How One Couple Found Community and Peace of Mind at Brandon Wilde
When Norm and Judy Diebold made the decision to leave the Augusta home they built in 1978 and raised four daughters in, they approached the change with the thoughtful, practical mindset you might expect from two lifelong engineers. What they found at Brandon Wilde is a community of connection, purpose, and ease that feels exactly right for this chapter of life.
After decades of maintaining a large home and fixing everything from leaky pipes to stubborn appliances, the couple decided it was time to let go of chores and the hassles that come with home ownership. “Lots of communities we looked at offered maintenance-free living, but we were impressed by Brandon Wilde’s true Life Care model, which no other retirement community in the Augusta area offers,” Norm noted. “Knowing we only have to move once and have access to every level of care gave us confidence and peace of mind.”
A Warm, Welcoming Community
One of the first things they appreciated was the ease of connection. “Everybody here is about our age,” he said. “You can say hi to anyone, make friends quickly, and feel like you belong.”
Whether greeting neighbors in the hallway, welcoming new residents at dinner, or joining impromptu gatherings after supper, friendships form easily and naturally.
“We’ve met so many interesting and friendly people,” he explains.
Finding New Purpose Through Music
Though he’s retired, Norm still enjoys having a strong sense of purpose, and he’s found a meaningful way to share his passion for music. “I’ve always loved singing, and twice a week I visit Brandon Wilde’s Memory Care and Skilled Nursing neighborhoods to lead hymn-singing sessions,” he said. “I had planned to just sing to them, but it quickly became a lively group experience. They sing along and we really enjoy each other’s company.”
This volunteer work has become one of the most rewarding parts of life in the community for him.
So Much to Do
Life at Brandon Wilde offers an impressive variety of activities and experiences that appeal to many different interests. Residents can enjoy instructor-led fitness classes, yoga, aquatic programs, creative workshops, nature walks, and an ever-changing schedule of cultural events. Social clubs, lifelong learning presentations, art classes, woodworking opportunities, volunteer programs, and musical performances add even more ways to stay inspired and connected.
The Diebolds enjoy being social and active, and Brandon Wilde gives them countless ways to stay engaged.
Games of Five Crowns has become a highlight in their schedule. “A few friends introduced the card game to us, and what started as small informal gatherings is now a twice-weekly activity on the official Brandon Wilde calendar, drawing anywhere from 7 to 20 players.”
The Diebolds also enjoy board games, evenings with neighbors, and casual get-togethers.
To stay active, Norm uses the pool, fitness center, and walking paths at his own pace, while Judy participates in water aerobics.
Sewing has been part of Judy’s life since childhood. At Brandon Wilde, she continues to use her skills to help others, often hemming or repairing clothing for fellow residents. Her husband finds joy in the workshop, which is fully equipped with woodworking tools and shared by other handy neighbors.
Dining That Brings People Together
Supper in the main dining room is a large part of the couple’s routine. “We join neighbors about half the time, and the rest of our meals are just for the two of us,” Norm said.
“The food is delicious — especially the prime rib. We love not needing to cook!”
Recently, one of their granddaughters has been joining them for dinner once a week on her own. “She’s a junior in high school, and we’ve really enjoyed spending that time with her one-on-one. It’s really special.”
The Right Choice
After a year and a half at Brandon Wilde, the Diebolds already feel fully at home. The friendships that come naturally, the ability to start new traditions, and the security of Life Care all reinforce that they made the right decision. Perhaps the most telling sign of approval came from their youngest daughter, who toured the community and joked, “Make me a reservation.”
Learn More About Brandon Wilde
If you’re curious about what life at Brandon Wilde could look like for you or a loved one, schedule a visit today.