A 78-year-old newlywed, Martha
Moore Wooldridge recently celebrated her second wedding anniversary.

A native of Pennsylvania, Martha attended college in Vermont before marrying and moving to the Philadelphia suburbs. An English major, Martha worked at several nearby college libraries before leaving work to raise her two children.When her children were older, Martha returned to the workforce and discovered a passion for desktop publishing. “I was working at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, and I learned desktop publishing, and I really loved the computer; I love what the computer can do,” recalled Martha.

Martha’s passion for computers continued after retirement, and she found a new outlet for it when she moved to Ginger Cove. She is now editor-in-chief of the residents’ monthly newsletter. In addition to editing and laying out the articles submitted by her fellow residents, Martha also contributes original articles about her peers. “The people here are just really interesting, so I try to interview them and share their stories,” she said.

One of the many interesting stories at Ginger Cove belongs to Martha herself. A second-generation CCRC resident, she knew early that she wanted to plan ahead for retirement. Martha’s mother was living in a CCRC in Western Pennsylvania when she suffered a stroke. “We were 300 miles away and so relieved that we didn’t have to find nursing care when she got sick because the health center was part of her community. We decided then that we would move to a CCRC too,” Martha remembered.

Martha may have decided to move to a retirement community early, but she found her ideal community quite unexpectedly. “We looked at lots of communities around Philadelphia,” Martha said. “They were O.K., but none of them seemed exactly right.”

Martha and her husband Ken were visiting a nearby family cottage when they decided on a whim to check out Ginger Cove. Martha recalled, “They invited us to visit. It didn’t matter that we only had shorts to wear.” After their initial visit, they returned to the community for dinner and quickly decided they had found their new home.

Shortly thereafter, Martha and Ken made the move to a spacious apartment at Ginger Cove overlooking pretty Gingerville Creek. Unfortunately, they were just beginning to settle in when tragedy struck. “Six weeks after we moved in, my husband died,” Martha recalled. “We knew he was sick, but we thought it was going to work out, but it just didn’t.”

In addition to writing and outdoor activities, Martha’s busy
schedule also includes water aerobics.

After Ken’s sudden passing, Martha found support in her new community. “Even though I didn‘t really know anybody here, they all rallied around, and I got to know so many people so quickly,” she said. With the help of her new friends at Ginger Cove and at the nearby First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis, Martha began to heal. “I cannot imagine what it would have been like if I had been alone in that big house. It would have been so lonely,” she said.

Just over a year later, Martha and her family suffered another tragedy when she lost her daughter. “Again, these two new families — my Ginger Cove family and my church family — were there for me,” Martha remembered. “I didn’t have to be alone with my grief, so that part was wonderful.”

One of the friends who offered support to Martha was Tim Wooldridge. Much like Martha, Tim lost his wife just a few months after moving to Ginger Cove. The two became friends, and a relationship grew out of their friendship. “I don’t know quite how it happened,” Martha smiled as she recalled. “It just sort of evolved very naturally.”

On March 24, 2012, Martha and Tim were married. Their reception was held at Ginger Cove and was truly a community affair. To celebrate their first milestone as a couple, Martha and Tim had the help of many of the community’s residents and staff. Martha laughs as she recalls all the friends who wanted to be her ‘flower girls.’ “In the end I had four ‘flower girls,’ and it was really hysterical, but I gave them all little duties and called them ‘flower girls,’” she said.Beyond the major milestones, moving to Ginger Cove has dramatically improved Martha’s everyday life. “They take such good care of us here, and I think that lengthens our lives,” she said. “I also think all the socialization this community provides helps us live longer and better.”

From carefree entertaining to the 35 resident committees and countless activities, Martha and her peers can always find something stimulating to do. Martha’s busy schedule includes water aerobics, kayaking on the nearby creek, and participating in the creative writing group, as well as her work on the community’s newsletter.

In addition to all her regular activities, Martha is also thrilled to be serving on the Planning Committee for Ginger Cove’s 25th anniversary celebration in August 2013. The group is already busy coordinating an old-fashioned picnic complete with a parade. “It will be a fun day, and a great chance to celebrate this wonderful community,” she said.

