Living Life to the Fullest at Westerwood: The Greenmans’ Story.
For Donna and Michael Greenman, life has always been about staying curious and embracing new experiences together, even after nearly 53 beautiful years of marriage.
From living in multiple countries to traveling across the world, they’ve built a life full of meaningful experiences and lasting memories. And when it came time to plan their next chapter, they weren’t looking to slow down. They were searching for a place that would help them continue living fully. That search eventually led them to Westerwood—a community that immediately felt friendlier than anywhere else they’ve been. They’ve lived at Westerwood for three years, and their story is still unfolding in a place that feels like home and happily ever after. Learn more about their journey and how it continues to grow.
How did their exciting adventure begin?
Donna and Michael knew they wanted to downsize because maintaining a home with stairs, a large garden and rising property taxes was becoming more work than they wanted at this stage of life. But instead of waiting until they needed extra support, they chose to make the move while they were still active and independent.
“We visited five retirement communities,” Michael says. “But when we came to Westerwood, there was a different feeling here. Everyone greeted us in the hallways. They were so friendly and welcoming.”
The atmosphere immediately stood out to them and made them feel confident they were making the right choice. Finding the right apartment also sealed the deal. Their first-floor home, complete with a patio and plenty of natural light, gives them a quiet, comfortable space while keeping them close to everything Westerwood has to offer.
“We can sit outside with our morning coffee and enjoy the trees in the courtyard,” Donna says. “And if we want activities, music, exercise or dining, we just open the door and go down the hall. Or we can hop in the car and go anywhere we want. It’s the best of both worlds.”
What does active senior living look like for them today?
Their days are rarely quiet. Donna plays piano for multiple music groups and vespers services, while Michael plays clarinet in the community ensemble. Together, they participate in exercise classes, resident committees, social groups and special events throughout the week.
The Greenmans also help lead Westerwood’s Special Events and Entertainment Committee, where they organize educational speakers, travel presentations, concerts and performances for residents. “We’ve had incredible programs here,” Donna says. “Last night we had a concert pianist perform and it was fabulous.”
Even after years of global travel and countless life experiences, they say one of the most surprising discoveries has been the depth of community they’ve found at Westerwood.
“I was shocked by how much this feels like a real community,” Donna says. “People genuinely care about each other here.”
Finding ways to make new friends and help others.
The couple’s connections grew even stronger at Westerwood when many people from their church community also moved in. Today, they share daily life with around two dozen friends from their church while continuing to meet and welcome new neighbors.
Donna serves as a resident representative for one of Westerwood’s four wings and helps new residents settle in and get comfortable in their new homes.
“We help people get acclimated,” she says. “People are exhausted when they first move in, and it’s important to help them feel welcomed.”
Michael also helped introduce a resident mentorship program that pairs future or incoming residents with people already living in the community who can answer questions and offer support before move-in day.
“Sometimes people just want to hear from someone who’s already living here,” he explains. “It helps people feel more at home.”
Embracing their voices (and their favorite foods).
One key detail that stood out to the Greenmans was how involved residents are in shaping community life every single day. Through resident committees and regular conversations with staff, they say residents are encouraged to share ideas—and those ideas are heard.
“One of the things that impressed us most was realizing residents really do have a voice here,” Michael says. “It’s a community where magic happens.”
Donna saw that firsthand during a Dining Committee meeting when she casually mentioned missing spinach salads on the menu. Soon after, spinach salads became a regular option.
Although they no longer take the long international trips they once enjoyed, the Greenmans still love exploring. These days, they prefer shorter adventures, local outings and experiences closer to home—many of which are organized by Westerwood’s team.
“We’ve traveled enough to know we don’t need to go everywhere anymore,” Michael says. “But we still enjoy discovering new things.” Now they continue to find adventures and joy in everyday life at Westerwood, including their dining experiences.
“You walk into the dining room, sit down at a table with white tablecloths, and someone asks what kind of soup, salad, entrée and dessert you’d like,” Donna explains. “Why would I cook?” But more than anything, they both agree that it’s the people who have made Westerwood feel like home. “There’s always something to do, and there’s always someone interesting to talk to,” Donna says.
Experience friendly senior living for yourself.
The Greenmans’ story is just one example of what life looks like here. But if you’d like to see it for yourself, we’d love to show you around. Schedule a tour, meet our team and explore what your next chapter could be like. Call 614-890-8282 to learn more today or plan your visit.
