08/21/2026
Thanks to Senator Obenshain and Delegates Wilt and Runion for attention to issues that affect older adults and senior living communities. It was an honor to join Bridgewater Retirement Community and Sunnyside Retirement Community as we strive to assure high quality wellness, healthspan, and healthcare options for seniors in the Shenandoah Valley.
Today, leaders from Sunnyside Communities, Bridgewater Retirement Community, and VMRC joined LeadingAge Virginia for an important afternoon of advocacy and conversation at Bridgewater Retirement Community.
The group welcomed Senator Mark Obenshain, Delegate Tony Wilt, and Delegate Chris Runion for a discussion focused on Continuing Care Retirement Communities, also known as Life Plan Communities, and the important role they play in serving older adults across the Commonwealth.
Dana Parsons, Vice President and Legislative Counsel, and Tracey Lewis, Policy and Advocacy Coordinator with LeadingAge Virginia, helped lead a conversation focused on educating legislators about the CCRC business model, how it differs from other senior housing models, and the unique benefits these communities provide to residents, families, team members, and the regions they serve.
Sunnyside Communities was grateful for the opportunity to be at the table alongside fellow senior living leaders and to engage directly with legislators about the opportunities and challenges facing aging services in Virginia.
Collaboration and advocacy are essential to ensuring the voices of older adults and the organizations that serve them are represented in conversations that shape the future of senior living.