Enhancing personal health and well-being is a top priority among people interested in senior living communities, according to a recent survey conducted by Erickson Senior Living with Edge Research.
In fact, nearly nine out of ten Baby Boomers noted their preferences for the critical health benefits that continuing care retirement communities like those managed by Erickson offer, such as: access to a full continuum of care in one location, on-site emergency response and medical center, and proximity to amenities and social engagement opportunities.
We spoke with Dr. Matt Narrett, chief medical officer at Erickson Senior Living, to learn more about how the company uses collaboration, technology, and innovation to continue evolving its health and well-being offerings to meet the needs of current and future community members.
Q: Why is Erickson Senior Living's integrative approach to health and well-being ideal for residents?
A: We take a holistic approach to creating an environment where residents can realize a full sense of well-being without even leaving the community.
Well-being to us means feeling good in mind, body, and spirit, and we have worked for decades to develop services and opportunities that allow residents to live the lifestyle they want, and in many cases, do things they had previously only dreamed about. Our communities are active and vibrant places, where the needs and preferences of everyone who lives here comes first.
Q: In 2022, Erickson Senior Living is making a major investment from the Well-Being Fund into its communities. How is this commitment impacting residents?
A: The Well-Being Fund was first developed in 2019 to make substantial contributions and accelerate health-related enhancements that matter most to residents. The Fund creates opportunities for residents to achieve their optimal well-being across all dimensions of health.
Projects are determined in partnership with residents and community leaders, and so far, have ranged from outdoor enhancements such as walking trails and dog parks, to creating spaces for meditation and fun activities like disc golf at some campuses. Indoor projects have included pickleball courts, new cardio and strength equipment for the fitness centers, and much more.
This investment in communities' programs, services, and technologies was inspired by a comprehensive approach to improving resiliency. We are deeply committed to enhancing our health and well-being offerings, and our team is thrilled to see residents thrive as a result.
Q: How do residents take advantage of technology to meet their health and well-being goals?
A: Technology can be a very helpful tool for community members to live better lives, and we are making substantial investments in opportunities that will make an ongoing difference.
Now, residents can utilize Wellbeats, an app that offers a range of exercise classes, from the comfort of their apartment homes or while traveling. And Rendever, a virtual reality program designed for older adults, allows residents to connect with others and make new friends by enjoying shared experiences.
Technology has also been critical to medical services throughout the pandemic, during which we conducted more than 75,000 telehealth visits. We continue to improve our services and the resident experience using digital tools to enhance quality of life.
Q: What can you tell us about the collaboration between Erickson Senior Living and the medical professionals who serve the communities?
A: Erickson Senior Living and the Erickson Health Medical Group, our community medical practice, work hand in glove. Never was this more evident than in our fight against COVID-19 over the past two years.
Every service we provided was impacted, so we reinvented our approach through careful planning and collaboration. As a result, we were able to provide a uniform response - based on up-to-date best practices - that continued our top-notch medical service and, ultimately, saved lives.
Our goal is always to provide excellence in care and service so that residents can experience optimal well-being and take advantage of all the community has to offer.
Q: What are the benefits of having all levels of care in one location?
A: Providing access to a full continuum of care at each community is extraordinarily beneficial to the health and well-being of residents. The health care teams and medical providers love it as well!
Proximity and familiarity make a difference. Knowing that your medical provider is on campus. Knowing that the same medical group will provide continuing care services, should you need it. Knowing that the emergency response team can consult with the on-call medical provider 24/7, should you require it.
This continuity provides a better experience for everyone involved, and it's just one example of how we provide peace of mind for residents and their families.
Want to learn more about our commitment to bettering your health and well-being at Erickson Senior Living communities? Search for a community near you today.