by Heidi Harrison | Sep 23, 2025 | News, Spotlight Fox Hill VIllage, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
Since its founding in 1990, Fox Hill Village has been home to a broad range of interesting and engaging individuals. Today, our community boasts more than 20 second-generation residents — those whose parents previously lived here and who ultimately chose Fox Hill for themselves. Now, residents are sharing the stories of how their parents came to live at Fox Hill, what they enjoyed, how the community has changed, and what led these second-generation residents to make the same choice.
Current resident Martha Bisbee is one example. Martha shared: “My mother, Harriet Hodgdon, chose Fox Hill Village even before it was constructed. My aunt followed her here shortly after. Mom enjoyed exploring the local area and participating on several committees.
“When my husband, Tom, and I started looking at communities, location was important to us. Fox Hill was on our list because I knew how much my mother loved her time here.
“Now we, too, enjoy the friendliness of the residents. The community has a familiar feel to us, but it has also changed a lot over the years. We appreciate that it is less formal now — suits and ties are no longer required for dinner — and so many wonderful new amenities have been added.”
by Heidi Harrison | Jul 29, 2025 | News, Spotlight Fox Hill VIllage, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
Imagine a place where retirement isn’t just a destination, but a vibrant new chapter. Nestled in Westwood, Massachusetts, Fox Hill Village transcends the typical retirement community and is a tribute to the spirit of its residents— a haven where families can find comfort, stimulation, and community. One such family is the Fishers, whose connection with Fox Hill spans decades.
Dr. Alexander Fisher and his wife, Yetta, first moved to Westwood as newlyweds in 1936. A family doctor who made house calls, he served as the town’s physician. Having spent their entire married life in the town which they loved, when it came time to retire, they couldn’t bear the thought of living anywhere else.
Their daughter Judy says, “My father was partly responsible for getting Fox Hill created here.” He was particularly pleased that Mass. General Hospital was going to be involved with health care at the project. He wrote a persuasive letter to the town’s board of selectmen and advocated for the project at a crucial town meeting. His dedication, coupled with the support of his patients who voted in favor, helped turn the vision of Fox Hill into reality. Once it was built, Mrs. Fisher also left her mark, doing historical research and assisting with the naming the wings of the building after prominent families from Westwood and Dedham.
The Fishers were among the very first to sign up to live at Fox Hill and had their choice of apartments. Choosing their Ellis apartment was a joy, particularly for its view of the deep green woods. The Fishers enjoyed the varied dining possibilities and the intellectually engaging activities, as well as appreciating the proximity to Mass General and to their daughter, who lived nearby. And, as Dr. Fisher said, if anything happened to him so that he needed a higher level of care, he wanted Mrs. Fisher to be able to visit him easily.
When the time came that Judy wanted to find a retirement community for herself, she embarked on a search of her own, visiting several other establishments in the area. She chose Fox Hill, not only because of her parents’ great experience here, but also because of its unique welcoming atmosphere and the intellectual stimulation offered by its varied and highly educated population.
Since moving to Fox Hill in 2018, Judy has found her niche volunteering in the library. Her passion for literature comes alive as she recommends books, helps keep things organized, and engages with fellow bibliophiles. For her, Fox Hill is more than a retirement community.
by Heidi Harrison | Jul 16, 2025 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
Barbara and Sam Hayes began envisioning life in a continuing care retirement community while still in their 50s. But not everyone in their family was as open to the idea. At age 93 and widowed for 15 years, Barbara’s mother, Emma Lloyd, was still managing independently in her Westerly, Rhode Island home. But with two of Barbara’s siblings living out of state, support for Mrs. Lloyd fell largely to Barbara and Sam. The 1.5-hour drive from their home in Westwood, Massachusetts, to her home in Westerly didn’t make life any easier.
On the day Barbara planned to talk to her mother about moving closer to Westwood, Mrs. Lloyd revealed her own plans for a dining room makeover. Surprised but undaunted, Barbara broached the idea of her mother relocating to Westwood. While hesitant at first, the realization that her independence wouldn’t diminish and that she’d be supported by a more connected family life ultimately eased Mrs. Lloyd’s concerns.
After touring several communities, Mrs. Lloyd decided Fox Hill Village was the best fit. She quickly created a whole new life, enjoying bridge games and elegant dinners with new friends who became a supportive network. She was well-known for making bran muffins for new residents, and thrived at Fox Hill with a sense of engagement and connection, ultimately reaching the age of 105.
Having seen Mrs. Lloyd flourish at Fox Hill, Barbara and Sam decided to follow her lead years before they actually moved in. They had seen firsthand the fruitful and engaged life Barbara’s mother had and wanted the same for their later years. “The people here are fascinating, interesting and gracious — both residents and staff,” says Barbara. “I feel a special kinship with the other second-generation residents who are here now. That’s a unique experience.”
