How Brenda Haley’s “Yes” led to ease, beauty, and connection
For many older adults, the idea of leaving a long-time home feels daunting—until the moment something clicks. For Touchmark at Emerald Lake resident Brenda Haley, that moment came quickly.
“I made up my mind in one week,” she says. “I surprised my three daughters by saying, ‘I’m moving,’ and they all said, ‘Yay, Mom!’ I have loved it. To me, it’s freedom. It’s freedom from that house and everything with it—the hailstorms and the roof, the swimming pool. It was so much upkeep, and I don’t have that anymore.”
Brenda’s story is becoming more common as retirees search for a lifestyle that brings ease, independence, and genuine joy. And for many, that path leads straight to Touchmark at Emerald Lake, McKinney’s premier full-service retirement community.
Life on the Lake: A Retirement Setting Unlike Any Other
It didn’t take long for the surroundings to win her over. Perched above a sparkling lake, the community offers scenic calm and natural beauty every day. Touchmark at Emerald Lake offering sweeping views of its private, spring-fed 11-acre lake—a natural jewel that sets the community apart.
“I loved my neighborhood and still keep up with my neighbors, but I really love living here at Touchmark,” Brenda says. “It just felt right. We’ve got the most gorgeous location; I’m on the lakeside and have a gorgeous view. Every morning, my miniature poodle gets me up at about 6:30, and we go out and see the beautiful sunrises. To me, it’s just the perfect place to be, and I don’t think there’s anywhere else that’s prettier than this place.”
Spacious Homes Designed for Comfort and Connection
Downsizing doesn’t always mean cutting back. For Brenda, it meant a fresh start with a layout that truly works for her life.
““I have an extra bedroom; it’s a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, and I have 12-foot ceilings. I was delighted by that,” she says. “I have a guest bedroom for company when I want and need it … It’s very spacious.”
Large windows, thoughtful layouts, and maintenance-free living allow residents to enjoy the best parts of homeownership without the burdens that often come with it.
Active, Engaged Living: More Ways to Enjoy Every Day
For those wondering what an average day looks like at Touchmark, Brenda has one answer: options.
“It’s just enjoyable. The people I’ve met have become best buds, and we enjoy doing things together. Today, we went down by the lake and did yoga. Then I met friends for lunch and am headed to a tequila tasting downstairs at 4 this afternoon. You would probably be exhausted if you did everything; there are so many good choices.”
From chef-prepared meals and fitness programs to social clubs, outings, educational talks, and lakeside recreation, Touchmark makes it easy to build a life filled with purpose, fun, and friendship.
Hospitality That Truly Feels Like Family
Great communities aren’t made of buildings—they’re made of people. Another part of what makes life here feel so easy for Brenda is the people who help make each day run smoothly.
“We have wonderful staff here,” Brenda notes. “The young people who wait on us at mealtimes are fabulous. No matter what you ask for, they say, ‘Of course.’ Everyone is just so pleasant and willing to help.”
For older adults (and their families), this level of consistent, compassionate support brings confidence and peace of mind. Moments of kindness add up and create a community that feels truly welcoming.
Advice from Someone Who’s Glad She Said “Yes”
If Brenda could share one message with others considering a change, it’s this:
“A lot of people wait too long to enjoy what we have here,” she says. “You need to get in early enough to enjoy the activities, make friends, and stop worrying about maintaining a house. I would fully recommend Touchmark to anyone.”
Opening yourself up to a new kind of home—one filled with connection and convenience—might just be the best choice you could make. Her experience reflects a growing trend—older adults choosing to right-size their homes early so they can maximize health, independence, and social connection.
About Touchmark at Emerald Lake
Touchmark at Emerald Lake offers:
- Independent Living
- Assisted Living
- Memory Care
All situated on a stunning lakeside campus designed for wellbeing, community, and lifelong vitality.
If you or someone you love is exploring senior living options in the McKinney area, Touchmark offers private tours and personalized introductions to help you discover whether this vibrant community is the right fit.
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Call 469-343-4950 to schedule a tour
A beautiful life is waiting right by the water.
