The Mayflower Navigator Summer 2018

MAYFLOWER

inside this issue: STAYING CONNECTED Family Friends Community A PUBLICATION OF THE MAYFLOWER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY SUMMER 2018

Mayflower residents Terri and Everett Hughes (center) bond with son Jon and his wife, Betsy (right) and daughter Christine and grandson Chris (left), through the family’s active lifestyle.

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY

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hen it comes to Everett and Terri Hughes, fitness literally runs in the family. “Staying active has always been a big part of our lives,” says Terri. “Over the years, we ran, we swam, we played tennis. We weren’t the kind of family to sit around. That active lifestyle has kept us healthy in every way.”

Not only has the Hughes family prioritized fitness, they have also watched it become a successful business model for their son Jon and his wife Betsy, who own Orlando-based Track Shack – one of the nation’s top 50 specialty running stores.

“I had an opportunity to get in on the ground level when the store first opened,” Jon recalls. “Mom and Dad supported me every step of the way and even started 2 | SUMMER 2018 NAVIGATOR

participating in races. They’ve helped at our 5Ks for years. We’re a very close-knit family.”

Everett adds, “The races became a fun thing for all of us to do. It’s extended to family members on both sides. It’s infectious!”

At The Mayflower, Everett and Terri are still lacing up their walking shoes.

“I love to walk, and I do a lot of it here,” says Terri. “There’s a beautiful trail around the campus. Plus, the exercise program is fantastic!”

Both generations of the Hughes family also enjoy living close by. “We like knowing that we can see each other often,” says Jon. “But if Mom and Dad need support, it’s right here. And that’s comforting for our whole family.”

TAKING STEPS TOWARD BETTER HEALTH

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or many seniors, like Everett and Terri Hughes, walking is an important part of their exercise regimen – and that’s a good thing. In fact, health experts say that walking is one of the very best exercises for people of all ages. According to NBC News, numerous studies have found that “walking improves fitness and cardiac health, enhances mood, creates less stress on joints, reduces pain, can prevent weight gain, reduces risk for cancer and chronic disease, improves endurance, circulation, and posture . . . and the list goes on.”

BETTER TOGETHER Maintaining meaningful relationships plays a key role in health, happiness and longevity, according to ongoing research from the Harvard Study of Adult Development. “Good, close relationships appear to buffer us from the problems of getting old,” says Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. “Staying connected is actually a form of taking care of yourself, just like exercise or eating right.” At The Mayflower, residents see these benefits every day, in a family-like environment that fosters close connections among residents, loved ones and staff.

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s mother and daughter, Marilyn Guyton and Debra Johnston share a lot: a mutual love of linedancing, an interest in bowling, fond memories of living abroad – even keeping the air conditioning at 75 degrees. But, today – just as they did when Debra was growing up – they also share a home.

As a living option for older adults, “home sharing” is on the rise, especially among women. The concept began to gain popularity about 10 years ago, born at the time out of economic challenges brought on by the recession. It prompted the founding of the “Golden Girls Network” (inspired by the hit TV sitcom), an online house-sharing database for older adults.

The number of people over 75 who are living alone is projected to double by 2035, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies. And that may

Marilyn Guyton (seated) and daughter Debra Johnston enjoy sharing their home at The Mayflower. have implications not only for home sharing … but also for the importance of living in a community of friends, where companionship, health and safety are paramount.

Clearly, Marilyn and Debra are on to something. “As I got older, Mom got smarter,” Debra says with a chuckle.

“I realized what an excellent community she’d chosen here at The Mayflower.

It made financial sense for me to join her – so we got a bigger apartment with two bedrooms. We love being roommates, and we complement each other well.”

Having spent her career as a public accountant for large corporations, Debra still works part time doing bookkeeping for several clients. She fills her free time with swimming, exercising and quilting, which she describes as her “artistic outlet.”

In addition to finding fellow Mayflower residents with whom she can “talk quilting language,” Debra also enjoys maintenance-free living.

“I don’t like cooking or housework, so The Mayflower is perfect,” she says.

And living with Mom is the icing on the cake.”

NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS

A Marie Bellochio (right) considers Grace Landauer and other Mayflower staff to be her extended family.

s an avid gardener, Marie Bellochio understands the importance of nurturing. In fact, one of her gestures of friendship is proudly transplanting “pups” from her sansevieria plant, which she’s owned since 1994, and giving them to others. It’s her way of expressing gratitude to fellow Mayflower residents and staff, whom she considers extended family.

One of Marie’s closest friends is Grace Landauer, The Mayflower’s receptionist. “Grace has supported me through both happy and challenging times,” says Marie. “She means the world to me.”

Grace also serves as pet sitter for Marie’s 15-year-old rescue cat, Teddy Bear, and helps give him his medication. “She cares for Teddy like he’s her own,” Marie says.

“I am so happy I can help,” adds Grace. “That’s the best part of my job. Our residents have so much to offer, and they become like family.

And family is what we’re all about at The Mayflower.”

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Residents of The Mayf lower’s Villas neighborhood enjoy socializing at block parties. Says former pediatrician Cathy Trenkle (standing, center): “The health benefits of social engagement are obvious. Supportiveness reduces stress and helps us stay resilient.”

THE BEST SOCIAL NETWORK:

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FACE-TO-FACE TIME & WORDS WITH FRIENDS

merging research on brain health validates what many older adults already know to be true: Staying social is critical for positive aging. But, it’s not just about joining organizations, attending parties or even doing volunteer work. If you really want to maximize the benefits of social engagement, add some BFFs into the equation – because friendships among older adults have been shown to reliably predict both happiness and health.

