Discover What Diane Tolin Loves About Life at Tallgrass Creek

When Diane Tolin and her husband Larry moved to Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., they were already familiar with the campus. Diane's father, Leo Chance, had lived there for several years, which gave them a firsthand look at the lifestyle, amenities, and the peace of mind that comes from having quality health care on site.

Today, Diane says she is grateful they made the move when they did.

Tribune recently sat down with Diane to ask what attracted them to Tallgrass Creek, how maintenance-free living has changed their daily lives, and why she encourages others to make the move sooner rather than later.

Tribune: What led you to consider Tallgrass Creek?

Diane: One of the biggest factors was the continuing care option. That was very important to us. We also loved the location. Our daughter lives about seven minutes away, our church is nearby, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants in the area.

My father moved here several years before we did. Whenever we visited him, we found ourselves saying, "If we ever move to a retirement community, this is where we'd want to live."

Tribune: Why did you decide to move when you did?

Diane: We had been thinking about it for years. Because my father already lived here, we saw how convenient everything was. As his needs changed and he moved to higher levels of care, we were able to visit him easily and stay involved in his life. That experience reinforced our decision.

Tribune: How has maintenance-free living changed your life?

Diane: It's wonderful. Instead of keeping a list of repair people and trying to find someone to fix a faucet, dishwasher, or appliance, I make one phone call to General Services.

I hear friends who still own homes talking about the challenges of finding reliable contractors, and I realize we simply no longer have to worry about that. It frees up time and eliminates a lot of stress.

Tribune: What activities or opportunities do you enjoy most?

Diane: The exercise program has been wonderful. The instructors create such a fun atmosphere that you look forward to attending classes not just for the exercise, but for the camaraderie.

I'm involved in quilting, knitting, mah-jongg, and exercise classes. I also enjoy the restaurants. It's wonderful not having to grocery shop, cook, and clean up every day.

One of my favorite activities is quilting. Our quilting group creates ten quilts each year for veterans who live at Tallgrass Creek. During a special Veterans Day program, the quilts are presented to the recipients. It's a meaningful tradition.

Tribune: How has Tallgrass Creek impacted your social life?

Diane: The opportunities for connection are everywhere! If I ever feel like talking with someone, I can simply walk down to the lobby and run into friends along the way. There's always something happening and always someone to visit with.

The friendships are one of the best parts. People are welcoming and inclusive, especially toward new residents.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Diane: The continuing care option definitely provides peace of mind, but I've also seen how friends rally around one another during difficult times. Friends make sure they have companionship and support.

Many people who live alone in traditional neighborhoods talk about how lonely mealtimes can be. Here, there is always someone to share a meal with or spend time with.

Tribune: How would you describe the sense of community at Tallgrass Creek?

Diane: Community is really the heart of Tallgrass Creek. What stands out to me is how supportive and accepting everyone is. Residents look out for one another, friendships form naturally, and there are opportunities to connect every day. That sense of belonging makes a tremendous difference.

Tribune: What would you tell someone considering a move to Tallgrass Creek?

Diane: Do it sooner rather than later. Many people think they should wait until they need more support, but I think they're missing out. Moving earlier gives you time to enjoy all the activities, build friendships, and become part of the community.

You don't have to give up your outside interests, your church, or your friends. You can continue doing all of those things while gaining so much more.

For Larry and me, this has been a very positive chapter. Tallgrass Creek has allowed us to focus less on responsibilities and more on enjoying retirement.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Julia Collins