Noah says Erickson Health, Erickson’s comprehensive array of health care professionals, services, and information that helps residents live better, is one of the key benefits to living at Greenspring. “In addition to the fitness center and pool, we have lectures, videos, classes in yoga and exercise, and many different places to walk. It’s a wonderful environment in which to keep healthy.”
Because the Viva! program is based on the premise that it is never too late to make healthy lifestyle choices, participants receive three- and six-month follow up appointments, allowing Viva! program coordinators to detect small changes in health status that may not be detected elsewhere.
“The Greenspring communityhas responded enthusiastically to Viva!,” says Boorom. “It’s become clear that participants desire to be tuned in to the most innovative approaches to aging available at Greenspring, and many were already very interested in preventive health and wellness.”
To Noah, “It is a very worthwhile program.”
Expanding outward
Exhilarated by the response and success of the Viva! program at Greenspring, the decision was made to encourage others to enjoy the benefits of this innovative program. As a result, invitations to participate in the screenings were sent to future community members—members of the priority list.
Priority list members Anne Haulsee and her husband Tom Boyle both participated in the program. “I just love the whole Erickson Health program, and I think it is terrific that the Viva! program is offered to priority list members,” says Haulsee. “It not only makes us aware of how we are changing physically, but also puts us in touch with the Erickson Health resources that will help us age gracefully.”
Since the program’s debut, vision, useful field of view, and driving assessments have been added to the program.
“It’s our number one goal to put our community members in touch with the knowledge and resources that will enable them to live healthier lives,” says Phillips.
As the Viva! program moves into its second year, it’s apparent that Viva! will continue to add a joie de vivre to all the lives it touches.