David and Janice Rohrbach (shown above), of Boyertown, Pennsylvania, knew since 2018 that Masonic Village at Elizabethtown would be their next home. In early February 2020, Jennifer Adams, sales associate, called about an apartment available in the Sycamore South building. David and Janice loved the floor plan, and put their house on the market, which sold quickly. They dropped off their reservation check on March 13.
“We knew this is where we wanted to be,” Janice said. “The fact that it is a continuing care retirement community was a big selling point.”
About a week later, Jennifer had to relay that due to COVID-19, Masonic Village was postponing moves until further notice.
“We had sold our house, so we didn’t have a plan B,” Janice said. “By mid-April, the people we sold our house to needed a settlement date. It was very nerve–racking, but Masonic Village was able to work with us.”
Lots of Time to Unpack
The couple began moving into their new apartment on April 29. Out of an abundance of caution, they had to quarantine in their apartment for the first two weeks.
“It gave us lots of time to unpack,” Janice said. “Everyone was very helpful, and we were well cared for. Our building representative picked up our mail, and we knew who to call to collect our cardboard boxes. We had our meals delivered.”
Since moving, Janice and David have enjoyed taking walks and greeting people in the hallways. When campus restaurants opened again temporarily, they made friends since most residents take advantage of Masonic Village’s gourmet dining. They look forward to experiencing the rest of the normally bustling campus, including entertainment, classes and trips.
“Since we haven’t experienced it before,” Janice said, “we don’t know what we’re missing.”
Compared to their previous rural home, benefits to moving to Masonic Village during the pandemic include having groceries delivered (thanks to the Masonic Village Farm Market) and being closer to stores, doctor’s offices and safe walking paths.
“The best part is the peace of mind that if anything happens, you’re taken care of,” David said. “Right now, it’s just a pleasure to get out and eat a meal. The food is fantastic. We’ve already recommended Masonic Village to others.”
“We feel privileged to be here,” Janice said. “There are great possibilities.”
