A Fresh Focus on Well-Being at Siena Lakes

February 6, 2024
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In 2019, before construction even began on Siena Lakes, the Erickson Senior Living community in Naples, Fla., Jim Forte visited the Sales Office. Jim and his wife Kathy were looking for a continuing care retirement community where they could maintain their active lifestyle.

"We did our due diligence and visited other retirement communities in Naples before making our final decision," says Kathy, "but Siena Lakes was clearly the front runner from the get-go. It checked every box on our wish list."

Staying fit

On the top of their wish list were fitness amenities and activities. 

"I like walking on campus and exercising in Siena Lakes' fitness center four to five days a week. My fellow 'gym rats' are great people, and we enjoy friendly camaraderie as we go through our routines," says Kathy, who also plays golf three or four times a week.

With industry-leading amenities and activities that are designed to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, Siena Lakes residents like Kathy and Jim find it easier than ever before to maintain their healthy routines.

Worry-free living

Jim, also an avid golfer, cites the couple's maintenance-free apartment home as the reason why he can play almost every day. 

Thanks to the predictable Monthly Service Package, which covers everything from appliance repairs and utilities to a meal plan at on-site restaurants, Jim and Kathy have even more time to stay active and engaged. 

"I'm able to spend most of my time doing what I love," says Jim. "It's my dream retirement!"

Suzy McAllister, sales director, notes that the community's worry-free lifestyle has positively impacted the mental health of many residents. 

"Not having to worry when something breaks--even when a lightbulb needs changing--greatly reduces residents' stress," she explains. "General Services takes care of it all and gives them peace of mind! They get to do whatever they want--head to the fitness center or pool, participate in clubs, or attend lectures--instead of waiting hours or days for a plumber to arrive."

Active and engaged

Like the Fortes, Dick Rogan is always on the links. And when he's not playing a round, you can find him in the fitness center four or five times each week.

"I'd rather work out than take a day off," he says, with a laugh. "I've been committed to fitness since high school. My energy level and my ability to deal with stress is significantly better when I work out than if I don't." 

Because all buildings on campus are connected via climate-controlled walkways, Dick's stroll to the fitness center from the two-bedroom, two-bath apartment home he shares with his wife Jo is the perfect warmup. 

"And the walk back is the perfect cooldown!" he says. 

Although Jo isn't one to pick up a club, she is a serious bridge player. "I tell people, 'She doesn't play golf, and I don't play bridge. That's what keeps our marriage together!'" Dick laughs.

The one thing they both love is socializing--a lot. As resident ambassadors, they reach out to newcomers to welcome them and take them out to dinner. They also get together often with their neighbors and have organized parties for residents on their floor.

Having a variety of clubs, groups, and events to choose from on campus also makes it easy for the Rogans to make new connections. 

"There's a terrific amount of activity, and everything is so well-done and well-orchestrated," says Dick. "There's so much to do!"

Investing in well-being

To further support residents in their wellness journeys, Erickson Senior Living is investing $500 million in upgrades to its communities, focusing on amenities that enhance physical, mental, and spiritual health. 

At Siena Lakes, people are already enjoying the improvements to the dog park and bocce courts.

"Bocce is very popular here," says McAllister. "People love it! They are out in the beautiful weather, getting a bit of exercise, and socializing with old and new friends alike. We're lucky to have such nice, welcoming residents."

Kathy couldn't agree more. "What really makes Siena Lakes so special are the people," she says. 

"From organized activities to meals and regular entertainment, there are so many ways to interact with other residents. It's very much a family atmosphere here." 

She continues, "This is much more than just a place to live; it's a lifestyle. The fact that Siena Lakes focuses on the 'whole person'--physical, mental, and social well-being--is a real plus. Our move here was fortuitous!"

To learn more about the benefits of moving to a maintenance-free community, request more information today. 

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