Residents Appreciate the Outdoor Amenities at Eagle's Trace

With convenient access to open green spaces and an array of outdoor amenities, it's no wonder residents of Eagle's Trace, an Erickson Senior Living community in West Houston, Tex., are soaking up the sun this season.

"Residents deserve more than just a place to live; they deserve a community that inspires vibrant living," says Resident Services Manager Caitlin Hiett. "Our amenity-rich, 72-acre campus gives them the freedom to stay active, connect with nature, and enjoy meaningful social interactions. It's about creating an environment where independence, wellness, and joy are evident every day!"

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Green spaces

When Don and Mary Rodrigue were exploring their senior living options, they were looking for a large retirement community with stunning scenery, a range of amenities, and ways to get involved.

Eagle's Trace easily checked those boxes.

"The campus size was a major consideration," Don says. "We looked at several other places, but none of them came close to Eagle's Trace. The smaller size of the other communities did not allow for the scale of amenities afforded here."

Don and Mary chose a fifth floor residence with an expansive view. "It is really enjoyable to see this huge green space from our balcony," he notes.

In addition, Eagle's Trace was the only community they visited with an outdoor pickleball court. Don, a lifelong racquet- and paddle-sport enthusiast, had heard lots of good things about the game and was eager to try it.

"I felt confident I would enjoy it after hearing friends' stories," Don says. "I now play pickleball five to six days a week and compete in senior tournaments--and have brought home several medals along the way."

He adds, "Mary has also taken up pickleball and now plays three to four times a week. It can be

quite addictive!"

Out and about

If they're not at the pickleball court, you can most likely find the Rodrigues at another one of the community's outdoor amenities.

"I enjoy bocce, shuffleboard, and the putting green," says Don, noting that he and his neighbors participate in many other outdoor endeavors, including biking, tai chi, and fishing in Lake Aquila, the community's six-acre lake.

Many residents find Lake Aquila to be a great destination for walking, too.

"We appreciate being able to take long, outdoor walks," Don says. "Walking around Lake Aquila is like walking through a well-manicured golf course or city park with many birds, trees, shrubs, flowers, and water features. Sitting on a shaded bench overlooking the lake while families of geese, ducks, and turtles go about their daily activities provides a nice, relaxing connection with nature."

Gardening is another one of Don's favorite outdoor pastimes.

Prioritizing well-being

Hiett and members of her team plan engaging outdoor events throughout the year, providing even more opportunities for residents to enjoy fresh air with friends and neighbors.

"Outdoor events remain a cornerstone of vibrant living here. We host social engagements featuring music and refreshments, often in partnership with the community's entertainment committee," says Hiett. "With so many outdoor activities just steps from residents' homes, wellness becomes a natural part of life."

It's no secret that staying active outdoors offers a host of short- and long-term benefits--for both physical and mental health. Benefits include better sleep, less anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improved brain and heart function, among others.

"And with Hummingbird Square--the new residence building--opening this year, residents will enjoy an exceptional new venue to keep the good times going," says Hiett.

'Closer to nature'

For Don and Mary, choosing Eagle's Trace meant pursuing a retirement filled with fun and fitness in the great outdoors--a stark contrast to their previous lifestyle.

"Having worked as an engineer at a desk job, it's great to spend much more time outdoors and closer to nature," Don says. "Spending more time in touch with nature is very therapeutic, as it relieves stress in one's life."

He adds, "All the activities we're involved in now allow for significant social interaction. We both have made many new friends!"

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

By Susan Ingram