Residents of The Watermark at Vistawilla take to the sky in Aerophile

The Watermark at Vistawilla, an assisted living and memory care community in Winter Springs, is finding new ways to promote well-being. The community, which regularly plans unique outings for residents, visited Disney Springs on April 14, where residents rode Aerophile – the world’s largest tethered helium balloon.

The outing was featured on Good Morning Orlando, with Fox 35 reporter Randi Hildreth going up in the air with residents and interviewing them during the experience.

Hot air ballooning, similar to the Aerophile experience, has been shown to have numerous health benefits. These include increased blood oxygen levels, a boost in serotonin, and a general sense of well-being. For seniors, the relaxation that comes with ascending into the sky can boost the immune system, improve memory and judgement, and reduce stress and depression.

“At Watermark, our goal is to create an environment where residents thrive,” said Patricia Wallace, Executive Director of The Watermark at Vistawilla. “While Aerophile is a fun outing, it’s also an opportunity for residents to connect with themselves and each other and provides a unique way to promote relaxation and well-being.”

Watermark Retirement Communities, which owns and operates The Watermark at Vistawilla and more than 70 other communities nationwide, places a strong emphasis on resident well-being. Each program, event, outing and experience, is created with the four pillars of well-being in mind – mind, body, spirit, and community – then tailored to the individual resident.

In addition to local outings, residents can attend Extraordinary Outings throughout the state. They can also learn new skills and share their passions with fellow residents through Watermark University classes.

“Well-being goes beyond your physical health,” said Wallace. “It’s about being connected to yourself and the world around you. I can’t think of a better way to be reminded of our place in this world than up in the sky above the city of Orlando.”

The Aerophile balloon – the Aéro30 – was custom-built for Disney by Paris-based company Aérophile S.A. It is filled with 210,000 cubic feet of helium and ascends to heights of up to 400 feet with up to 29 passengers and one certified pilot. From the top, passengers can see panoramic views up to 10 miles away.

“It’s not every day that you’re able to ascend into the sky and see the city from a bird’s eye view,” said Kimberly Dike, Community Life Director at The Watermark at Vistawilla. “We’re thrilled to give our residents this opportunity.”

About The Watermark at Vistawilla

Located in Winter Springs, Fla., The Watermark at Vistawilla is an 87-apartment assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 E State Rd 434. Differentiators of the community include certified associates, continuous care and hands-on educational programming. Owned and managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Watermark at Vistawilla is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive. For more information, visit vistawilla.watermarkcommunities.com.