Martha is preparing to help Ginger Cove celebrate its 25th
anniversary in August. She is a part of the Planning Committee that is coordinating an old-fashioned picnic complete with a parade.

During the past 25 years, Ginger Cove has continually expanded and improved its facilities to serve its diverse and active group of residents. Most recently, the community completed a major renovation and construction project, which added a casual dining room with an outdoor deck, a large indoor aquatics center, a Wellness Center, a spa and a business center. The project also included total renovation of the 61-bed skilled nursing and rehab center to include all-private rooms, airy family rooms and a beautiful 5,000 square foot open-air garden.

Whether you are celebrating a second anniversary or a 25th anniversary, the occasion provides an opportunity to think back and to look forward — to appreciate where you have been and anticipate where you are going. As the residents of Ginger Cove plan for the community’s upcoming anniversary, they are grateful to have found a home that is adapting to meet their needs while maintaining its dedication to quality care and strong connections. Those connections are perhaps best exemplified by newlyweds Martha and Tim Wooldridge, who both suffered great losses, but who, with the help of their friends and neighbors, are making new memories and marking new milestones.

The Renaissance Institute of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland – The 15 year old Renaissance Institute is the College’s Lifelong Learning program, where men and women 50 and older participate in educational, social, and personal growth activities. The program members represent the community’s diversity in gender, race, age, and religious beliefs. The youngest students are in their 50′s and the oldest learners are in their 90′s. In addition to classes, the Institute provides opportunities for travel, luncheons, and potluck dinners with new friends, as well as special activities during the winter and summer breaks.

Renaissance has fall and spring semesters, both thirteen weeks in length. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays on the campus of the College. Classes are six, seven, or thirteen weeks in duration. Membership fees are $310 per year and include as many classes as a member wishes to take. Another benefit of the program at CND is that members can also audit one CND college course per year. There are 325 members of the Institute and each brings unique and interesting skills and experiences, which help the Institute continue to grow.

The curriculum always includes classes in writing, history, philosophy, and religion, as well as courses in the arts and fitness. The fall 2005 schedule includes the following offerings: Writer’s Workshop; The History of Science – Babylonians Through Newton; Happiness and Discontent; Baltimore Neighborhoods; Behind the Footlights; and Learn to Read Hebrew. Director Vera Abrams Newton, President Jim Hendry, and the curriculum committee assure that classes respond to members’ desires and growing interests.

Members of Renaissance, professors from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, and experts from the community are instructors for the courses offered. Renaissance also has partnerships with the Baltimore Museum of Industry and The Peabody Institute of JHU, which provides staff to teach about their respective areas of expertise.

If you are interested in joining the Renaissance Institute, please call Vera Abrams Newton at 410-532-5351. To see a complete list of course offerings go to www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Learning in Retirement of Towson University –The Auburn Society offers opportunities for continued learning and activities for social and cultural enrichment – all within a congenial atmosphere. There are fall and spring classes, four to eight weeks in length, and a summer program. A sample of the fall 2005 program includes: Intelligence and National Security; War of 1812; Beethoven: His Symphonies and Their Interpreters; Modern Polish Poetry. Day trips and social events are also available. Classes meet in easily accessible, modern classrooms on the Towson University campus. There are 2 sessions: September 12- October 7; October 17 – November 11. Speakers are available for presentations about the Society. Find out more by calling the Auburn office, 410-704-3437, or visit their website at www.new.towson.edu/outreach/auburn/.

A part of The Johns Hopkins University, the Evergreen Society’s mission is to enhance the leisure time of semi-retired and retired individuals by providing stimulating learning experiences and the opportunity for new friendships. Classes are offered in North Baltimore, Columbia, and Montgomery County. The fall schedule includes Ethics; Top Hats and Striped Pants II; Great Expectations: Victoria and the Victorians; “Reading” Greek and Roman Art; and Fiction Writing. View the schedule and membership information at www.evergreen.jhu.edu/pdfs/ScheduleBaltColumbia.pdf, or call 410-309-9531.

