Seabrook's Live the Life Program: Experience Lifestyle on Campus

When Tom's River, N.J., couple Steve and Sherri Pollock began researching retirement communities in New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, they quickly focused their attentions on Seabrook, an Erickson Senior Living community in Tinton Falls, N.J., just 20 miles from their house.

They soon joined the community's Priority List, gaining access to the program's many perks--right of first refusal on their desired apartment home, invitations to informational and social events, and updates on community happenings.

Priority List members also get the exclusive opportunity to stay in a Live the Life suite, experiencing the vibrant Seabrook lifestyle firsthand. They are encouraged to join residents for dinner, relax in the spa, see a show, work out in the fitness center, and check out activities that interest them.

"Our Live the Life stay made all the difference in our decision to move to Seabrook," says Steve. "Everything about Seabrook is exactly what we were looking for."

A day in the life

During their stay, the Pollocks enjoyed meeting several couples and dining together at the Essex Pub, Tides, and Princeton restaurants. The residents they met shared what they like best about the community, including the more than 100 resident-run clubs and activities and world-class amenities such as the fully equipped fitness center, indoor swimming pool with lap lanes, and modern theater.

"Hearing how satisfied the residents are with all aspects of life at Seabrook was important to us," says Steve.

The Pollocks were also given a customized itinerary based on their interests, hobbies, and preferences.

"We provide our Life the Life guests the opportunity to experience life at Seabrook just as it will be should they choose to move here," says Seabrook Executive Director Jen McNamara.

"Their personal itinerary includes time with residents with similar interests, while also providing time to relax and walk around on their own. They can choose activities like a woodshop group meeting or bridge game. Some participate, while others opt to stop by and observe."

Exploring their interests

During their stay, the Pollocks attended a movie at Seabrook's onsite theater and observed fitness classes and card games. Steve also enjoyed meeting with members of the fitness center staff, discussing his 40-year history with a dedicated exercise program.

Sherri focused her attention on Seabrook's apartment homes, exploring furniture arrangement options and the possibility of planting flowers and vegetables. She also learned about Seabrook's sewing groups and mah-jongg games.

The Pollocks were especially impressed by the friendliness of the residents and staff members they encountered during their Live the Life stay and subsequent visits to the community.

"Every time we came to Seabrook, we got a warm and fuzzy feeling," says Sherri. "Everyone was so friendly, kind, and accommodating."

Like the Pollocks, Elaine McConnell also considered Seabrook while researching her senior living options. Before moving from her large house in Beachwood, N.J., she learned a lot from the two nights she spent in a Live the Life suite.

"I found the residents and staff enthusiastic and forthcoming with information during my stay," says Elaine. "I credit the residents I met with influencing my decision to move to Seabrook."

Staff members introduced Elaine with Marge Kincaid, and they hit it off immediately. "She is terrific," says Elaine. "Marge gave me her phone number and urged me to call anytime. Even now that I live here, she continues to go out of her way to help me feel welcome."

Elaine appreciated the variety of activities she attended. "The next day," she adds, "I joined another resident for lunch and a lecture on old Irish history."

Peace of mind

In addition to the plethora of activities and friendly neighbors, Steve, Sherri, and Elaine appreciate the peace of mind that comes with moving to a continuing care retirement community, which features a continuum of health care on the same campus.

"I have had health issues in the past, and my sister, who lives in Pennsylvania, came and helped me out," notes Elaine. "I have no family in New Jersey, so access to care was a big factor. I knew I needed to be proactive about my health and my future. I also wanted to move to the community while I was still young and active and able to enjoy all of the perks of independent living."

Steve and Sherri spent years caring for their fathers, both of whom took ill at young ages, limiting their enjoyment in their later years. Steve and Sherri retired early to ensure they had plenty of time to travel and enjoy all that Seabrook has to offer.

"We knew we wanted to make arrangements so that no one else will have to make decisions about our health care," says Steve. "This way, we can live our life now, the way we want--safely, comfortably, and fully."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

Written by Linda Esterson