“We’re a big happy family.”
 ~ Karen, Covington resident

This is a story of two people in their 80s who found love together at The Covington, a vibrant community for active senior living in Aliso Viejo. It is a great example of the indelible connections our residents make with one another, and the lovely life it creates. 

Karen, a former nurse, family therapist, and religious educator, and her then-husband Tom moved into The Covington in 2017. Tom was a family physician who loved to play beach volleyball and travel the world, but his health and memory were in decline. 

Karen wanted a senior community that offered independent and assisted living in Orange County.  The Covington offered her and Tom everything they needed. “I heard about The Covington through friends. Everyone said it was the most fabulous place they had ever been – the care, the food; they couldn’t praise it enough. And they were right,”   Tom and Karen enjoyed their life together at The Covington but sadly, Tom passed away the following year. 

It was a difficult time for Karen, but she was grateful for the help and support she received from friends at The Covington who had or were going through a similar experience. “We all support one another, we all understand. And we’re all so thankful to be here.” 

Time passed and two years later, Jim, a former businessman and avid golfer, moved into The Covington. Because of her involvement in the resident’s association, Karen knew just about everyone in the community. So when she noticed the new face, she introduced herself. Turns out they had a lot of the same friends in common. 

Soon, Karen and Jim were attending exercise classes together and other social gatherings. Karen invited Jim to a few events at The Laguna Playhouse, of which Karen is a supporter. After one event, Jim and Karen went out to dinner and got to know each other better. When they returned to The Covington, Jim gave Karen a little kiss. The rest, they say, is history. 

Together, Karen and Jim have traveled all over the country, meeting one another’s families and college friends. They are a fixture at The Covington gatherings, frequently attend off-site events around Orange County – and they still go to exercise classes together.

A vibrant lifestyle

One of the things that drew Karen to The Covington was the vibrant lifestyle which comes from  our approach to lifelong learning, called Creative Living. Karen says she enjoys programs and amenities that help her stay creative, physically active, and socially engaged. “You can live life to the fullest here,” Karen says. With an art studio, games room, indoor pool, a concert venue, fitness classes, a community garden, walking trails throughout the 12-acre campus, and more, there is so much to do. 

What’s more, complimentary transportation means residents can get out and about whenever they want. “A group of us like to go to the theater on Saturday afternoons,” Karen says. “The limo bus drops us off right in front and picks us up as soon as the event is over.” 

Dining is a world-class experience at The Covington, featuring meticulously planned menus and impeccable service. Residents have three award-winning dining areas to choose from – The Grandview gourmet restaurant, The Cove bistro, or the Grandview Lounge.

It is all about connection

“Living here is like being in a luxury hotel or the highest-end cruise ship you can imagine,” Karen says. She also believes that The Covington is truly a place of friendships. “People come from all over the world to live here, from all sorts of fascinating backgrounds.” 

Karen and Jim’s story is a great example of the mini renaissance so many seniors experience when they move into a Life Plan community like The Covington. Here, older adults have the support, services, and amenities they need so they can continue to enjoy all that life has to offer. Whether bonds are made through a shared hobby, through a support group, or even a romantic relationship like Karen and Jim’s, meaningful connections abound at The Covington. “People love one another here, like we’re a big happy family,” Karen says.

About us

Founded on four commitments – choice, creativity, confidence, and connection – ECS provides relaxed, maintenance-free, resort-style living in beautiful, continuing care, retirement community settings in Southern California.

Celebrating 100 years of exceptional services for seniors. Proudly nonprofit. Contact us today to learn more.