Peabody Institute Elderhostel- Elderhostel celebrates over 30 years of educational excellence. By joining other members you can see the world! Part of that world is celebrated at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. Offerings for fall include Dancing for the Camera, Great Comedy Classics, Backstage at the Peabody Opera, and the Peabody Experience. For more information, call 410-659-8100, ext. 3085, or check out the website at www.peabody.jhu.edu/index.php?pageID=540.

Renaissance Institute at College of Notre Dame of Maryland – Members of this institute design and lead the non-credit courses offered at CND. Fall offerings include Orchids on the Windowsill, Poe’s Tales of Mystery and Imagination, Art & Archeology of Egypt, Ballet/Jazz, Advanced Oil Painting, Italian for Travelers, and Haiku. Courses to keep you physically fit include water aerobics and T’aiChi. Contact 410-532-5351, or log on to www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Many of the local Senior Centers offer classes provided through the Baltimore City Community College, the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education, community hospital outreach programs, and the senior centers themselves.

A sampling of what’s available:

Myerberg Senior Center in Pikesville offers fitness through aerobics, body toning, yoga classes as well as a walking group. Literary arts include conversational Hebrew and Spanish, poetry, and creative writing. Watercolor, oil painting, decoupage, sculpture, and drawing classes are among the cultural programs available. Practical learning such as computer skills round out the fall offerings. For additional information, contact the center at 410-358-6856 or surf the web at www.myerbergseniorcenter.org/classes.html.

The Senior Institute at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)- Classes are offered at several senior centers in Baltimore County as well as at the 3 CCBC campuses. Classes cover Bible studies, history, contemporary issues, and computer literacy, as well as arts programs. Call 410-869-0296 for more information, or visit “Classes for Seniors” on the College’s Website at www.ccbcmd.edu/ceed.

McFaul Senior Center in Bel Air offers summer fine art classes in painting (all levels of experience), ceramics, or tole painting. A book discussion group meets monthly, while current event discussions are held weekly. In addition, there are fitness, yoga, and TaiChi classes for those interested in improving their fitness. For the nimble-fingered, classes in woodworking and various needlework crafts are offered. Contact the Center at 410-638-4040, or surf the web at: www.co.ha.md.us/services/aging/Events.cfm.

Washington College in Chestertown – Academy of Lifelong Learning is marked by the characteristics of “intellectual curiosity, camaraderie of scholars and learners, and the wisdom of age and experience.” Fall class offerings include Peace Building, The Magic of Opera, Everyday Life in Middle Ages, and More Stars than There are in Heaven -MGM Golden Age-just to name a few. Check the website for details: www.wc-all.washcoll.edu/, or call the office: 410-778-7221.

Chesapeake College Institute for Adult Learning (A.I.L.)- This Institute was established in 2001 and offers a wide variety of learning opportunities on the campus of Chesapeake College. As of this writing, the schedule of fall classes was not available. Contact 410-822-5400 for more information, or take a look at the College’s website, www.chesapeake.edu/continuing_ed/ial/.

Diane E. Schaefer, MA, is president of Schaefer + Associates, LLC, a Baltimore-based Geriatric Consulting and Care Management firm; a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers; and a Certified Senior Advisor.

Many universities, colleges, community colleges, and senior centers offer classes and programs focused on older adults pursuing learning in a creative and supportive environment. Whether you want to learn a foreign language, study history as it unfolds before you, or tap into your creative juices – opportunities abound!

Washington College in Chestertown – Academy of Lifelong Learning is marked by the characteristics of “intellectual curiosity, camaraderie of scholars and learners, and the wisdom of age and experience.” Spring class offerings include Sustainable Community Development, International Competitors from a political, economic and historical perspective, and Near Death Experiences – to name a few. Check the website for details: http://wc-all.washcoll.edu or call the office 410-778-7221.