Like her mother before her, Barbara is actively involved in the community as part of the Welcome Committee and the Better Hearing @ Fox Hill Committee. That’s important for this couple, who have a deep affection and connection to music. Sam plays the cello and pipe organ, while Barbara has performed for residents on the community’s Steinway concert grand piano. The couple has also sponsored chamber music students from Boston’s New England Conservatory to perform at Fox Hill Village.
Barbara’s belief in music as a unifying force mirrors the sense of community she and Sam have found at Fox Hill Village, just like Barbara’s mother before her.
by Sandra Davis | Jun 16, 2025 | News, Spotlight Fox Hill VIllage, Uncategorized
Remember the last time you went for a walk in the woods or got your hands dirty gardening? How did it make you feel? Intuitively, we know it’s good for us. Research studies also confirm that spending time in nature positively affects our physical, emotional and cognitive well-being.
Nature improves cognitive function.
As far back as the 1970s, a U.S. Forest Service study suggested that contact with nature can help us recover from mental fatigue and restore attention. If you’re feeling the mind-numbing effects of digital overload — that constant stream of news, ads and people clamoring for attention — put down your iPad and go for a walk in the park.
Henry David Thoreau was famous for his daily walks. In a speech at Thoreau’s funeral, Ralph Waldo Emerson described how the length of Thoreau’s walk reflected the length of his writing. If shut up in the house, he didn’t write at all. Einstein was another devoted walker. He used to take daily walks in the woods on the Princeton campus and his cognitive function was among the best of anyone who ever lived.
Since the original Forest Service study, researchers have found that a “nature break” also helps restore the brain’s ability to process information. In a 2008 study in Ann Arbor, Michigan, participants were given a tough memory test, then assigned to take a 50-minute walk through either the Ann Arbor Arboretum or downtown Ann Arbor. When the participants returned to the lab and took the test again, the arboretum group scored significantly higher. So, if you’re struggling to stay focused on a task or simply stuck on a crossword, head outside. The fresh air and sunshine may be all you need to solve what’s puzzling you.
Nature reduces stress and boosts immunity.
In the 1980s, the technological revolution was in full swing in Japan. While the adoption of robotics and semiconductors energized the economy, it left Japanese workers stressed and burned out. Not surprisingly, the concept of “forest bathing” emerged in Japan at the same time. The Japanese government began encouraging shinrin-roku — taking in the forest air — to help workers de-stress.
A study of 260 people at 24 sites across Japan found that people who gazed on forest scenery for 20 minutes experienced a 13.4 percent reduction in salivary cortisol, a stress hormone, compared to people in urban settings. And physically getting out in nature works even better to lower stress and boost immunity.
Plants emit airborne chemicals called phytoncides to protect them from rotting and insects. Interestingly, these chemicals also help protect humans by lowering cortisol, pulse rate and blood pressure. In fact, studies suggest these chemicals help fight viruses and cancer by increasing the number and activity of immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells. In a 2007 study in Japan, men who took two-hour walks in a forest over two days had a 50 percent spike in levels of NK cells
But don’t feel like you have to go for a two-hour walk in the woods to benefit from nature. Consider joining an outdoor exercise class. Play golf. Or grab a book and find a shady tree to sit under. Any time spent outdoors where you have access to green space is good for your health.
Nature nurtures well-being in the garden.
Scientists have long known that a little dirt can be good for you. In the 1970s, scientists identified mycobacterium vaccae, a bacterium in garden soil that has an anti-inflammatory effect on our brains, lowering stress and improving immune response. It may explain why people who grow up on farms have lower rates of Crohn’s disease, asthma and allergies.
Gardening also exposes your body to sunlight, which benefits your immune system, helps build strong bones and improves quality of sleep. Gardening may even lower your risk of dementia. A 16-year study of older adults in Australia showed that daily gardening reduced the risk of developing dementia by 36 percent.
See how our garden grows.
The resident gardens at Fox Hill Village are a great place to dig in the dirt and lift your mood. Raised beds make gardening easier and fellow gardeners are happy to help if needed. Colorful flowers, fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables are nourishment for body and soul.
Get into outdoor living at Fox Hill Village.
Getting into nature is as easy as stepping outside at Fox Hill Village. Our 110-acre campus includes paved walking paths that immerse you in serene woodlands and landscaped gardens — ideal for walks with your two- and four-legged friends. For longer hikes, you can explore the adjacent Lowell Woods Trail that takes you into a protected forest. It’s great for birdwatching or a rejuvenating “forest bath.”
When the weather’s nice, we also enjoy gathering on our patio for barbecues or an al fresco lunch. Fresh air, beautiful scenery and good company never fail to enhance the experience.
