The Avenues Crofton Park resident Damaris with her two Corgis, Mazzie and Boom Shakalaka Boom.
Moving from a home filled with generations of history is never easy—even when you know it’s time for a change.
For Damaris, a clinical psychologist and online instructor, the decision to leave her family’s Colorado ranch came after years of calling the Rocky Mountains home. Her family first arrived in Colorado in 1862, and over seven generations, they put down deep roots in the Centennial State—even operating a brewery in Broomfield decades ago.
But as Damaris grew older, living at high altitude brought health challenges and increasing physical isolation. She had lost her husband, a physician she was married to for 51 years, about six years earlier, and her nearest neighbor lived a football field away. Managing a large mountain property on her own was no longer serving her.
At the end of 2025, Damaris decided it was time for a change. She moved 4,000 feet lower in elevation to The Avenues Crofton Park, an award-winning senior boutique living community in Broomfield, Colorado. Trading mountain solitude for an active 55+ community transformed her lifestyle.
The Anxiety of a Major Move
Like many seniors considering a move to a retirement community, Damaris felt anxious at first. Leaving behind a sprawling mountain ranch, downsizing her belongings and transitioning to a new environment was overwhelming.
She also worried about her two canine companions, Mazzie and Boom Shakalaka Boom. She wasn’t sure how her two active mountain dogs would take to apartment living.
As it turned out, the Corgis adjusted just fine—and so did Damaris. They quickly became familiar faces around the community, greeting residents and staff and enjoying their new surroundings.
The Benefits of Community Living
Damaris’s move to The Avenues brought more than a change in scenery. Living at a lower elevation with more oxygen gave her an immediate boost in energy and made daily life more comfortable. She also gained the peace of mind that comes with leaving behind the responsibilities of home ownership and a large mountain property.
There’s no more shoveling snow, worrying about upkeep, or navigating outdoor safety on her own. The Avenues’ underground, climate-controlled parking garage keeps her car protected from Colorado’s unpredictable weather, while packages are safely held at the concierge desk.
With maintenance off her plate, Damaris has more momentum to focus on the things she enjoys. Most mornings begin with a walk along the nearby Metzger Farm Open Space trails, where Mazzie and Boom Shakalaka Boom have become neighborhood favorites.
The intimate size of The Avenues has been another important benefit for Damaris. The boutique setting gave her an immediate sense of community without feeling as overwhelming or impersonal as some “behemoth” corporate communities. With local ownership, on-site concierge services and a welcoming atmosphere, it was easy for her to get to know her neighbors and quickly feel at home.
Damaris has also maintained an active routine, enjoying morning walks, teaching international online classes, and balancing a full social calendar. As a psychologist who teaches Psychosynthesis, which she describes as “Psychology with a Soul,” Damaris thrives on deep conversation. She regularly meets neighbors who have lived fascinating lives, creating opportunities for residents to consciously mentor and inspire one another.
From Isolation to a Caring Neighborhood
People move to senior living communities for countless reasons—retirement, health needs, isolation or major life changes. For Damaris, the biggest reward was rediscovering the power of human connection.
Instead of quiet solitude, Damaris has found a vibrant neighborhood of active adults who truly look out for one another. That sense of connection may be the greatest benefit of all. She now has people around her who know her and look out for her.
“The Avenues always has surprises for me. I think life has delivered me to this place at this time for a good and beautiful reason.”
Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?
Damaris’s story is a reminder that downsizing isn’t about giving up independence—it’s about upsizing your lifestyle and opening the door to safety, connection and everyday joy.
Whether you’re looking to escape high-altitude weather, eliminate the hassle of snow shoveling, or find a pet-friendly community, The Avenues Crofton Park offers the perfect place to call home.
Explore Life at The Avenues
Call 720-740-8530 to speak with our leasing team or schedule your visit online. We’re always looking for new residents to be part of our senior boutique living community’s story.