Fitness Classes and Amenities Support Resident Health at Lantern Hill

Phyllis Buchsbaum has maintained an active, healthy lifestyle since moving to Lantern Hill, an Erickson Senior Living community in New Providence, N.J.

"As soon as the movers left, I went to the fitness center," she recalls, with a laugh.

With an on-site fitness center, climate-controlled pool, variety of exercise classes, and outdoor amenities that promote activity and connection, residents find it easy to care for their overall well-being.

And the community's experienced, trained fitness staff--like Fitness Manager Ilyse Rogozenski, who has been in the industry for 25 years--are always available to help residents reach their goals.

"I'm passionate about health and fitness. Finding an exercise routine you're excited about makes a big difference, especially in day-to-day life," says Rogozenski. "I often hear from residents, 'I could carry a big bag of groceries, and it wasn't as heavy as I thought it would be.' When they see the real benefits of fitness, that's the most rewarding part for me."

Array of classes

Exercise classes offered at the fitness center are very popular. In fact, attendance continues to grow.

"We've had to move several classes to bigger spaces, which is a good problem to have! Many classes have 20-plus residents," says Rogozenski. "And some classes are so popular that we hold them back-to-back."

Phyllis attends the 9 a.m. class, which blends exercises from the community's Pilates with tone and stretch classes, five days a week. "I also take a half-hour balance class once a week," she says.

"Residents like coming to class, feeling that positive energy from everybody and the instructor. We make it fun!" says Rogozenski. "If the class is three days a week, they're there three days a week."

Other classes, like line dancing and qigong, are taught by residents. Phyllis enjoys the line dancing class.

"When I lived in Florida, I danced a lot, but mostly ballroom dancing and folk dancing. Line dancing is very different, but I really like it," she says.

Personalized plans

Lantern Hill's fitness instructors can also provide personalized exercise plans for residents, no matter their level of experience.

"Some residents come in with a high comfort level because they already have a routine. Others will come in and say, 'I've never attended a fitness class' or 'I've never lifted weights before,'" says Rogozenski. "No matter their experience, I speak with them to determine their goals and any health concerns. Then, I recommend some exercises or classes that will be the most beneficial for them."

And if someone is new to the fitness center's equipment, the instructors can offer guidance on how to use the machines safely and effectively.

"The fitness center has top-of-the-line equipment, like NuStep machines," says Rogozenski. "It's amazing to see how confident residents become in their routines once they understand what to do."

Impressive amenities

Beyond the fitness center, Lantern Hill residents stay active by strolling along the community's scenic walking paths. Some have even started walking clubs to catch up with friends and neighbors while getting their steps in.

The two on-site bocce courts are also very popular. Phyllis is a big fan.

"I played tennis for many years because I like being outside. Now, I play bocce to be outdoors on a nice day--and, physically, it's not as difficult," says Phyllis. "We just had our annual resident versus staff tournament, and we won!"

Phyllis also appreciates having convenient access to an indoor, climate-controlled pool. "I swim laps on Saturdays in the aquatics center," she notes.

'Everything I need'

Phyllis, previously living in a 55-plus community for 15 years, is happy she made the move to Lantern Hill. As a continuing care retirement community, Lantern Hill offers all the amenities and programs she needs to maintain an active lifestyle today, as well as a range of health care services to support her in the future.

"Lantern Hill provides me with everything I need," she says. "It's easy to make friends here; l like having an active social life. I love getting out and meeting new people. I belong here!"

Rogozenski loves seeing residents like Phyllis flourish and thrive at Lantern Hill.

"I've had residents come to me and say, 'You know, I went to the doctor, and I got a great bill of health,'" she says. "While that may have to do with the fitness offerings here, I think it also has to do with everything else Lantern Hill offers. This is a place for seniors to make the most of their retirement."

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

By Gregory J. Alexander