Denny Ommert spent 35 years as a classroom teacher until he found a new opportunity managing a team that developed questions for Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science exams for high school students. He eventually went on to oversee all AP subjects.
“I became one of two people in the world responsible for all of the AP subjects,” Denny said. “I had an agreement with the company that when I flew somewhere, when they booked the seats for me, that they would also [book one] for my wife. I still had to pay for her [seat], but it was at the company rate. I’d do the job I was [there] to do, and then I’d take two or three vacation days, and she would show me what she found in the area while I was doing the work [on AP subjects].”
Moving Back Closer to Family
Denny and his wife created a lot of great memories traveling across the country while gaining a better understanding of many different U.S. destinations. Over the years, the couple spent time living in the Lancaster County area and on Anastasia Island south of St. Augustine, Florida, before moving back to Pennsylvania to be closer to their three children. After experiencing some health challenges, Denny and his wife decided it was time to look into senior living communities.
“I had been walking on the beach with [my dog] Barkley one day and mid-stride walking, [all of a sudden], I passed out,” Denny said. “[This] was a side effect of a health issue that I’ve had since I was born, but [that incident gave us the motivation] to move back closer to our children.”
Exploring Senior Living Options
Just like he did when managing teams developing AP courses and exams, Denny did his due diligence reviewing available options before committing to a senior living community. Denny and his wife began evaluating retirement communities around Pittsburgh with help from their oldest son, who lived in the area. Together they evaluated multiple senior living options nearby.
“At that point we chose Friendship Village of South Hills [in Upper St. Clair],” Denny said. “And we have had very, very positive experiences. The staff here is just outstanding. They put the independent living residence that we chose together to our specifications and gave us options.”
Denny cited Friendship Village of South Hills’ proximity to their son and other children as a key factor in influencing their decision to move there, alongside its continuing care support options.
“You don’t know what tomorrow will bring,” Denny said. “And so you have to be prepared and [Friendship Village of South Hills] offers that support, including access to health services.”
Continuing to Live an Independent Life
Denny said that while he and his wife have had some health challenges, the Friendship Village of South Hills team has built up a support team for them that, in his words, “is just superb.”
“Whatever it is you need, the [team at Friendship Village of South Hills] will find a way to make it happen for you,” Denny said. “My wife has had some unexpected health incidents since we’ve been here, and the community has always been there instantly to help. And as a result, we’re able to continue to be here and be independent and [live] a very positive lifestyle.”
Celebrate Each Day at Friendship Village of South Hills
Friendship Village of South Hills offers a welcoming environment, comprehensive services and amenities, and a variety of activities so you can spend each day exactly how you want. Like Denny, you too can make the most of every moment here, while also getting any support you might need.
Consider this your friendly invitation to interact with more residents like Denny, while learning how Friendship Village of South Hills can help you stay active and social.
Contact us to learn more about life at Friendship Village of South Hills.
