Eagle's Trace Residents Enjoy a Fresh Focus on Well-Being

"I love growing pollinator plants in my raised garden bed here," says Meg Scott-Johnson. "It's therapeutic--both physically and mentally."

As a resident of Eagle's Trace, an Erickson Senior Living community in West Houston, Tex., Meg has convenient access to industry-leading amenities that are designed to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

With a fitness center, swimming pool, and healthy dining options at on-site restaurants, there's no shortage of ways for residents to meet their wellness goals.

"And three mornings each week, I'm in the fitness room for a 45-minute Morning Mobility class," she says. "There are so many ways to stay active and engaged at Eagle's Trace!"

Investing in well-being

More than ever before, retirees like Meg are passionate about taking steps to maintain their healthy lifestyles.

To support residents across the country in this endeavor, Erickson Senior Living is investing $500 million in upgrades to its communities, focusing on amenities and activities that support physical, mental, and spiritual health.  

At Eagle's Trace, a part of Erickson Senior Living's investment went toward renovating the meditation room, providing residents with a calming, private space for individuals or small groups to gather and pray. Outside, funds were used to create a butterfly garden and add a new fountain in the Rose Garden.

"The butterfly garden is located near the gazebo. Now, it's a yearly communitywide project where residents watch caterpillars grow from eggs to butterflies," explains Resident Life Director Kristen Kennedy. "And with the new fountain, the Rose Garden has become a serene space where residents can sit and listen to the sounds of nature and the water."

Meg loves stopping by these new features during her daily walks around campus.

"This is a 72-acre campus, and there are walkways everywhere," she notes. "Most days, I walk a mile and a half."

Fitness for all

Meg, originally drawn to the community's amenities and active lifestyle, was also impressed with the support that was offered to couples with varying needs.

After moving to Eagle's Trace in April 2021 with her husband Richard, Meg did some research on the community's Rock Steady Boxing classes.

"Richard has Parkinson's, and Rock Steady Boxing is designed for people diagnosed with Parkinson's. I thought it would be a great opportunity," says Meg. "The 'steady' part of Rock Steady Boxing is having a spouse, friend, or caregiver with them, to aid in steadiness. So, the class is an activity we do together."

The couple attends the boxing class twice each week.

"The group provides a real sense of community, and the fitness manager, Carlos, is amazing. He's trained in Rock Steady Boxing," she explains. "It's such a beneficial class to have here."

In addition, the physical therapy department at Bayou Vista, the continuing care neighborhood on campus, has physical therapists that are trained in LSVT BIG for Parkinson's, a worldwide program that provides treatment and therapy with a focus on small and large motor tasks to improve participants' independence.

"Having these resources has increased our sense of well-being and security," Meg says.

Care and support

"Healthy living is at the core of life at Eagle's Trace, and that includes mental health," explains Kennedy. "If a resident decides that they would like some counseling, we refer them to the licensed clinical social worker at our medical center. Her counseling is built into residents' insurance, so it's an easy way for residents to get the support they want--right here in the community."

She continues, "We also offer some support groups for caregivers, as we know it can be a taxing job."

Meg appreciates having these caregiver support groups, in addition to the Caring Friends program that was started by the community's Health and Wellness Committee.

"All of the Caring Friends are trained in confidential listening," Meg explains. "When I meet with my Caring Friend, I know I can share whatever is on my mind. She knows how to listen and respond well. It's a wonderful resource to have as a caregiver."

Meg, thankful for her new home that values all facets of well-being, is looking forward to making even more like-minded friends--especially in the community garden, where neighbors are growing an abundance of herbs, flowers, and veggies.

Making new friends

"When I'm walking around campus, everybody's saying, 'Good day! How are you?' We always greet one another as we're passing, even if we don't know each other," she says.

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