Experiencing Life at Eagle's Trace

Although Ted and Diane Reese loved their single-family house in West Houston, Tex., they knew it was time to start exploring their retirement living options.

"We knew that maintaining a house would eventually become more demanding," says Diane. "We were getting mailings from Eagle's Trace, so we decided to see what it's all about."

Their visit to the Erickson Senior Living community in West Houston, Tex., was a positive experience. "It was so nice!" recalls Diane. "Everybody was smiling; everybody was happy. We were looking at each other saying, 'Can it be this good?'"

But it was their overnight Live the Life stay that really helped them envision living at the community--and make the decision to move in.

Senior Sales Associate Marianna Purcell, who coordinated the Reeses' stay, notes that the Live the Life program has the same impact on many prospective residents. "Guests get the complete picture of life here when they stay overnight," she says.

A personalized stay

Priority List members have the unique opportunity to sign up for the Live the Life program. Once a member shows interest in the program, Purcell reaches out to schedule their stay and help plan their itinerary.

"Members are invited to come and stay for two nights in a furnished guest suite, and all meals are included--breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even cocktails!" says Purcell. "They can dine at any of the nine on-site restaurants with current residents."

She continues, "We also provide everything they need for a comfortable stay, including towels, toiletries, a hair dryer, iron, and more. I ask about their preferred snacks and beverages ahead of time, so I can stock the suite in advance."

When planning a guest's itinerary, Purcell asks if they'd like to participate in on-campus activities and events, meet and chat with current residents, or have free time to walk around the community--or a blend of all three.

Purcell also pairs guests with resident ambassadors who share similar interests. Many visitors form lasting friendships with the resident ambassadors they meet during their stay.

"I want every guest to feel like this is their time to discover what Eagle's Trace is all about," Purcell says. "I try to provide everything they need to have an enjoyable and informative 'staycation.'"

Carefree living

"The first time we signed up for Live the Life, we stayed two nights in the middle of the week," Ted recalls. "But I also wanted to see what the community was like on the weekend. So, we came back for another stay."

They found that you can be as busy as you'd like, no matter the day. With dozens of clubs and activities to choose from, it's easy to maintain a full calendar with friends. But if you'd prefer to relax with a good book in your residence, you can do that too.

For the Reeses, dining in the community's restaurants and talking with current residents were the highlights of both stays. Ted appreciated the opportunities to ask candid questions about daily life and hear a variety of perspectives. The consistent, positive responses reinforced the couple's impression that moving to Eagle's Trace was a sound decision.

Ted and Diane also gained some peace of mind for the future. "All the things you worry about in your house, like repairs and upkeep, are missing here," says Ted, pointing to the community's maintenance-free homes.

Home sweet home

A tour during one of their stays stands out in Ted's memory.

"We opened the door to a home with the Mission floor plan," Ted recalls. "We walked in and looked at each other, saying, 'Wow, there's a view! There's the lake. There's a balcony."

He continues, "They showed us a residence that perfectly fit our criteria. That's what encouraged us to prepare for a move."

The right decision

Reflecting on their journey to Eagle's Trace, Diane notes that signing up for a Live the Life stay was wise--and so insightful.

"Everything seemed so right when we explored Eagle's Trace. And, it has absolutely turned out that way," says Diane.

"If you're interested in a Live the Life stay, among other perks, I encourage you to join the Priority List," says Purcell. "It's the best way to see what Eagle's Trace is all about!"

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