To learn more about outdoor living at Fox Hill Village, visit the outdoor living page on this website. Better yet, schedule a personal tour and see for yourself. Simply call us at 781.329.4433 or use our contact form.
by Heidi Harrison | May 7, 2025 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
When Sherla Alberola moved to Fox Hill Village in late September 2024, she brought with her a lifetime of stories — and a surprising talent for moving. In fact, this artist and entrepreneur has moved 62 times in her life. That’s not just relocation — it’s a world-class tour of resilience, reinvention, and relentless curiosity.
Sherla’s journey began in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The daughter of a Budweiser truck driver, Sherla came from humble beginnings — but she never let that define her. The first in her family to attend college, she took a bold leap shortly after graduation in the form of a one-way ticket to Europe on a converted warship sailing from Quebec to Rotterdam. Her only plan? Visit the Brussels World’s Fair. What followed was a life of extraordinary twists.
A job hunt led her to Germany, where she landed a teaching role at Berlitz, the global language school. It was there she met the man who would become her husband — despite the small detail that he didn’t speak English. Nine months later, they were married in London. After a year in Algeria waiting on a visa, the couple eventually settled in Detroit and returned to working for Berlitz. That marked the beginning of decades spent on the move with two children in tow and frequent transfers as her husband rose to become President and CEO of Berlitz Worldwide. But that was only Act One.
As technology evolved, Sherla and her husband saw an opportunity to revolutionize language education. They left Berlitz and launched their own company — first called Linguatec, later renamed Bridge. Sherla was the creative engine, developing curriculum, writing textbooks, and training teachers in the Direct Method. Based in Denver, their reach extended across Latin America. For years, they spent winters in Brazil, working marathon hours from dawn until late into the night.
Sherla didn’t love business, but she proved she could lead when she had to. “I found out I could do things I didn’t know I could do,” she says. That quiet strength would serve her well later in life, especially when her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. They eventually relocated to a continuing care retirement community in California, but life still had more chapters to write.
Sherla’s soul has always been that of an artist. Whether in Salida, Colorado — an artists’ enclave north of Santa Fe — or in Princeton, NJ, where she first found success, Sherla has expressed herself through pastels, watercolors, collage, and mixed media. Her apartment at Fox Hill Village is a curated gallery of her own vibrant works, alongside pieces from other artists she admires. Creativity continues to be her deepest source of satisfaction.
These days, Sherla also finds joy in writing her memoir, diving into genealogy, and playing her grand piano. And if the activity team at Fox Hill has their way, the community will host a gallery showing of her incredible artwork right here on campus.
So how did this globe-trotting linguist and artist end up in Westwood, Massachusetts? Like many residents, Sherla followed family ties. Her daughter’s mother-in-law, Dianne Russell, moved to Fox Hill Village in 2022. The whole family was so impressed by the care and community that they encouraged Sherla to join. She says it’s been one of her best moves yet — no small praise from someone who’s made 62 of them.
“Fox Hill Village is truly the best,” she says. “The people here make a conscious effort to include everyone. And yes, the food and entertainment are a big plus, too!”
With her warmth, wisdom, and creative spirit, Sherla has become part of what makes this community so special. And while she may have left behind many addresses over the years, it’s clear she’s finally found home.
by Heidi Harrison | Apr 22, 2025 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
I want to share something personal with you—a story of change, commitment, and quiet triumph.
Just over a year ago, I moved into Fox Hill Village with a clear goal: to prioritize my health and regain strength. Almost immediately, I began working with Stephanie, one of the phenomenal trainers here, twice a week. On top of that, I added my own independent workouts three times a week. It became more than a routine—it became a lifestyle.
But to understand why this mattered so much, let me take you back.
Four months before my move, I was attending a beautiful wedding weekend at a quaint bed-and-breakfast. One afternoon, as I settled in for a nap, I heard a knock—housekeeping. In my hurry to answer, I tripped over an area rug. I ended up on the floor, unable to get up on my own. No injuries, thankfully—just bruised pride and a sobering realization: I needed to get stronger. That fall wasn’t just a fluke. It was a wake-up call.
So when I arrived at Fox Hill Village, I was determined to change that narrative.
Fast forward to this past Sunday. I spotted two hefty Amazon packages outside my door—just as I was getting ready for bed. They were heavy, no doubt about it, but I was feeling confident. I bent down to lift the first one and took a step forward… and lost my balance.
I fell. Again.
But this time was different.
I got up. By myself. Easily.
In that moment, I realized how far I’ve come. A year ago, I needed help. Today, I am stronger—physically and mentally—because of the consistent guidance, motivation, and support from Stephanie and the entire fitness team at FHV.
I still have goals ahead, but I’m already living proof of what’s possible with the right people by your side.
Thank you, Stephanie. Thank you, FOXHILL360. You’ve helped me stand taller—literally and figuratively.
– Lucy
Are you ready to become a Fitness Warrior? The FOXHILL360 team is here to coach you—one muscle, one step, one victory at a time.
