Reservists Find That Smaller Floor Plans Fit Their Needs Perfectly

Accustomed to life in her 1,500-square-foot condo in Bradenton, Fla., Joyce Tevald thought her retirement residence would be the same size.

But after learning about Emerson Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community under construction in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., she realized that a smaller residence would fulfill all her needs.

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Without the responsibilities of homeownership like lawn care and appliance repairs, residents will have more time to participate in engaging activities and take advantage of industry-leading amenities. As a result, the entire 46-acre community truly becomes their home.

"I'm looking forward to the different social events, exercise classes, and meeting new people," says Joyce, who is ready to move into her 917-square-foot residence at Emerson Lakes.

Getting started

When Joyce started exploring her senior living options, she saw an advertisement for Emerson Lakes and attended an introductory luncheon hosted by the sales team.

Impressed with everything she heard, Joyce asked her son and daughter-in-law for their thoughts. As seasonal Marco Island residents, they decided to pay a visit to Siena Lakes, a sister Erickson Senior Living community in North Naples, Fla.

"He's a builder and she's a physician, so I figured they would be the best people--with their experience--to give their input," Joyce notes. "They weren't even back in the car when they had me on the phone and told me that if I didn't move in, they were going to!"

She immediately called the Emerson Lakes sales team to make an appointment to join the Priority List, which would hold her spot in line for her desired floor plan.

The right fit

Joyce, requesting a two-bedroom residence with a large den overlooking the water, was put on the list for the community's third building.

However, the sales team suggested she consider the Cranford, a one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home with a large, open-concept living and dining area as well as a lanai facing the water.

The best part was that Joyce could move in much sooner.

"I realized that I was just interested in a second bedroom for company," she says. "I didn't need to spend the money on an extra room that I would rarely use."

Once she reserved the Cranford, Joyce scheduled an in-home visit with an Emerson Lakes sales associate, who specializes in helping incoming residents plan ahead for their move. He measured her existing furniture and used a magnetic board to mimic her floor plan and map out where everything could go.

"He moved around my furniture so we could see what would fit. He was very knowledgeable and patient," she recalls. "We went through every piece of furniture and all of my artwork to determine what I could take. I was surprised at how much I could get into the smaller floor plan."

In addition to easily fitting her computer desk in the sizeable bedroom, Hamann arranged the furniture so that Joyce could bring her two recliners with ample space for them to fully open. They also found that much of her treasured artwork could adorn the walls.

More outside your door

Hamann notes that reservists' most common concern is not being able to bring furniture and belongings with them, especially when they choose a floor plan that is smaller than their current residence.

"We work together to find the right balance," Hamann explains. "I often help future residents realize that they may no longer need something, based on the lifestyle and the amenities available at Emerson Lakes."

For instance, a floor plan may include a smaller pantry, and often, it's all they'll need. With two on-campus restaurants and private dining areas for entertaining, residents can rely on the expert Dining Services team to handle the meal planning, prep, and cooking. Plus, there are no dishes to clean up.

"In fact, most people I meet with tell me that they rarely use their dining table," says Hamann. "Why bring it with you if it's not going to benefit you?"

He adds, "My goal is to help people simplify their lives. Many do so by choosing smaller floor plans, exactly as Joyce did."

An active lifestyle

With less responsibility comes more time for fun, and that is exactly what Joyce is looking forward to.

At Erickson Senior Living communities across the country, many residents leave their homes for the day to participate in on-campus activities and events. Between club meetings, entertainment and performances, card games, and exercise classes, it's easy for residents to maintain an active, social lifestyle.

"I'm a people person. I can't wait to make new friends at Emerson Lakes!" says Joyce, who already envisions herself thriving in her future home.

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Linda Esterson