Asbury Methodist Village is a continuing care retirement community located in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Established in 1926, it is one of the largest not-for-profit retirement communities in the country, providing residents with a mix of independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing care. The community is well known for its beautiful 134-acre campus, which features a certified arboretum, walking trails, and a wildlife preserve. With a rich history, strong financial backing, and a welcoming atmosphere, Asbury offers seniors a secure, vibrant, and fulfilling lifestyle.
Asbury Methodist Village Retirement Community
Overview & Legacy
Asbury Methodist Village is one of the largest not-for-profit continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) in the U.S., first established in 1926 in Montgomery County, Maryland. A not-for-profit entity within Asbury Communities, a nationwide system serving around 4,300 seniors, it holds strong financial credentials and a mission-driven culture.
It earned EAGLE accreditation, affirming high standards across quality and financial viability. These recognitions ensure the community can sustainably support its residents now and in the future.
While rooted in Methodist tradition, the Village is open, inclusive, and welcoming to all backgrounds. In 2018, it became the first CCRC in Maryland to achieve SAGECare certification, affirming its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Stunning Campus & Natural Setting
Spanning approximately 134 acres, the campus is a certified arboretum and includes a 17-acre wildlife preserve—making it a serene, nature-rich oasis close to urban amenities.
Outdoor features:
- Walking trails through natural landscapes
- Dog park
- Woodworking and art studios, garden areas
- A 275-seat theater, campus TV studio, convenience services like a bank, gift shop, postal station—everything woven into its spacious, verdant layout
Diverse Living Options & Floor Plans
As a CCRC, residents can transition within the same community—from independent living to assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation—as needs evolve.
Independent Living
- Options include six apartment neighborhoods, brick villas, and Arts & Crafts–style courtyard homes.
- Rental tiers for adults 60+ include layouts named Dickinson, Haley (1-bedroom), Angelou, Twain, and Steinbeck (2-bedrooms).
- Edwards-Fisher Apartments feature renovations, private balconies and patios, walkable access to community hubs like the Arts & Wellness Center, shared social spaces, library with fireplace, and more.
Assisted Living
Offered through Kindley Assisted Living, this wing features private apartments, personalized support plans, 24-hour nursing coverage, daily meals, on-site fitness, wellness programs, and priority access to memory care and health services.
Memory Care & Skilled Nursing
- Memory care is available in a secure, dedicated unit with staff trained for cognitive care needs.
- Skilled nursing and rehabilitation services are also offered on campus, ensuring continuity of care.
On-site Health Services & Wellness
Health services are comprehensive and integrated:
- Holy Cross Health Partners provides on-site geriatric primary care with on-call coverage.
- Albright Pharmacy Services is conveniently located on campus.
- Care navigation assists residents with seamless transitions post-hospitalization and links them to various services.
Wellness and brain health are central:
- The Rosborough Wellness and Brain Health Center houses a staffed fitness center, rock-climbing wall, boxing studio, and indoor pool, with the Kinnections Brain Health program at its core.
- The community ranked among the top 10 senior wellness communities nationally in 2023.
Dining, Lifelong Learning & Community Life
Life here is rich with culture, connection, and convenience:
- Multiple dining venues are available—from fine dining to a bistro and café setup—with menu choices including brain-healthy and plant-based options.
- The Keese School of Continuing Education, run by residents, offers lifelong learning with lectures and classes.
- A 275-seat theater hosts performances and talks; a campus TV studio and dynamic clubs foster creativity and contentment.
- The Gaithersburg Beloved Community Initiative exemplifies intergenerational and advocacy-based engagement.
Residents frequently share heartfelt stories of the welcoming culture:
- “The day we moved in… some brought flowers, some brought wine and cheese… that’s just the kind of community it is.”
- “Moving here has made an amazing impact… physically I’m healthier and stronger… emotionally, having all the support… has made an amazing difference.”
Financial Structure & Accessibility
- Entry options include entrance fee plans, as well as rental arrangements for those 60 and older.
- Entrance fee plans cover independent through higher care tiers, simplified finances, and fee structures tailored to long-term care planning.
