Friendship Village of Schaumburg resident enjoys the cooking-free perks of senior living
When Barbara Hershberger first moved in to Friendship Village senior living community eight years ago, she made the decision to rent her apartment rather than buy in.
"My money was tied up in other ways, and they offered me a rental option," said Hershberger.
She receives all of the same amenities as every Friendship Village resident.
Hershberger is excited about the new rental agreements being offered to incoming residents.
"I was grateful for the opportunity to become part of this community and I am glad that we'll be able to welcome additional new neighbors," she said.
Barbara's self-professed most notorious claim to fame is that she's never turned on her stove or oven since living in the community. Hershberger's apartment has a lovely, well-equipped kitchen. While she admittedly may use her microwave and fridge, she doesn't cook.
No need. With five wonderful dining venues within its walls, Friendship Village offers all the fresh, healthy food she could want. And she enjoys the opportunity to visit with friends while dining in one of Friendship Village's many great eateries.
Moving here, Hershberger said, "was the best thing I ever did. My family feels the same way. I stay active and engaged. I'm 87, and I'm healthier and getting more mental stimulation than ever before."
One of the most extraordinary things about living at Friendship Village, Hershberger said, is that she feels like she's emerged from living in a cocoon.
"Here, at Friendship Village, I've found people of different faiths, cultures and ethnicities, as well as interests and hobbies. It's very enriching," she said.
Hershberger has been on the residency association, pom pom squad, choir, Laff a Minute comedy group, marketing ambassadors, prayer group, current event discussion groups and card groups. She works out and participates in dancercise and line dancing. She has conducted interviews with interesting residents for Friendship Village's in-house television.
"Everybody here has a special story,"she said.
What she doesn't do is cook- because she doesn't want to. Nor does she have to deal with any of the burdens of home ownership.
Friendship Village is a leading Life Plan retirement community offering independent living garden homes and apartment homes, as well as assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing care, and short-term rehabilitation services. For 45 years, Friendship Village has been providing Chicago area seniors with exceptional retirement living options. For additional information, call (847) 884-5110 or visit www.FriendshipVillage.org.