’ve met wonderful people and built friendships here and beyond.”
Home, Defined by People
For the Pedersens, GreenFields is more than a place to live. It is a place to feel secure, stay connected, and enjoy each day, surrounded by people who make it truly feel like home.
