Fox Hill Village Retirement Community, located in Westwood, Massachusetts, is one of the most respected continuing care retirement communities in New England. Established in 1989, it is unique for being resident-owned and resident-governed, which allows individuals to play an active role in shaping their community. Spread across 100 acres of wooded land, Fox Hill Village blends peaceful surroundings with close proximity to Boston’s cultural and medical resources. It offers apartment-style living, extensive amenities, health services, cultural enrichment, and a strong sense of community for older adults who want to enjoy both independence and security.
Fox Hill Village Retirement Community
History and Philosophy
Fox Hill Village was established by a visionary group of local professionals and residents who wanted to create a retirement community where people could live independently while knowing they had access to care if and when they needed it. Unlike many retirement facilities that are corporate-owned, Fox Hill Village is uniquely resident-governed. This structure empowers residents to actively shape the policies, programs, and culture of their community.
The philosophy at Fox Hill Village centers on autonomy, dignity, and lifelong engagement. Residents enjoy the freedom to live as they choose while benefiting from a strong support network. There is an emphasis on intellectual stimulation, wellness, and social connection. The idea is not simply to age gracefully, but to thrive during retirement years by continuing to pursue passions, develop new skills, and foster meaningful friendships.
Location and Surroundings
Fox Hill Village is situated on 100 acres of rolling hills and woodlands in Westwood, Massachusetts. Its setting offers a serene environment filled with walking trails, landscaped gardens, and scenic views. Despite its tranquil surroundings, the community is conveniently located near Interstate 95, Route 128, and Boston’s cultural and medical institutions.
This combination of natural beauty and urban proximity is a major draw for residents. They can enjoy peaceful walks on the grounds, take part in gardening, or relax outdoors, while also accessing world-class hospitals, theaters, museums, and universities within a short drive. For many, this balance of nature and culture enhances their overall retirement experience.
Residential Living Options
Fox Hill Village offers a wide range of residences to suit different lifestyles and preferences. The community consists of 340 apartment-style homes, available in various layouts and sizes, ranging from cozy one-bedroom apartments to spacious two-bedroom homes with dens.
Each residence is designed for comfort and practicality, with modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and living spaces that can be customized by residents. Many apartments feature private balconies or patios with scenic views of the grounds. The community places emphasis on creating a home-like atmosphere rather than an institutional setting.
Residents also benefit from weekly housekeeping, maintenance services, and 24-hour security. This allows them to focus on enjoying life rather than worrying about chores, upkeep, or safety concerns.
Dining Experience
One of the highlights of life at Fox Hill Village is its dining program. The community features multiple dining venues, ranging from formal restaurants to casual cafés and lounges. Professional chefs prepare meals that emphasize fresh ingredients, variety, and nutritional balance.
Menus are frequently updated and include a wide selection of cuisines, from traditional New England fare to international dishes. Dietary needs and preferences are accommodated, ensuring residents can enjoy meals that suit their health requirements and personal tastes. Dining is also an important social activity, with many residents gathering daily to share meals, connect, and build friendships.
Wellness and Health Services
Fox Hill Village is a continuing care retirement community, which means residents can access different levels of healthcare as their needs evolve. This continuity of care provides peace of mind to both residents and their families.
The on-site wellness center provides preventive care, fitness programs, and health education. Residents can receive support from visiting physicians, nurses, and therapists. The community emphasizes proactive health management, encouraging residents to maintain an active lifestyle.
For those who need additional care, Fox Hill Village partners with nearby skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities. Residents are guaranteed priority access to long-term care services if required. This model ensures that no matter what changes occur in a person’s health, they will always be supported within the Fox Hill Village system.
Fitness and Recreation
Staying active is a central part of the lifestyle at Fox Hill Village. The community offers an indoor fitness center, complete with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, personal training, and group fitness classes. Residents can participate in yoga, tai chi, strength training, and water aerobics.
Outdoor activities are also abundant, with walking paths, gardening areas, and organized sports like bocce and pickleball. The natural surroundings encourage residents to spend time outside, breathing fresh air and staying mobile.
Safety and Security
Safety is a top priority at Fox Hill Village. The community offers 24/7 security and an emergency response system in every residence. Staff members are trained to provide assistance quickly in case of medical or safety concerns. The design of the community itself promotes safety, with well-lit walkways, accessible building entrances, and thoughtful layouts that reduce hazards.
This reassurance allows residents and their families to enjoy peace of mind, knowing that help is always available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is The Fox Hill Village Retirement Community?
A. Fox Hill Village is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) designed to provide older adults with independent living options along with access to healthcare as needs change. It emphasizes autonomy, social connection, and lifelong learning, all within a supportive and engaging environment.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community features 340 apartment-style residences spread throughout its well-designed campus.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Fox Hill Village offers one-bedroom, one-bedroom with den, two-bedroom, and two-bedroom with den apartments. Many homes include private balconies or patios, modern kitchens, and comfortable living areas. Residences can be customized to reflect individual preferences.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Residents enjoy housekeeping and maintenance services, 24-hour security, on-site dining venues with chef-prepared meals, a wellness and fitness center, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, cultural programs, art studios, music rooms, and community events. Walking trails, gardens, and lounges add to the lifestyle.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. Fox Hill Village partners with local universities and cultural institutions to provide lectures, workshops, and lifelong learning programs. Residents participate in book clubs, discussion groups, and classes on a variety of subjects ranging from literature to technology.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. Fox Hill Village is close to world-class medical institutions in Boston, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The community also has on-site wellness services and priority access to skilled nursing and rehabilitation partners.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. On campus, residents can enjoy multiple dining venues that serve fresh, varied menus. Beyond the community, Westwood and nearby towns offer shopping centers, restaurants, and cafés. Boston’s rich dining scene is also just a short drive away.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Residents can enjoy walking trails, gardening, bocce, pickleball, yoga, tai chi, and fitness classes on campus. Nearby, there are golf courses, parks, theaters, museums, and cultural attractions. Seasonal outings into Boston provide access to concerts, symphonies, and exhibitions.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Fox Hill Village is governed by its residents, and many participate in committees that oversee dining, activities, cultural programs, finance, and community governance. This model fosters engagement, empowerment, and a strong sense of belonging.
Conclusion
Fox Hill Village Retirement Community offers a lifestyle that combines independence, wellness, and cultural enrichment with the security of lifelong care. With its resident-governed structure, scenic location, access to world-class medical facilities, and vibrant social calendar, it provides an ideal environment for older adults who want to thrive during retirement.