Happy Residents Tell Our Story Best, Life at Sequoia Living

At Sequoia Living, residents are the heart of our story. Their experiences reveal what makes each of our  Life Plan Communities in the Bay Area an environment where people can connect, learn, and grow. From forming deep friendships to pursuing lifelong passions, these stories show that life doesn’t slow down in retirement; it gets better.

For Judy Gries, moving to a Sequoia Living community in Marin County was a chance to Never Stop Growing. After years of maintaining a large home, she found new energy in community living, where days are filled with friendships and meaningful activities.

She joined committees, helped organize dinners, and found fulfillment in bringing joy to others. “It’s invigorating, exhilarating, and stimulating,” said Judy. Recently, she was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year in her community. 

Judy also loves the simplicity of her new lifestyle, no longer having to worry about driving.  “We have a shuttle that will do that. It’s wonderful because even in the rain, you have door-to-door service. It’s perfect!”

For her, community living is about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. “Awakening Wisdom,” a discussion group she attends, helps her slow down, reflect, and grow spiritually.

Her advice to newcomers? “Less is better—don’t crowd too much.”

At Sequoia Living, Judy discovered that simplicity leads to more of what matters: purpose, connection, and joy.

For David Dissmeyer, freedom took on a new meaning when he moved into The Sequoias San Francisco in 2017. After a lifetime as a homeowner and roofing contractor, he grew tired of constant repairs and solitude.

“When I moved in, the not-so-obvious part to me was ‘community,’” said David. “The Sequoias is not just a place to live—it’s a place to meet people, exchange ideas, and form friendships.”

Now, David enjoys maintenance-free living, weekly housekeeping, and restaurant-quality dining—all in one of the happiest cities in America. “It’s like having a restaurant in your home,” he laughs.

Beyond convenience, David found reassurance for his family. “I learned that I’m taken care of for the rest of my life, and I won’t be a burden to my daughter.”

For David, moving to a Life Plan Community wasn’t just practical—it was freeing.

Author and resident Helen Bigelow calls The Sequoias Portola Valley “a University of Courage.”

“Every day, I see courage—people developing grace through the challenges of aging,” Helen writes. She credits her time on community committees for deep friendships and a sense of purpose. Helen recently published her first children’s book at 92.

Moving to The Sequoias, she says, was also the best gift she could give her daughters. “I relieved their concerns and gave them a window into community life. They like what they see.”

Now in her 90s, Helen says, “I never dreamed I’d have as much fun and as many enriching experiences as I do living here.”

Photographer Craig Mole moved to The Sequoias San Francisco in 2022 and found that community living lets him keep creating.

“I came in early at 74. Why wait until 80?” Craig said. “I get to have my own life and do my photography.”

When he first toured the community, he knew it was right. “I had never made a decision so quickly in my life.”

For Craig, the transition brought peace of mind. Right after moving in, he quickly learned what it means to have a support system in place. While ill, medicine and meals were brought to his apartment. “Once I recovered, I made so many new friends,” he fondly recalls. “Three meals a day and all the activities—it’s a pretty good deal!”

Now, Craig continues to capture life’s beauty, surrounded by others who share his zest for living.

 

 

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At Sequoia Living, our residents inspire us every day. Their stories remind us that the next chapter can be the most rewarding one yet.

Schedule your visit today and discover a Life Plan Community in the Bay Area where you’ll Never Stop Growing.