Chesapeake College Institute for Adult Learning (A.I.L.)–This Institute was established in 2001 and offers a wide variety of learning opportunities on the campus of Chesapeake College. In the April-May semester you can learn more about the relationship between A. Lincoln and G. McClellan, Residential Architecture, Islam, or our own Constitution. Improve your fitness through TaiChi, study the differences between Wines of the World, or learn German to ease your next vacation. Contact 410-822-5400 for more information or take a look at the College’s website, www.chesapeake.edu

A part of The Johns Hopkins University, the Evergreen Society’s mission is to enhance the leisure time of semi-retired and retired individuals by providing stimulating learning experiences and the opportunity for new friendships. Classes are offered in North Baltimore, Columbia and Montgomery County. The Spring schedule includes Hubble’s New Universe, American Movers and Shakers, International Relations, and Shakespeare. View the schedule and membership information at http://evergreen.jhu.edu/pdfs/schedulebaltcolumbia.pdf or call 410-309-9531.

Many of the local Senior Centers offer classes provided through the Baltimore City Community College, the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education, community hospital outreach programs, and the senior centers themselves.

A sampling of what’s available:

- Myerberg Senior Center in Pikesville offers fitness through aerobics, body toning, and yoga classes, as well as a walking group. Literary arts include conversational Hebrew and Spanish, poetry, and creative writing. Watercolor, oil painting, decoupage, sculpture, and drawing classes are among the cultural programs available. Practical learning classes, such as computer skills, round out the Spring offerings. For additional information contact the center at 410-358-6856, or surf the web at http://www.myerbergseniorcenter.org/classes.html

- At McFaul Senior Center in Bel Air participate in fine arts classes in painting (all levels of experience), ceramics, or tole painting. A book discussion group meets monthly, while current event discussions are held weekly. In addition there are dance, fitness, yoga, and TaiChi classes for those interested in improving their fitness. For the nimble-fingered, classes in woodworking and various needlework crafts are offered.Contact the Center at 410-638-4040, or surf the web at: http://www.co.ha.md.us/services/aging/Events.cfm

Learning in Retirement of Towson University –The Auburn Society offers opportunities for continued learning and activities for social and cultural enrichment – all within a congenial atmosphere. There are fall and spring classes, four to eight weeks in length, and a summer program. A sample of the spring 2005 program includes: Supreme Court and Civil Liberties, European Union, Hitchcock and Hermann music, Mary Cassatt, Intro to Watercolor, Little Gems in the Film Industry, and An Atmosphere of Mystery. Day trips and social events are also available. Classes meet in easily accessible, modern classrooms on the Towson University campus. There are 2 sessions: March 7- April 1 and April 11 – May 6. Speakers are available for presentations about the Society. Find out more by calling the Auburn office, 410-704-3437, or visit their web sit at http://wwwnew.towson.edu/outreach/auburn/.

The Senior Institute at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)–Classes are offered at several senior centers in Baltimore County as well as at the 3 CCBC campuses. Topics cover literature, history, wellness, and computer literacy, as well as arts programs. Call 410-869-0296 for more information, or visit the College’s Website at http://www.ccbcmd.edu/noncredit/fall/senior.html.

Peabody Institute Elderhostel–Elderhostel celebrates 30 years of educational excellence. By joining other members, you can see the world! Part of that world is celebrated at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. Offerings for Spring include Classics with the Baltimore Symphony; music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, and Brahms; and Hollywood. For more information, call 410-659-8100, ext. 3085 or check out the website at http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/index.php?pageID=540 .

Renaissance Institute at College of Notre Dame of Maryland –Members of this institute design and lead the non-credit courses offered at CND. Spring offerings include Planning for Prime Time, Game of Politics, oil painting, Jazz, a survey of Persons of Letters, Art and Architecture of Egypt, and Morocco. Courses to keep you physically fit include water aerobics and TaiChi. Contact them at 410-532-5351 or on the web at http://www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Diane E. Schaefer, MA, Certified Senior Advisor,is president of Schaefer + Associates, LLC, a Baltimore-based Geriatric Consulting and Care Management firm.