Living Life Fully, Every Day at Evergreen Place
Lee Muhlnickel has never been one to sit on the sidelines.
Years ago, she checked an item off her bucket list with the help of the Greencroft Communities Foundation Resident Dream Program by taking a motorcycle ride through Goshen with the city's chief of police. Friends gathered to watch her climb aboard, and according to Lee, there was even a brief debate about who would be driving.
"I sat down on the motorcycle seat, and he said, 'No way. That's my seat,'" Lee recalled with a laugh.
That adventurous spirit hasn't changed.
Today, Lee calls Evergreen Place home, where she continues to stay active, involved and connected to the people around her.
When Lee moved to assisted living nearly three years ago, it wasn't a decision she made lightly. After more than two decades of independent living at Greencroft Goshen’s Dogwood Court, macular degeneration made it difficult for her to continue driving, prompting her to consider what came next.
"It was a letdown that I had to move because I've always been independent," Lee said. "I've taken care of myself all my life."
While the move came with mixed emotions, Lee quickly discovered that assisted living wasn't about giving up independence. Instead, it opened the door to new friendships, activities and opportunities to stay involved.
These days, she stays busy with exercise classes, daily walks and visits with friends in the coffee shop. One of her favorite activities is exercise class with Leanne.
"When you do something, she tells you why you're doing it and what it's good for," Lee said. "At my age, I'm very thankful that I can do all that I am."
Staying active has always been part of Lee's personality. She rides the stationary bicycle every day and proudly describes herself as a fast walker. While she no longer participates in every activity, she's often found encouraging others from the sidelines.
"I tell them I don't do the sports, but I am their cheerleader," she said. "I used to be a cheerleader in high school."
One of the things that continues to impress Lee most is the caring staff.
"What amazes me so much is that they remember your name right away," she said. "Everybody remembers your name."
Over time, those daily interactions have become meaningful relationships. Some team members feel more like extended family, bringing laughter and encouragement to her day.
Lee has also found purpose in helping shape life at Evergreen Place. As a member of the resident board, she enjoys listening to fellow residents and sharing ideas that could enhance the community experience.
"I listen and see what people would like," she said. "I like helping make things better."
For Lee, one of the greatest benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to stay connected. She encourages anyone considering assisted living to visit, ask questions and spend time getting to know the people who call Evergreen Place home.
"I highly recommend Evergreen, especially for those who are still active and want to get involved with people," she said. "You don't get lonesome here if you choose to participate."
Whether she's exercising, advocating for fellow residents or sharing stories with friends over coffee, Lee has found that assisted living hasn't slowed her down. It has simply given her a new place to thrive.
To learn more about assisted living at Greencroft Goshen, call 574-537-4059.