Devonshire’s Numerous Amenities Provide Opportunities for Safe, Social Interaction

"I am convinced that social relationships are a key to living a happy life, and that a happy life adds so much, including years, to one's life," says Bob Frasier, a community member at Devonshire, an Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. "And it doesn't really matter what sort of activity provides that social interaction. For many people here at Devonshire, it's card games such as mah-jongg or bingo. There are also many different activities and groups, large and small."

Current medical research supports Bob's claims. According to an article published by Harvard Medical School, “Social connections not only give us pleasure, they also influence our long-term health in ways every bit as powerful as adequate sleep, a good diet, and not smoking. Dozens of studies have shown that people who have social support from their community are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer.”

Each day, community members at Devonshire utilize the many, safely reopened campus amenities to experience a full, engaged, and healthier lifestyle.

“Our community members are making safe, socially-conscious decisions regarding the activities they engage in,” says Devonshire Community Resources Manager Marty Bores. “All of our staff work diligently to provide a wide range of activities to meet our resident's needs.” 

Safe decisions

As a result of responsible decision-making, a majority of Devonshire's popular activities resumed this past fall, including dining in the campus restaurants, croquet matches on the full-size court, swimming in the recently updated pool, joining friends on the PGA National golf courses and tennis courts, and workouts in the state-of-the-art fitness center.

“When I think of amenities here at Devonshire, the starting place isn't all the sports and other activities available to all the residents, including the privileges of full membership at PGA National, but the way that we have been protected from the virus while still being entertained, well fed, and cared for,” says community member John Hannon. “In addition, I'm still playing golf at PGA on any of its five tournament courses, and my wife Jackie and I both play croquet right here on our campus court.”

As residents work up an appetite with their many activities, Devonshire's Director of Dining Services Joe Marinelli and his team added new ways for residents to enjoy their meals, including in-person dining at 50% capacity and daily hot meal delivery.

“Dinner with friends is my favorite amenity,” says Bob. “When our restaurants first reopened in September, I took advantage of dining two or three times a week, sometimes inviting friends to my apartment for a drink before dinner.”

Let me entertain you

Because of Devonshire's enviable Florida location, residents enjoy safe, poolside entertainment, including recent performances by favorite local performers like Lori and Phil Adams, pianist Jon King Roberts, and Kenny B.

“These outdoor performances are one of the many benefits of living in Florida,” says Bores. “Residents enjoy a wonderful meal at the outside dining area at our Cavendish restaurant while listening to the performers. Even if you are not dining, residents are invited to visit the pool area and grab a seat. There is plenty of space to keep everyone safe and secure.”

In addition, throughout the year, residents enjoy the opportunity to stream online classes through Florida Atlantic University's (FAU) Lifelong Learning Society program in topics ranging from politics and world affairs to art, music, and literature. This fall, community members enjoyed Irving Labovitz, J.D.'s class, Current Contentious and Confusing Legal Battles. 

Life decisions

As a result of the safe and enviable lifestyle Devonshire residents continue to enjoy, demand for a home at the community continues to soar, reaching record numbers.

“Last year was an eye-opening time for many people, especially those who had put off retirement plans and struggled with social isolation in their houses,” says Devonshire Director of Sales Kathy McCrossin. “I encourage anyone interested in learning more to contact our team.”

In addition to hosting safe, in-person visits, the Devonshire sales team offers virtual appointments for both prospective residents and family members. 

“Our community members are living happier and healthier lives because of the personal connections and sense of belonging they enjoy as a result of moving to Devonshire,” says Marty. “We are honored to serve in this way and will continue to find new, exciting, and safe ways for residents to engage in the activities they love with friends who sup-port and encourage their efforts.”

The first step to enjoying maintenance-free retirement living at Devonshire is to request a brochure at  https://www.ericksonliving.com/devonshire/request-form