The Best Ways to Learn About Senior Living

When construction began on Siena Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community in Naples, Fla., longtime area residents Jean and Terry Butz were intrigued. When buildings started going up, they received an invitation to attend a presentation at the Sales Center.

"We decided to take a look, so we went to the talk. The [sales team] gave a terrific overview of what life is like at an Erickson Senior Living community," says Terry. "We were so impressed that we joined the Priority List."

In addition to saving their spot in line for a residence, Priority List members receive invitations to exclusive educational and social events on campus.

"There are lots of ways for prospective residents to explore Siena Lakes," says Sales Director Suzy McAllister. "Folks can also request a brochure, schedule a tour, or come in for a personal appointment. We want to give folks all the information they need to help them determine whether Siena Lakes is the right fit for them."

Personalized approach

Those interested in learning more about Siena Lakes are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a sales team member and complete a personal tour of campus.

"During the initial appointment we like to learn about interests, activities, priorities, motivations and more," says McAllister. "Then, we customize your tour of the community based on your interests."

For example, if you're interested in physical activities, your tour may feature more time exploring the fitness center, pool, and exercise groups. If you're drawn to classes or creative pursuits, you'll see the Educational Endeavors and the Life Enrichment rooms.

Prospective residents can also attend introductory presentations, just like Jean and Terry did.

"The salespeople answered all the questions we had," says Jean.

"They were very good about giving us information on anything we wanted to know," Terry adds.

Priority List perks

After their initial visit, Jean and Terry joined the Priority List and signed up to attend events to further explore the community's offerings. They especially appreciated the opportunity to tour a number of homes with fellow members.

"When we viewed the floor plans, it really gave us a good idea of what was available and what we liked. That was great," says Jean. "In addition to [a member of the sales team], a resident came with us on the tour."

Terry adds, "This way, you could ask questions of the resident about what they liked about their home. You could also ask more about the Erickson corporation, so you had a really good overview from both perspectives."

After touring the homes, they went to dinner at an on-campus restaurant as a group.

"One of the best ways for visitors to get information on what it's like to live here is to spend time and talk with residents," says McAllister.

"The food was great, and we got to socialize with a lot of different people," says Jean.

"Our events are very individualized and on a small-scale basis," adds McAllister. "We truly base them on people's needs and wants."

A knowledgeable team

Siena Lakes' sales team members are knowledgeable about everything from the community's pricing structure to the move-in process. They are the trusted experts for future residents.

"Our mission is to help people live better lives. So, when we meet with folks, we want to make sure that they're going to thrive when they move here," says McAllister. "There's never any pressure to make a decision! However long it takes for them to get comfortable works for us."

Terry liked that approach. "The whole sales team was phenomenal. They were informative, friendly, and outgoing. They bent over backwards for us. They never pressured us."

Spreading the love

Once Jean and Terry became residents in 2023, they began paying it forward. They've invited many friends who are interested in the community to have dinner with them and see their gorgeous two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home.

"We love it at Siena Lakes!" says Terry.

Jean adds, "We're very happy here!"

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Michele Wojciechowski