Aging Vibrantly is Easier Than You Think!

"Social contact may be as effective as physical activity in improving mood and quality of life," reports a study in the Annals of Family Medicine, which goes on to note that "social participation and social support networks are paramount to long-term positive outcomes and psychological well-being for older people."

Put more simply, it's good to have friends! 

Each Erickson Senior Living community offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with abundant opportunities to meet and engage with neighbors. Instead of facing isolation in a house that no longer suits their needs, residents enjoy an array of social activities right outside their front door. 

By spending time with like-minded friends and pursuing their favorite hobbies, residents are making the most of their retirement. 

In my position as a sales counselor at Siena Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community in Naples, Fla., I meet with hundreds of retirees who are seeking a new environment, complete with a maintenance-free lifestyle that leaves plenty of time for those valuable social connections. 

Here are some of the questions I am asked most frequently regarding this important topic:

Q: I love the community, but I am concerned that I don't know anyone. How easy is it to meet new people?

A: This is one of the most common questions asked by prospective residents--and the easiest one to answer, because nearly everyone moving into an Erickson Senior Living community is in the same boat! 

I have seen over and over again how easy it is to meet new people and make new friends after you move in, thanks to our warm, welcoming communities. I can say for certain that you will immediately feel accepted and comfortable. 

Often our newest residents make their first social connections just by having dinner at a restaurant or by joining new activities. These are two great places to start. 

Q: I look forward to meeting new people, but I still hope to engage in activities and relationships outside the community. Will this be possible? 

A: Absolutely! Many of our residents stay in touch with lifelong friends and continue enjoying activities within the greater community--while also finding new hobbies and things to do in their new home. 

I tell prospective residents, "You can be as active as you wish, you can socialize and travel as often as you wish, and you can come and go as you please, just as you always have. But now, at the end of the day, you have a beautiful apartment home surrounded by new friends and activities to return to."

Q: In addition to social connectivity, what are the other benefits of moving to an Erickson Senior Living community, compared to staying in my house?

A: Without a doubt, it is the freedom from the stress and burden of maintaining a property. Moving to an Erickson Senior Living community means you no longer have to deal with costly repairs and upkeep. Many people realize they rarely use most of the rooms in the house they've lived in for years!

In addition, lots of people find that the make-up of the neighborhoods they live in has changed. As friends move away and new people move into the neighborhood, it can be very isolating. Moving to an Erickson Senior Living community takes away the worry and replaces it with a carefree lifestyle full of possibilities.

If you're interested in learning more about living at an Erickson Senior Living community, my biggest piece of advice is come and visit, explore your options, and meet with our sales team. There is never any pressure, just a wonderful opportunity to learn more! Find an Erickson Senior Living community near you today.