Share

Norma and Nick Hagedoorn say the secret to a 67-year marriage is their strong faith.

“We pray together,” said Norma. “And that makes it work.”

The couple moved to Windmere, Christian Health’s residential health care community, over ten years ago, after several of their friends raved about how much they love the close-knit community.

“We came to visit them, and when we were on our way home, Nick said, ‘You know, I could easily live there,’” said Norma. “And I said, ‘I was going to say the same thing!’ So we felt mutually that Windmere is where we would like to be. And we’ve been very, very happy here.”

Nick and Norma love the social and vibrant atmosphere in the senior-living community and enjoy many activities with their friends and neighbors, such as shuffleboard, bingo, and cards.

“We just had a new couple move in, and they were very excited that there were things they could do together,” said Norma. “They asked us to play cards, so we set up a table with four chairs in our apartment. We can play cards just like we used to – it really makes it a home.”

The camaraderie among residents of Windmere is certainly a benefit of life in the community. Residents not only share hobbies and gather together to socialize but also support one another when times get tough.

“There’s no reason to feel lonely because the people here are so friendly,” said Norma. “It’s like one big, happy family. When people have health or family problems, we pray with them.”

The couple is also fond of the big, beautiful communal dining room, where they share daily meals with the community’s other residents. The food even impresses Nick, a self-proclaimed “picky eater.”

“If you don’t care for something, they’ll make something else for you instead of what is on the menu,” he said. “I can always find something to eat that I like.”

“I enjoy not having to go shopping for food and preparing it,” added Norma. “It’s wonderful that we get to feel like we’re going out for dinner every night. Plus, you don’t have to go far and no matter if the weather is good or bad, you’ll still have a meal here.”

“It’s very, very, ‘kozelek,’” she said. “That’s Dutch for warm and welcoming.”

Learn More About Life at Windmere

If you are looking for a warm, welcoming environment that encourages independence but provides the security of easily accessible care, Windmere might be right for you. The inviting residential care community offers an intimate atmosphere that truly feels like home, with services you can trust. To learn more about Windmere or schedule a tour, please call (973) 427-4087 or visit WindmereNJ.org/Contact-Us/.

Share