Experienced Team Members Enhance Health and Well-Being at Tallgrass Creek

Resident Kay Dayton developed a healthy habit after she and her husband Dan moved to Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans. 

"I threw myself into exercise after we moved here, and now I work out every day--usually more than once," says Kay. "The instructors are priceless! The convenience of having so many wonderful classes just a short walk from our apartment home is huge." 

Everything in one place

Kay and Dan, natives of Table Rock Lake in Missouri, put their house on the market in hopes of moving closer to family. 

"Our house sold in one day! We couldn't believe it," recalls Kay. "From there, our son David helped us research retirement communities in the Kansas City area."

But it didn't take long for the couple to realize that Tallgrass Creek was the community for them. 

"There was such an upbeat atmosphere when we visited, and everything we needed was right on campus," says Kay, who had extensive back surgery just months before their move.

"I found out that exercising was going to be an important part of my healing process," she adds. "A doctor once told me that if you don't keep moving, you won't be able to move. I believe it!"

Now, Kay's fitness regimen includes one or more exercise classes, frequent walks on the treadmill, personal training sessions, and the occasional water aerobics class in the heated pool at the aquatics center. 

Classes led by experts 

Like Kay, Tallgrass Creek residents can choose from more than 50 exercise classes each week, geared to all levels of ability. In the community's two large fitness centers, sessions include strength training, toning, stretching, balance, cardio, and low-impact exercise.

Fitness Coordinator Camin Bell is just one member of Tallgrass Creek's experienced fitness team. In her nine years at the community, she has taught everything from basic fitness to high-energy cardio. 

"I change up my classes frequently to keep things fun and lively," says Bell. "I feel that if it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you." 

Fitness Specialist Ashley Huesers has a degree in exercise science and oversees the range of classes in Tallgrass Creek's aquatics center.

"The water is always heated to 88 degrees! If you're looking for a no-impact workout, water is a great cushion for your joints," says Huesers, who also teaches Zumba. 

Rounding out the team is Fitness Specialist Zane Zismer, who also has a degree in exercise science. A personal trainer for 20 years, he leads tai chi and several other classes at Tallgrass Creek.

"We make our classes fun so there's a real connection between all of us," says Zismer. "It's always rewarding to see people benefit from consistent exercise. And it happens quickly!"

More than exercise

Tallgrass Creek's on-site medical center also supports Kay's health and well-being.   

"Dan and I see Dr. Sally Bruns at the medical center, and she's delightful," says Kay. "She spends plenty of time with us--that isn't always the case in other practices."

Medical Director Wendy Belcher, M.D., heads up the medical center, which is staffed by full-time professionals and offers a full range of services, including routine wellness visits, lab work, sick visits, and vaccinations. 

"Most retirement communities have doctors who practice at several communities and float between," says Belcher. "Not at Tallgrass! It's wonderful to practice here with a staff dedicated to residents' well-being."

"We love that everything we need is all in one place. Even if the weather is bad, we can still walk to the fitness center and the medical center," explains Kay. "This was an important factor when Dan and I were choosing a retirement community."

'A positive atmosphere'

In addition to the physical benefits of exercising, Kay enjoys the camaraderie that the fitness classes create. 

"You get to know everyone in the class and look forward to seeing each other," says Kay. 

The Daytons also enjoy socializing with their neighbors at Santa Fe Ridge, Tallgrass Creek's newest residence building.

"We just open our door and meet in the hall for happy hour every month," says Kay. "And we take turns bringing donuts and coffee for get-togethers from time to time. It's so fun and easy." 

And with an array of activities and events happening across the 65-acre campus, the opportunities to meet new people are practically endless. 

"The speakers, concerts, and dinner dances here are awesome," says Kay. "It's such a positive atmosphere here!" 

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.