Friends Drawn to The Vibrant Lifestyle Emerson Lakes Offers

On a riverboat cruise down the Nile three years ago, Jeff Ryder and Alvin Stout met Chris and Tom Sloane. The two couples quickly discovered they live just four miles apart in the Sarasota, Fla., area.

After the cruise, they got together to share photographs, and they've been friends ever since. They regularly go out for dinner, play pickleball, and go boating together. "They're great people," says Alvin. "We like them very much."

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When word spread that Emerson Lakes, a new Erickson Senior Living community, would be opening in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., both couples were intrigued. To learn more about the community, they attended the same sales event--without planning it.

"It was really coincidental that we all had an interest in Emerson Lakes," Jeff recalls, with a laugh. "One night, we were talking about continuing care retirement communities, and then [next thing you know], we were all at the same event!"

Learning more

First-time visitors are invited to an informational luncheon at the Sales and Information Center that features a presentation, a question and answer session, and the opportunity for more personalized discussions with sales team members.

Guests can also walk around the model kitchen and view the community's full site map.

"We also host exclusive events for Priority List members and reservists. It's a great way to learn more about floor plans, amenities, and activities, as well as get to know future neighbors," explains Sydney Ditto, senior sales and event associate.

Exploring their options

Jeff and Alvin love their four-bedroom house, but the idea of a carefree lifestyle and peace of mind for the future led them to explore continuing care retirement communities.

Both were involved in helping family members research and choose a senior living community in the past, so they understand the importance of planning ahead. "I would rather know now and tell my children that this is the place where I would be content," says Alvin.

Eager to learn more about the amenities, activities, and services that will be offered at Emerson Lakes, Jeff and Alvin signed up for an informational event.

"We wanted to see how the community would suit our needs," says Alvin. "Attending events, meeting with sales experts, and connecting with others who are planning a similar move has been a helpful process for us."

The couple was pleased to discover that, at Emerson Lakes, they'd be able to continue hosting friends and family and remain involved in local activities and organizations--in addition to enjoying the range of classes, clubs, and activities at the new community.

After meeting with the sales team, they submitted a fully refundable $1,000 deposit to join the community's Priority List, which saves their spot in line for an available residence. They intend to move in about five years.

Ready now

Chris and Tom, who currently live in a three-bedroom house, are ready to leave the responsibilities of homeownership behind. Once they heard about Emerson Lakes' maintenance-free homes, they were sold.

"It's a big weight off our shoulders," says Tom. "We are ready [to move in] now!"

Maintenance needs are handled by the community's expert General Services team. When residents need to replace a ceiling light bulb, change HVAC filters, or fix a leaky faucet, they simply place a phone call. There's no need to research reliable plumbers and wait all day for them to arrive--or not show at all.

Like Jeff and Alvin, Chris and Tom joined the Priority List to secure a spot in line for their desired floor plans--a two-bedroom or a one-bedroom plus den.

Chris anticipates attending educational lectures in the auditorium, hanging out by the pool, and frequenting the poolside bar. Tom is looking forward to playing pickleball and working out in the state-of-the-art fitness center. Together, they're excited to stroll along the beautifully landscaped walking paths with their yellow lab, Chico.

"Emerson Lakes will have everything," says Chris. "There's already a sense of community, and we're really excited about that. It isn't just buildings with services; it's a community of people who will be your friends."

Looking ahead

The peace of mind, local ties, and variety of activities are all aspects of Emerson Lakes that have impressed Jeff and Alvin. They are also delighted by the prospect of living near the Sloanes, and the feeling is mutual.

"We have so much in common and have such a good time together," Chris says. "None of us have issues meeting people and making new friends, but it will be so nice to be at Emerson Lakes together. I'm sure we'll see them much more often!"

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