When Pat Koszarek began thinking about her next chapter, her biggest concern was downsizing. After touring Granite Farms Estates, she realized the one-bedroom Freedom model was perfect for her needs.
With a spacious bedroom, an extra closet, and plenty of wall space to display photos from her travels, Pat found a home that gave her comfort without clutter.
“I love my closet,” she laughed. “I can tuck things away and still have room for everything that matters.”
Prioritizing Family and New Friendships
Location also played a big role in Pat’s decision. With three children nearby, she wanted to be closer to family while still living independently.
“My children are thrilled that I’m here,” she said. “I’m close enough when they need me, but I’m also out of their hair because I’m just as busy as they are.”
From card games three times a week to water aerobics, quilting, and volunteering at The Second Chances shop, Pat keeps an active schedule. “Living here is like being on a cruise ship—you can be as busy or as laid back as you want every day.”
Family time remains special, too. Every Wednesday, her daughter stops by — with the family dog—for a homecooked meal and a walk around Granite Farms’ scenic grounds. And when Pat isn’t cooking for family, she enjoys the community’s dining options.
“I have very nice people I can dine with whenever I’m in the dining room. I really enjoy that, instead of eating by myself,” she said.
Pat said she made friends quickly, within weeks of moving in, despite not knowing anyone when she moved in. She describes the community as welcoming and inviting, and has picked up new hobbies and interests.
“I'm making a quilt for my 13-year-old granddaughter. It's the first one I've ever made and lots of really terrific people have helped me through the process," she said. “I want to get to woodshop next, I haven't done that yet!”
Ultimate Peace of Mind
For Pat, moving to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) was primarily for peace of mind for the future. Having cared for her mother after a stroke, she knew firsthand the challenges of finding quality care in a crisis.
“I did not want my children to have that burden,” she said.
She researched CCRCs and found it's the best investment to safeguard your future.
“When you think of what you're paying month to month at a CCRC, then compare it to the private pay rate if you needed more care later, there is no comparison," she explained. "It's a bargain.”
Learn more about our spacious Freedom one-bedroom apartments and meet our happy residents!
