The Westerwood retirement community readies itself for a new generation of retirees.

Westerwood, formerly known as Friendship Village Columbus, is undergoing a renaissance to appeal to modern elders who demand more from community living in retirement.

Located near Westerville and Otterbein University, the community sits on a walkable, 23-acre wooded campus with its own nature refuge and nearly a mile of walkways. While in the city, “it feels like we’re in the middle of the woods,” says one resident.

Yet, there’s nothing rustic about Westerwood. It offers a full continuum of modern options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and long-term care. And as a nonprofit Life Plan community, it offers something for-profit communities cannot:

Life Care contracts—a good hedge against inflation to protect seniors from skyrocketing living costs.

“While Life Care is important to well-being, so is lifestyle,” says Lisa Burkhart, Westerwood Executive Director. “It’s why we continually invest in our community with new amenities and services. For example, we recently added an outdoor fire pit, putting green, bocce ball court, and more raised garden beds.”

So, what kinds of residents does Westerwood attract? Many Otterbein University alums call the community home, including a former athletic director and a president. In fact, Otterbein’s Lifelong Learning program is available to residents, along with 120+ community events every year and plenty of resident-driven activities, as well.

Introducing The Gardens at Westerwood.

In 2022 the community will begin construction on a new venue that is expected this spring. Ranging from one to two bedrooms, with two baths standard, The Gardens at Westerwood center around a common lounge with a fireplace and entertainment space. All the new apartments have private outdoor patios and a one- or two-car garage for extra storage.

Westerwood at a glance:

• Amenities: Gym with various fitness classes daily, chefcreated meals, professional art studio and woodshop, • and clubs (singing, book, music, birdwatching, writing, and more)

Friendship Woods: A walkable nature refuge with wild birds and deer

“It feels like we’re in the middle of the woods.” —Westerwood Resident

• Living options: Independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, longterm care, and rehab for those aged 60+

• Life Care contracts: Peace of mind should you ever need escalating health services

• Nonprofit status: Regulated by the State of Ohio and our governing Board, Westerwood reinvests all money into the community

• Address: 5800 Forest Hills Blvd, Columbus, Ohio 43231— about five minutes from Westerville

To learn more, please visit Liveatwesterwood.org.