From Hesitant First Steps to Visible Progress
Some residents walk into the fitness center at GreenFields of Geneva unsure they belong there. A few weeks later, they are walking farther, lifting more, and noticing they feel stronger getting through daily life.
At GreenFields of Geneva senior living community, wellness is not a program tucked into a schedule. It is part of daily life, shaped by opportunity, encouragement, and a team that believes movement and connection are essential at every age.
Leadership in Wellness Programming
That approach is guided in large part by Michael Zlotnick, the health and fitness specialist at GreenFields. Michael oversees wellness programming and fitness operations throughout the community, helping residents discover what they are capable of at every stage of aging.
The fitness center itself primarily serves independent living and assisted living residents. For those in memory care and skilled nursing, Michael and his team bring equipment and programming directly to the residents so they can participate in a way that is accessible and supportive.
A Young Professional with a Long View of Public Health
Now 26 years old, Michael has been part of GreenFields for five years. With a degree in kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, he originally expected a clinical path, but an opening at GreenFields shifted his direction.
“I look forward to coming to work every day,” he said.
He is also pursuing graduate studies in public health and an MBA at Elmhurst University, where he is halfway through a three-year program. As part of his training, he will complete an internship at GreenFields under the healthcare administrator, including development of a sundowning program for Reflections Memory Care.
Michael’s long-term goal is to use public health principles to improve wellness at a broader population level. For now, he focuses on daily impact, working closely with residents through both structured programming and informal connection.
Movement That Supports Independence
His primary responsibility is keeping residents active, engaged, and supported in maintaining independence. That work takes shape through fitness classes, personal training, and consistent presence in the fitness center and across the community.
“In order to have a thriving community, we need residents to be physically and mentally active,” he said. “They want to travel, see family, and enjoy life. I help them stay strong enough to do that.”
Growing Participation and Changing Perceptions
Participation in wellness programming continues to grow, with more than half of residents engaging in some form of fitness activity. Increasingly, new residents arrive with previous exercise habits they want to maintain. Others are trying structured movement for the first time.
Michael said the word ‘exercise’ can feel intimidating at first, often tied to outdated memories or misconceptions. That perception often shifts quickly as the residents find working out to be fun and effective.
“A lot of people come in and say they wish they had started sooner,” he said.
Real Life Results That Matter
Progress shows up in practical, meaningful ways. Residents notice improved balance, increased strength, and greater ease with daily activities. Families often see it too, from longer walks to easier mobility and more confidence in movement.
For Michael, those outcomes matter, but so does the connection built along the way. The fitness center is as much a social space as it is a place to train.
“We hang out with the residents, we talk, we hear each other’s stories,” he said. “That socialization is just as important.”
Programming for Every Ability and Interest
Programming is designed to meet a wide range of abilities and interests. Offerings include balance training, seated stretching, resistance work, tai chi, circuit training, and flexibility focused classes. Guest instructors, including line dancing teachers, add variety and energy.
Residents also participate in outings such as Topgolf and Pinstripes for bowling and bocce ball. In warmer months, activities move outdoors for frisbee golf, walking games, and time spent enjoying the campus grounds.
Golf is especially popular due to nearby courses. Michael develops seasonal strength and mobility programs to help residents stay active in the sport they enjoy.
Adaptive Equipment and Creative Training Approaches
The fitness center is equipped with adaptive and innovative tools, including NuStep machines, a stationary bike with virtual scenic routes and interactive features, and an arm ergometer for upper body focused exercise. These options allow residents with different abilities to participate safely and consistently.
Creativity plays a major role in programming. Exercises are modified to support comfort and safety, such as using resistance tools instead of traditional floor-based movements when needed. Michael works closely with Kim Baumgartner, who shares a similar role part time, to continually adapt and expand programming options.
“There is something for everyone,” he said. “We just find different ways to do it. She’s taught me to think outside the box.”
Special Events and Community Engagement
Michael said one of the most rewarding parts of his role is seeing residents build strength and confidence over time.
“Sometimes it is gradual,” he said. “But when they stick with it, they see the difference. That is the best part.”
He also values the relationships that form through daily interaction.
“I know I am making a difference, but they make a difference in my life too,” he said. “We learn from each other.”
A Culture of Wellness in Motion
At GreenFields of Geneva, wellness is not defined by a single program. It is built through consistency, adaptability, and a shared belief that movement can continue to enrich life at every stage.
GreenFields of Geneva
GreenFields of Geneva is a luxury senior living community providing an active retirement lifestyle, beautiful views, and a close-knit community. As a Life Plan Community, formerly known as a CCRC, GreenFields offers a complete continuum of care including independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. GreenFields of Geneva is owned by Lifespace Communities, a not-for-profit organization with nearly 50 years of experience in senior living. For additional information, call 630-578-7969 or visit www.GreenFieldsGeneva.org
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Media Contact: Wendy Foster | [email protected]