Ways to Stay Active in Our Independent Living Community

Retirement shouldn't mean slowing down; it's a new chapter full of possibilities. As we age, staying active in our daily lives leads to greater health, sharper minds and a joyful lifestyle. At The Village at Woods Edge in Franklin, Virginia, our Independent Living residents have countless opportunities to stay engaged, energized, and connected every day. From spontaneous afternoon strolls to lively cook-offs, our community is a place where movement meets camaraderie.

Embracing an Active Lifestyle at The Village at Woods Edge

At The Village at Woods Edge, we believe that wellness blossoms through a combination of physical movement, social interaction, and mental engagement. Our philosophy is rooted in a simple truth: When you're doing things you love, you're nourishing your body and spirit together. 

On our campus, wellness isn't one-size-fits-all. Our activities are designed to suit all ability levels and personal passions. Some residents join our fitness classes, while others find joy tending community gardens or paint workshops with friends. Every season brings new opportunities. Our residents say it best:

"I thoroughly enjoy all of it; it keeps me very busy, and lots to look forward to ... A friend told me, 'Susan, you sound happier than I've heard you in a long time. I enjoyed being with my daughter's family in Florida, the weather, and being near the ocean and the gulf, but I didn't get to know too many people. But here, I stay active, have friends, and there is plenty to do." — Susan Little, resident of the Apartments at The Village. 

Physical Activities and Fitness Opportunities

We keep moving, rain or shine! Our "Sole Mates" walking group is beloved by many of our residents. The group meets routinely to stroll through the outdoor sidewalk trails across our campus as well as our indoor community areas. It doesn't matter if the weather is drizzling or dazzling. We're all about taking steps together and motivating one another. We also offer a variety of on-site fitness options, such as chair yoga, light cardio and group movement classes tailored for seniors.

For those who crave a little more intensity in their routine, our partnership with the nearby YMCA opens up a world of possibilities. Residents can participate in swimming, aquatics classes, and other group fitness programs. We provide scheduled transportation to and from the YMCA, ensuring every resident who wants to dive into aerobics or join a strength class has the means to do so. Fitness has never been more accessible or more social.

Social Engagement and Community Events

Active living is social, too. Whether gathering around the breakfast table or crafting together in the afternoon, our residents find connection in shared experiences. 

Our Gentlemen's Breakfast is a popular tradition, offering strong coffee, hearty conversations, and bonds that form when neighbors gather together. 

Creative passions shine during arts and crafts events. This July, we'll be partnering with Rawls Art Museum for another exciting art workshop. We also provide neurologically stimulating options for our residents. Educational talks, including our ongoing Cyber Security lecture series, keep minds agile and curiosity fed, while live musical performances provide exciting opportunities to appreciate culture and engage socially.

If you prefer engaging with smaller circles or have niche interests, you're in luck. From bridge partners and knitting groups to gardening co-ops and Bible groups, clubs flourish here. Our next new group could be born from your passion.

Summer is the perfect season to enjoy a local farmers market or summer concert series around town. 

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Dining at The Village at Woods Edge is a destination in itself. At the Back Porch & Grille, residents enjoy fresh, flavorful, nutritious meals served daily in a warm, inviting space.

Shared mealtimes are the perfect gatherings. Neighbors can catch up, debate today's crossword, or laugh over shared stories. From organized cooking activities to special holiday-themed meals, we create the perfect recipe for a vibrant lifestyle. Look ahead to our next themed dinner, our "Cheeseburger in Paradise" night, complementing our recent “Margarita” themed night. There are also opportunities to get hands-on with cooking demos led by our talented Wellness Coordinator, Fran Neave. Check out our community calendar for her latest showcase!

Ready to debut your favorite recipe? Preparations are underway for our community cookbook. 

Exploring Franklin, Virginia

Active senior living doesn't stop at our campus gates. Franklin, VA, is bursting with opportunities for walking, tasting, and exploring, and we make them all accessible.

Here are some of our residents' favorite local spots:

• Goose Hill Farm & Market: Get fresh produce and cheerful greetings from local farmers.
• River Road Farm. Experience seasonal events, scenic walks, and friendly faces. They also offer a grass fed beef market. 
• Franklin Market on Main. Check out the weekly market under downtown awnings on Saturday mornings. 
• Cypress Grove Country Club. Enjoy a round of golf and views.
• Blackwater Park. See wildlife, and explore riverside trails and peaceful play spots.

We regularly organize transportation to downtown Franklin, where our residents can enjoy boutique shops, cafes, and local eateries. As part of our Rooted summer excursion series, our residents enjoy trips to museums throughout the Western Tidewater region. 

Personalized Wellness Plans

True wellness is a personal pursuit, and that's exactly how we approach it at The Village at Woods Edge. Our wellness program focuses on taking care of all dimensions of human health: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. When you move into our Independent Living community, our team takes the time to learn your interests, preferences, and lifestyle aspirations. Residents are able to build a personalized wellness plan, using tools like our activity calendar and amenities to support long-term wellness. Our resident-first approach keeps your needs, pursuits and daily rhythms front and center.

Fran Neave, our dedicated Wellness Coordinator, works one-on-one with residents in our Apartments and Cottages who are in need of wellness support. Whether it's scheduling physician check-ups and follow-ups, or simply making connections to form a wellness routine, Fran helps residents maintain their best life. Plus, our partnership with Powerback Therapy Services offers both short-term rehab and ongoing wellness maintenance programs to keep you strong and independent.

Live Well, Age Well

At The Village at Woods Edge, Independent Living is about connection, movement, and joy. For those seeking active senior living in Virginia, our community offers the perfect environment to thrive.

Contact us today at 757-517-2791 to schedule a tour and discover a lifestyle of vitality, independent choice, and fun that's waiting for you on our campus.