Living Well at Highland Springs

People who live in retirement communities are less lonely, more active, and more engaged than before they moved in, according to a June 2025 U.S. News & World Report survey.

That's certainly been the case for Johannes and Tommie Hylkema, who have enjoyed a vibrant lifestyle filled with activities and meaningful interactions since their April 2023 move to Highland Springs, an Erickson Senior Living community in North Dallas, Tex.

"The move to Highland Springs was a springboard to making new friends!" says Tommie.

The right fit

The Hylkemas, Farmers Branch, Tex., residents, were active in the local community, but they were looking for more interaction and connection--especially because Johannes retired before Tommie.

"I was concerned that he was missing day-to-day interaction with others," says Tommie. "We thought it might be nice to start checking out possibilities for our retirement."

The couple had received a brochure from Highland Springs, which highlighted the range of amenities and activities as well as floor plans for maintenance-free homes. When they happened to pass by the community one day, they stopped in.

Impressed with everything they learned and saw, the couple joined the Priority List to save their spot in line for a residence. "Two weeks later, an apartment became available!" says Tommie.

Upon moving in, Johannes and Tommie received warm welcomes from neighbors and staff. And with plenty of opportunities to foster new connections through clubs, exercise classes, volunteer efforts, creative pursuits, and shared meals, they knew they had chosen the right place for them.

Active and engaged

With so many clubs and activities to explore, Johannes and Tommie didn't waste any time getting involved in community life.

"Johannes joined the landscape committee shortly after we moved here," says Tommie. "In our second year, I joined the Resident Life committee, and he joined the General Services committee. I love to organize events, so the Resident Life committee keeps me busy."

As a member of the Resident Life committee, Tommie partners with Highland Springs' Resident Life team to plan fun, engaging events that bring everyone together.

"We recently launched the Game On! program for residents looking for more weekend fun," says Resident Life Director Kimberly Reed. "It gives residents a chance to try new games, make new connections, and enjoy social weekends designed to bring people together over friendly competitions."

Each year, Resident Life also hosts an Activity Fair, providing residents the opportunity to explore the community's dozens of clubs, groups, and events.

"From educational classes and wellness programs to social groups and live music, there is so much happening across the community," notes Reed. "The Resident Life team takes pride in supporting all of the opportunities that keep our residents engaged, connected, and thriving."

Other ways to connect

In addition to these clubs and activities, Highland Springs' array of amenities makes it even easier for residents to catch up with neighbors and make new friends.

At the fitness and aquatics center, residents can sign up for balance, chair aerobics, and Arthritis Aquatics classes--just to name a few. The community's walking paths, pickleball court, resident-managed garden, and woodshop are always bustling with activity.

Yet another avenue for socialization is dining at the eight on-campus restaurants, where meals are prepared to order by skilled chefs.

"It's fun trying out all the restaurants and getting to know the students who serve us in the dining rooms," Tommie says. "They bring such a vibrance to the community!"

And Highland Springs' convenient location in North Dallas gives residents the chance to experience cultural activities and entertainment in the nearby area.

A vibrant lifestyle

For Tommie and Johannes, Highland Springs' activities and amenities allow them to care for their overall well-being, pursue their interests, and--most importantly--foster new connections.

"The big plus for us is the medical center, which is right down the hall from our residence," Tommie says. "We love our doctors, who actually take the time to get to know you and don't rush you out of the exam room."

She continues, "Although many people we meet come from different backgrounds and professions, we share the title 'retired,' which provides the basis for new relationships. We love our new home and community!"

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing an engaging retirement lifestyle.

By Susan Ingram