Charlestown Residents Enjoy a Fresh Focus on Well-Being

Residents at Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., have convenient access to industry-leading amenities that are designed to benefit their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Among these residents is Jean Williamson, who expanded the community's long list of wellness offerings by starting a yoga class soon after she moved to Charlestown in 2021. 

"I teach Hatha yoga, which is based on building strength and focusing on breath," says Jean. "All of my classes focus on relaxing, stretching, core strength, and balance. It encompasses all the things we need to be the best we can be!" 

Like Jean, Charlestown has a holistic approach to well-being. 

"It's important to recognize that staying healthy in retirement isn't just physical--it's emotional and social too," says Teresa Reymann-Curran, the community's fitness manager. "Charlestown embraces all aspects of wellness. From awareness and education to classes and programs, so much of our identity as a community is connected to well-being."

Fitness for everyone

Jean was introduced to yoga over 20 years ago while working as a nurse, and she began teaching it in 2012. 

"I organized the current class at Charlestown in hopes of helping others stay healthy," she explains. "I teach it twice a week."

Recognizing that everyone joins the class at different ability levels, Jean happily adapts certain stretches and poses to ensure that everyone can reach their goals. 

"Residents who may not be able to do regular yoga can still participate," says Jean. "There are people who come to class for the first time and they are worried that they aren't flexible or that they may have issues that restrict them, but if they stick with it, they see a difference. Many people come back to me and say, 'This has made such a difference in my life.'" 

Fran Chasse is one of them. Fran had been doing yoga for 13 years, but she took a hiatus when faced with health issues. After meeting Jean and learning about her class, she decided to give it another try. 

"Now that I started doing yoga again, I have more energy! And Jean is so compassionate and helpful," says Fran. "Yoga helps you to relax and turn off the whole outside world."

Resident Mary Perschy, who started walking, exercising in the pool, and participating in a meditation group after her move to Charlestown six years ago, also noticed an improvement in her well-being once she started attending Jean's yoga classes. 

"I like that Jean encourages participants to go at their own pace and do what feels right to them. That resonated with me," says Mary. 

Amenities galore

Reymann-Curran notes that there are plenty of other amenities around campus that contribute to optimal health as well. 

"A swimming pool, restaurants, medical center, and a chapel are all just a short stroll away," she explains. "And because everything is connected via climate-controlled walkways, meeting your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being goals has never been easier."

In fact, 88% of Baby Boomers say that living in a community with amenities, activities, services, and social opportunities right outside your door is a top-tier benefit, according to a recent survey conducted by Edge Research in partnership with Erickson Senior Living. 

"Many seniors who still live in their old houses may find that the social connections they once had dwindle when longtime neighbors and friends move away," adds Reymann-Curran. "At Charlestown, peers and amenities are always around the corner! Staying active and engaging with others release endorphins that help our minds function in a healthy and positive way."

Care and support

In addition to new friends and amenities, residents have the support of expert health care providers, fitness trainers, and pastoral ministries resources.

Full-time physicians--who practice at the on-site medical center--offer same-day and next-day appointments, telehealth appointments, and home visits. Visiting specialists provide additional care. 

"Residents also have access to tools and strategies that encourage resilience," notes Reymann-Curran. "For example, Wellbeats, a new fitness app, allows residents to participate in on-demand and live meditation classes from anywhere." 

'Love it here'

Jean, thankful to live in a community that supports her health and wellness endeavors, utilizes all the amenities and services available to her. 

"I love it here! There are so many activities to get involved in," says Jean. "In addition to teaching yoga, I'm involved with several committees and I love the chapel concert series. I encourage people to move here while you can still enjoy everything."

Invest in your future self at Charlestown. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!