Devonshire, the Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has expanded its fitness offerings with a personalized approach to senior wellness. Fitness specialists Deborah Mazda and Remy Harwood provide one-on-one training and lead group classes specifically designed for older adults, addressing the critical need for maintaining strength and mobility as people age.
Mazda, who holds a master's degree in physiology and sports psychology with 40 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of combating muscle loss in seniors. "I'm dedicated to helping seniors get strong," says Mazda. "As we age, we lose muscle mass, so my goal is to keep everyone as strong as possible. Healthy seniors are happy seniors!" The community's state-of-the-art fitness center serves as the foundation for these wellness programs, equipped with top-notch strength and cardio machines along with free weights, balls, and bands.
The personalized approach begins with comprehensive orientations for new members, where Mazda and Harwood assess individual abilities and goals before recommending tailored exercise plans. "Well-being is not a one-size-fits-all program! Instead, we recommend activities and classes that meet people where they are in their fitness journey," Mazda explains. This methodology has proven effective in keeping community members engaged and motivated, with resident Toni Goodman noting that the staff provides both technical guidance and moral support.
Group classes have become particularly popular, ranging from fast-paced cardiovascular and strength training to yoga and stretching. The newest addition, Pilates Circles, combines yoga, Pilates, and balance work while using the Pilates ring seated in a chair. Goodman, who participates in multiple classes weekly, describes the experience: "When I finish, I feel ten feet tall–loose and limber, ready to start the day. It's amazing. The class allows me to really stretch my muscles, especially my back and quads."
The program's impact extends beyond physical benefits, with residents reporting improved overall quality of life. Goodman, who moved to Devonshire with serious injuries, credits the fitness program with enabling her to participate fully in social activities, including recently dancing at a dinner party for the first time in years. The community also offers aquatic classes, Zumba, and is developing a Rock Steady Boxing class specifically designed for residents with Parkinson's disease, using evidence-based exercise curricula to impact symptoms and slow disease progression.
Mazda observes significant mindset shifts among participants: "So many people who used to dislike exercising change their minds after visiting the fitness center or participating in the classes offered here. Not only do they begin to feel better and gain more energy, but they are healthier and happier!" The success of Devonshire's approach demonstrates how targeted fitness programs can transform senior living experiences, addressing both physical health and social engagement needs simultaneously.
For HR vendors, this trend signals a growing market for senior-focused wellness solutions. As the population ages, communities like Devonshire are investing in personalized fitness programs that require specialized equipment, training, and technology. Vendors offering evidence-based exercise curricula, adaptive fitness equipment, or staff training programs could find opportunities in this expanding segment. The emphasis on combating muscle loss and improving mobility aligns with broader healthcare cost reduction goals, making senior wellness a priority for both providers and payers.
