Greenspring Retirement Community Fosters Active, Engaged Lifestyle

Residents find opportunities to connect, socialize, and pursue their interests at this Virginia retirement community.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Virginia, provides residents like Eileen and Jack McGirl with ample opportunities to stay active, engaged, and socially connected through a wide range of clubs, activities, and amenities. The community's worry-free lifestyle and on-site medical services also give residents and their families peace of mind.

Why it matters

As people age, maintaining an active and socially engaged lifestyle is crucial for physical and mental well-being. Greenspring's model demonstrates how retirement communities can foster a vibrant, fulfilling retirement by offering diverse programming, amenities, and support services.

The details

Soon after moving to Greenspring in 2023, Eileen and Jack McGirl began exploring the community's many clubs and activities, from archery and creative writing to genealogy and line dancing. Eileen also started a group for retired nurses to connect and share their experiences. The community's worry-free lifestyle, with home maintenance and snow removal handled by staff, allows residents to fully immerse themselves in the activities they enjoy. Greenspring's on-site medical center and continuing care services also provide peace of mind for residents and their families.

  • Eileen and Jack McGirl moved to Greenspring in 2023.
  • Eileen started the Nurses Forever group at Greenspring in 2023.

The players

Eileen McGirl

A resident of Greenspring who moved there in 2023 with her husband, Jack. Eileen is a people person who enjoys getting involved in the community's many clubs and activities, including starting a group for retired nurses.

Jack McGirl

Eileen's husband, who also moved to Greenspring in 2023 and enjoys the community's active lifestyle alongside his wife.

Carol Opiela

The Community Resources Manager at Greenspring, who helped Eileen establish the Nurses Forever group.

Greenspring

An Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Virginia, that offers a range of amenities, activities, and services to support an active and engaged retirement lifestyle for its residents.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There's so much support to engage in activities that interest you, all while meeting new people and socializing.”

— Eileen McGirl (Patch.com)

“We don't have to maintain a house, mow a lawn, or wait for someone to fix things. We also don't have to shovel snow. Instead, we spend time on the activities we enjoy and socializing with our neighbors.”

— Eileen McGirl (Patch.com)

“Residents can fill their calendars with activities, spend time volunteering, or take a trip and know their home is safe and cared for. That peace of mind lets them truly enjoy this chapter of life.”

— Carol Opiela, Community Resources Manager (Patch.com)

The takeaway

Greenspring's model demonstrates how retirement communities can foster an active, socially engaged lifestyle for residents by offering a wide range of amenities, activities, and support services. This helps residents maintain their physical and mental well-being, while also giving their families peace of mind.