A Seat at the Table: How Evie Smick Sparked Connection at Edgehill
How One Resident Reignited a Beloved Tradition—and Turned a New Beginning Into a Place of Belonging
For many older adults, including Edgehill resident Evie Smick, moving to a retirement community stirs a mix of emotions. There’s the bittersweet task of downsizing a home filled with memories—paired with the excitement of starting fresh and discovering a new community. It’s a significant transition, often marked by both anticipation and uncertainty, especially when leaving behind familiar neighbors and routines.
At Edgehill, a continuing care retirement community in Stamford, one resident turned that fear into friendship—one conversation at a time.
Meeting Change with Conversation
“It is easy to feel like an outsider in a new place,” says Evie Smick, who moved to Edgehill during the COVID-19 pandemic. “But all it takes is one conversation to start feeling at home.”
Evie arrived in 2022, when residents tended to stay in small, consistent social pods. While safety was a priority, limited interaction made it harder to connect. Wanting to foster new friendships, Evie reintroduced an earlier Edgehill tradition: the Conversation Table.
Evie Smick’s Conversation Table: Turning Strangers Into Neighbors
Held in one of Edgehill’s private dining rooms, the Conversation Table invites up to eight residents at a time to share a meal, meet new neighbors and engage in meaningful conversation.
Example topics at the Conversation Table include: “What is a vacation mishap you will never forget?” or “What is a favorite childhood memory?” The goal is simple: spark connection, storytelling and laughter that turns strangers into neighbors.
Connection, Not Controversy
Topics at the table vary widely. Residents might reflect on an art exhibit, discuss a favorite book or swap childhood memories of growing up in New England. Some evenings are lively, others reflective. Politics and religion are gently avoided—this table is meant for connection, not controversy.
Staying Active, Staying Connected
Beyond mealtime, Edgehill offers many ways to build community. Residents join clubs, take classes and explore hobbies together. For Evie, staying active is essential.
“I wanted to find a place where I could still be active and involved,” she says.
She enjoys water aerobics in the indoor heated pool, led by former professional figure skater Tamara Sharp. “It is the perfect way to start my day and connect with others.”
Always a Seat at the Table
“I am glad I made the move when I did, while I am still independent,” Evie shares. “Life changes as you get older. Living in a community like this helps me stay connected and active.”
Because at Edgehill, there is always a seat at the table.