Hord Coplan Macht

Professor Reminisce Introduction: “My memory isn’t what it used to be, but I persist in my lifetime passion to learn new things. I attend classes at the local college through a program my community offers. My memory for things long ago is intact, so, for example, I was able share a first-hand account of the civil rights movement with my classmates.” 

Master Sergeant Valor Introduction: “After a lifetime of service, I’m still not ready to rest. As a retired Army Master Sergeant and Military Intelligence professional, I remain keenly interested in what’s happening in the world and the security of our nation. I try to maintain my physical health and am active in my community. I will help others and volunteer for as long as I am able to. I also read and discuss critical topics of the day with others who have similar interests. We don’t always agree, but this keeps my mind sharp.”  

Valor: You’ll often find me out in the courtyard in the summertime. The air and the trees always lighten my mood. Even in winter, the big windows keep the outside near. 

Reminisce: I mentioned my tomatoes and the garden club, which is one of my favorite activities. When I’m not digging weeds and the weather is good enough, you’ll find me reading on the porch while taking the air. 

Studies have shown that contact with the natural world, even indirect connections through “biophilic” patterns, colors, textures, and views, not only improves peoples’ outlook but has measurable positive effects on health and healing.  

Retirement communities therefore employ biophilic design: incorporating nature into architecture. 

Prof. Reminisce: “The furniture here is cleverly designed to help you get up and down with less trouble. Everything looks like regular furniture, but I can sit in any chair without fear of getting stuck there because of my shaky knees.”