Emerson Lakes Reservists Connect at Social and Informational Events

For incoming residents of Emerson Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community opening soon in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., reservist events offer an opportunity to meet future neighbors and begin forming friendships before move-in day.

Sue Barber and Kathy Terpin met at a reservist event last spring. While waiting in line to speak with a member of the Custom Interiors team, they noticed each other's name tag--both indicated they reserved residences in the first phase of construction.

"We decided we'd meet at a table and talk, and that's what we did," says Kathy, a Sarasota area resident.

"I'm so happy we found each other!" says Sue, a Tampa Bay area resident.

Maintaining independence

When Kathy started exploring her senior living options, she was looking for a retirement community that would support her active, independent lifestyle and provide peace of mind.

Through her research, Kathy found that a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) would offer all the clubs and activities she wants now as well as additional levels of care for the future, if her needs ever change.

"I'm very independent, so I'd like to maintain my independence as long as I can," she says. "But I also want a community that can provide support as my needs change over time."

As a CCRC, Emerson Lakes will initially open with independent living residences and an on-site medical center, where residents can go for primary care appointments and services such as flu shots, blood tests, and other screenings.

Plans for Emerson Lakes' continuing care neighborhood, which will offer assisted living and rehabilitation services, are already in the works.

Peace of mind

When Sue began considering her senior living options, she was already familiar with Erickson Senior Living and the benefits CCRCs offer. Her in-laws lived at Wind Crest, an Erickson community in Highlands Ranch, Colo., and one of her aunts lives at Fox Run, an Erickson community in Novi, Mich.

"While my in-laws were [at Wind Crest], we visited often, and it was amazing," recalls Sue, who wanted to plan ahead for her future following her husband's passing.

When she heard about Emerson Lakes, she quickly reserved a spot at an informational luncheon. "I never dreamed that there would be an Erickson Senior Living community in my own backyard!" she says, with a smile.

And when she told her children she was considering a move to Emerson Lakes, they immediately supported the idea. "I could see the look of relief on their faces," says Sue, noting that peace of mind was a significant draw--for her and her family.

Making connections

With Emerson Lakes checking all their boxes, Kathy and Sue reserved homes in the community's first phase of construction--a point of connection that has led to a new friendship.

"[At the reservist event,] we shared our findings and learned that we had the same reasons for wanting to move to a community like Emerson Lakes," recalls Kathy.

After the event, Sue texted Kathy to share how much she enjoyed their conversation. So, when invitations arrived for the next reservist event, they made arrangements to attend together.

"Every event since, we've sat together," Sue says. "And at the next event, we met Diane Baldwin, who is also reserved in one of the community's first buildings. We were chatting and laughing."

Sue later introduced Kathy and Diane to her friend of ten years, Priority List member Donna Podis. Since then, the four women have met for many meals and continue getting to know one another as they look forward to their moves to Emerson Lakes.

More free time

The friends appreciate that they won't have to worry about home maintenance and repairs once they move to Emerson Lakes, creating more time for shared activities.

"The freedom of not having to worry about if I spring a leak in my roof or if my HVAC goes out is huge," says Sue. "I think we'll have fun! We can meet for dinner and have wine tastings at each of our apartments."

Like her new friends and future neighbors, Sue plans on becoming involved in community life shortly after settling in. She is excited to work out in the fitness center, take exercise classes, and join engaging clubs.

Valuable events

Helping future residents get to know one another before they move in is a priority for the sales team.

"Reservist events are held to not only provide information about the community but also offer the opportunity for those in attendance to meet," says Senior Sales Associate Sydney Ditto. "Some of our events are even organized by building, so reservists can get to know their direct neighbors, which helps provide a sense of comfort and familiarity."

Sue agrees, saying, "I love that we've established this network already!"

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

By Linda Esterson