- Rentals require monthly rent plus a refundable deposit, with several floor plan options.
- Residents retain full control of their assets, and many find living costs simpler because services like maintenance are bundled into monthly fees.
Summary Snapshot
Asbury Methodist Village is a robust, inclusive, and beautifully maintained CCRC offering:
Feature | Description |
| ————————– | ——————————————————————————————- |
History & Governance | Founded 1926, not-for-profit, strong fiscal stewardship |
Location & Campus | 134 acres, arboretum, wildlife preserve, scenic & peaceful |
Living Options | Independent living, rentals, villas, assisted living, memory care, nursing, health services |
Wellness & Health Services | Geriatric care, pharmacy, fitness, brain health programs, rehab |
Culture & Learning | Lifelong learning, theater, clubs, intergenerational programs |
Dining & Amenities | Multiple dining venues, fitness, arts, social spaces, utilities included |
Financial Models | Flexible (entrance fee and rentals), inclusive services, asset control |
Recognition | National awards, wellness accolades, inclusive and highly rated |
In short, Asbury Methodist Village combines nature, culture, health care, financial strength, and a deeply rooted sense of community. Whether planning for today’s comfort or tomorrow’s needs, it offers a seamless continuum of services, in a place where residents actively shape a joyous, purposeful life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Asbury Methodist Village Retirement Community?
A. Asbury Methodist Village is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC). It offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. The community is designed to provide both comfort and long-term peace of mind, ensuring that residents can age in place without having to relocate as their needs change.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The campus spans more than 134 acres and includes several residential neighborhoods with hundreds of apartments, villas, and courtyard homes. There are six distinct apartment neighborhoods as well as townhome and cottage-style residences, giving residents a wide range of choices.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Residents can choose from a variety of living arrangements, including:
- Apartment homes in multiple floor plans, from one-bedroom to spacious two-bedroom layouts
- Villas and cottages designed with additional privacy and outdoor space
- Courtyard-style homes with an Arts and Crafts design
These options allow individuals and couples to select housing that best matches their lifestyle preferences and budget.
Q: What amenities are available?
Asbury offers a wide selection of amenities, including:
- Fitness and wellness centers with pools, exercise studios, and even a rock-climbing wall
- A 275-seat theater for performances, lectures, and entertainment
- A full-service bank, gift shop, salon, postal services, and convenience store on campus
- Woodworking shops, art studios, and a campus TV station
- Walking trails, gardens, and a dog park for outdoor enjoyment
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. The Keese School of Continuing Education is a resident-run program that provides lectures, classes, and workshops for lifelong learning. This unique feature fosters intellectual growth and social engagement, making education a central part of community life.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. Healthcare is available directly on campus, with Holy Cross Health Partners offering geriatric primary care. In addition, there is an on-site pharmacy, memory care, assisted living, and skilled nursing facilities. Being located in Montgomery County, residents also have access to a wide network of nearby hospitals and specialized medical providers.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. The community has multiple on-site dining venues, ranging from casual cafés and bistros to more formal dining rooms. Menus feature fresh, healthy, and diverse options. In addition, the surrounding Gaithersburg area offers shopping malls, grocery stores, restaurants, and other retail centers only minutes away.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Recreational opportunities are abundant both within the community and around the area. On-campus, residents enjoy fitness programs, swimming, group classes, arts and crafts, gardening, and theater events. Beyond the campus, residents can explore nearby parks, golf courses, cultural attractions in Washington, D.C., and local events in Montgomery County.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents can actively participate in community governance and enrichment through a variety of committees. These cover areas such as dining, landscaping, wellness, education, entertainment, and volunteer outreach. Committees provide residents with a voice in shaping community life and encourage engagement and leadership.
Conclusion
Asbury Methodist Village Retirement Community is more than just a place to live; it is a thriving, supportive, and inclusive environment designed to enrich the lives of seniors. With its wide range of living options, outstanding healthcare services, lifelong learning opportunities, and active community culture, it offers a balance of independence, security, and engagement. Residents not only enjoy peace of mind but also find opportunities for personal growth, friendships, and purpose in their later years.