'Why We Chose a Vibrant Retirement at Tallgrass Creek'

With dozens of clubs and activities, six on-campus restaurants, and two well-equipped fitness centers, Tallgrass Creek residents have everything they need to enjoy a vibrant, engaging lifestyle. 

But those are just a few of the reasons why Jan and Ron Zelch decided to move to the Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., a year ago.

"We'd heard good things about Tallgrass Creek, but there's so much more here than we knew," says Jan. "It's a great place to live!" 

Recently, the Tribune caught up with the couple to learn more about why they chose Tallgrass Creek and how they're making the most of their new lifestyle. 

Tribune: What led you to consider Tallgrass Creek?

Ron: We lived in a four-bedroom house for 20 years. Needless to say, we were pretty tired of all the upkeep, both inside and out. 

We knew that Tallgrass Creek's apartment homes were maintenance-free, so we decided to look into it. We compared the costs of living in our house to what's included at Tallgrass Creek, and we found it to be quite affordable. 

We also appreciated that we wouldn't have to pay for additional levels of care up front--it's on a pay-as-needed basis. 

Jan: We visited some really nice places, but we kept coming back to Tallgrass. There was always something going on, and the atmosphere with both staff and residents was very upbeat and welcoming. 

Tribune: Did you utilize any realty and moving services?

Ron: When we made the decision that Tallgrass Creek was the place for us, we got six offers on our house and it sold in two days--above asking price. So the timing was perfect. Nancy Worthington, the community's planning and moving consultant, recommended a moving company, and we're very glad we reached out to them. They were so careful and made the job a lot easier.

Jan: While planning our move, we were able to pick out paint, carpet, and flooring--plus a few other extras we wanted in our new place. The Custom Interiors team was great. Thanks to their help, our two-bedroom, two-bath apartment home is stunning! I love having a balcony that overlooks the expansive courtyard.

Tribune: How have you gotten involved on campus?

Jan: We knew that there were 90 different clubs to choose from, but we had no idea about the activities on campus. We've enjoyed attending concerts, dinner dances, and interesting lectures. I joined the quilting group, and we both belong to the new residents' club. 

Ron and I also visit the fitness center to use the equipment--having it here on-site is so convenient. We've also done some personal training with Fitness Specialist Zane Zismer. He's very good!

Ron: I was part owner of my family's bakery business and taught commercial baking for 24 years, so I like being on the dining committee of the Resident Advisory Council. Dining Services Director Tom Barnett, the chefs, and the dining managers meet regularly with the committee, which is very impressive. 

I also joined the woodworkers group and the garden club. I'm planning to grow vegetables and flowers in the community garden. 

Tribune: Speaking of dining, how is the food at Tallgrass Creek?

Jan: Amazing! All of the meals are great. The menus rotate and every dish is made-to-order. 

We love having multiple restaurants to choose from, and you can also have meals delivered to your apartment home. Dining out is a great way to connect with your friends and neighbors. 

Tribune: It sounds like moving to Tallgrass Creek was a good decision?

Jan: Absolutely. We feel like moving here was a gift to our kids. We downsized, sold the house, and moved to a place we love and will be taken care of if anything happens. It wasn't a good decision; it was a great decision!   

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