Living Well at Tallgrass Creek

A recent U.S. News & World Report survey found that older adults who move to a senior living community report feeling less lonely, more physically active, and are more engaged than before they moved.

That's no surprise to Henry and Susan Ninstil. Since moving to Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., they have enjoyed a vibrant lifestyle filled with the amenities and interactions that keep them engaged and fulfilled.

They moved in September 2025 from The Villages in Florida, eager to trade home maintenance for more time spent together doing what they love.

"We wanted to make the move while we were still healthy and able to enjoy everything here," says Susan.

A warm welcome

It didn't take long for them to feel right at home. "That happened almost immediately," says Susan.

"Everyone on our floor gets along," she adds. "You'd think we've known each other for years. We look out for each other, share stories, and find things in common. It's such a wonderful feeling of belonging."

That sense of connection is exactly what Resident Services Coordinator Connie Mason and her team work to nurture every day.

"In our community, residents find so many wonderful ways to connect and build meaningful friendships," says Mason. "Whether it's joining a fitness class, painting together, playing cards, or sharing a delicious meal, there's always an opportunity to laugh, talk, and feel part of something special."

She adds, "We take time to get to know residents' interests so we can connect them with activities and groups that fit their personalities. We have over 100 clubs and interest groups. Our activities give residents a sense of purpose and create friendships that make every day brighter."

Vibrant living made easy

For Henry and Susan, the vibrant social atmosphere was exactly what they hoped to find.

"The Villages had a great sense of community, too, but it was still a house. You had to maintain everything and contract people for repairs. Here, we have all the same opportunities to stay active and social without the stress of homeownership," Henry explains.

The Ninstils quickly began exploring new activities as soon as they moved in. Henry, who ran bocce and shuffleboard groups in Florida, is already working with the Resident Life team to establish a bocce group at Tallgrass Creek. "We've had some classes already, and it's been wonderful to see people excited about it," he says.

Susan looks forward to joining the water exercise classes and morning chair workouts. "In The Villages, I co-led a group, and I know how great those classes make you feel," she says.

A social dining experience

For Henry and Susan, enjoying a good meal is another way to stay connected, and Tallgrass Creek's six on-site restaurants provide the perfect setting for both delicious dining and social interaction.

"The meal program is one of the biggest factors in getting to know people," says Henry. "You can make plans to meet friends for dinner or just start a conversation. It's such an easy, natural way to connect."

New residents are easily recognized by the sunflower on their name tags. Susan says this simple tradition helps break the ice. "People see the sunflower and immediately start chatting," she says. "Everyone wants to welcome you!"

Worry-free lifestyle

Since moving to Tallgrass Creek, the Ninstils have discovered that their new maintenance-free lifestyle offers both comfort and peace of mind.

"We had a light bulb go out, and I called to ask what kind it was so I could replace it. They said, 'Oh no, we do that for you!'" says Henry. "It's such a relief not to worry about things like that anymore."

Susan adds, "You don't realize how much of your time is taken up dealing with a house until you don't have to. It's like a weight has been lifted. Now we can spend that time walking, meeting friends, or trying something new."

A great decision

Looking back, Henry and Susan agree that moving to Tallgrass Creek was one of the best decisions they've made.

"When we started thinking about moving to Overland Park, we toured a few other places," says Susan. "But we kept coming back to Tallgrass Creek. The difference was the community feel--the people, the staff, the support. It's the whole package."

Henry agrees. "From the sales team to our neighbors, everyone has been so supportive."

Grateful for the friendships and peace of mind they've found, the Ninstils say life at Tallgrass Creek truly feels like home. "This is where we belong," Susan says.

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

By Julia Collins