Putting it simply, a recent article in Psychology Today notes: “To age well, you need friends.” According to a study sponsored by the National Institute on Aging, while the value of strong family ties

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stayed consistent over time, the importance of friendships grew as people got older.

A study conducted by researchers at Michigan State University had similar findings: that friendships among seniors were related to better physical health and cognitive functioning … and that they often provided even more joy than family relationships.

A CULTURE OF POSITIVITY

That doesn’t surprise those who live and work at The Mayflower. “One of our core values is to deliver what we call a ‘smiling vibe,’ which fosters a culture where people feel welcomed, happy and valued,” says Director of Marketing Jana Ricci.

Pictured grilling at a neighborhood barbecue, Linda and Bob Maraio understand the importance of staying connected with friends.

“By providing lots of opportunities to interact and socialize, we also create an environment that nutures abiding friendships. We see them blossom every day.”

Mayflower residents meet and bond in a number of “micro communities” that deepen and enrich social networks: at the community garden, in lifelong learning classes, at the Fitness Center, over a glass of wine during Happy Hour, or at a backyard barbecue at the Villas.

Says resident Nancy Klingler: “We have a true neighborhood mentality.

With 28 houses in our Villas area, you get to know each person. You see them on the street and strike up conversations.

When someone is experiencing problems, the neighborhood rallies to support one another.”

“Living here facilitates togetherness and friendships,” she adds. “And that’s also a reflection of the staff, who are extraordinarily friendly, helpful, flexible and do everything they can to help.”

Neighbors Bob and Linda Maraio agree.

“In a way, we have more friends here at The Mayflower,” says Linda. “They’re more accessible than they’ve ever been before.”

conversation, laughing or making lunch plans together. It’s amazing how quickly people establish friendships.”

Workouts often become a catalyst for developing meaningful relationships that extend beyond yoga mats and free weights.

“One of the most important benefits of a community is the opportunity to relate to someone who has experienced the same thing,” Sarah adds. “Whether you’re going through something difficult or wonderful, there’s someone who can celebrate with or encourage you.”

THE RIGHT COURSE

When he steps onto the green with his golfing buddies, Jack Riley recalls a motto that has served him on the course – and in life. “There are three important things in golf: Where you play, how you play, and who you play with – and the first two are vastly overrated,” says Jack, a retired air-pollution control

TEAM BUILDING

Friendships are also forged at another Mayflower social hub: the Fitness Center.

“Taking an exercise class is a team-building experience,” says Fitness Coordinator Sarah Burke. “It’s a lovely thing when I have trouble getting class to start because everyone is talking. They’re in deep

Golfing buddies and Mayf lower residents, from left, Don Jaeger, Don Amicucci and Jack Riley enjoy camaraderie on the course. executive. “Companionship is what it’s all about.”

Jack lives out those words, continuing to tee it up with a senior men’s golf league called The Riley Group, which he has run at The Country Club of Mount Dora for 18 years. Since moving to The Mayflower, he has expanded his pool of golf buddies, adding fellow residents Don Amicucci and Don Jaeger. “We golf at various locations – Timucuan, Forest Lake, Winter Park Pines and Deer Run are some of our regular spots,” Jack says. “Wherever we go, we have a good time. Being around friendly folks makes for a much better environment, and that gets truer with every passing year.”

Fitness classes at The Mayf lower are a catalyst for developing friendships.

LIVING LONGER ... AND BETTER: How communities like The Mayflower contribute to longevity

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ating well, getting enough sleep and staying active are well-known longevity boosters. But a growing body of research shows that spending time with friends can have an equally powerful impact.

Centenarian Midge Ruff is living proof. At age 107, the retired educator still plays a regular game of bridge with fellow Mayflower residents, who say she’s “sharp as a tack” and intensely competitive. She also keeps a very active social calendar. “There's always something to do here,” she says.

Communities like The Mayflower are intentionally designed to foster “social capital”— the ties that build trust, connection and

participation. In analyzing health survey data from nearly 14,000 adults, Drexel University researchers found that seniors living in areas with greater social capital had significantly higher physical ability scores.

Although Midge says there’s no one secret for living longer, she does acknowledge the power of friendships. “Friends have been very important to me,” she says. “They keep you interested and they keep you active!”

At 107 – that’s right, 107 – Midge Ruff still enjoys strolling The Mayf lower grounds with friend and companion Andee Sprick (right).

CONNECTING with COMMUNITY GIVING BACK

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Fred and Mary Fedler have delivered thousands of meals to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels.

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red and Mary Fedler know the value of a friendly face. Seven years ago, they began hand-delivering warm, nutritious breakfasts and lunches to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels. And they’ve stayed the course – on the same route in Casselberry – ever since.

“The people we serve are truly alone, and we might be the only folks who touch their lives,” says Fred. “We provide a warm smile, say hello and chitchat. After you deliver food to the same people every week for several years, they become friends and you know a little about their lives.”

Mary adds: “You think about community when you’re serving people who don’t have one. Being able to develop a relationship with these seniors is amazing. They rely on us, and that’s a rewarding feeling.”

With thousands of deliveries under their belts, the Fedlers aren’t planning to stop anytime soon.

“Volunteers like Fred and Mary are the lifeline of Meals on Wheels,” said Larry Muse, Director of Community Relations for Meals on Wheels Seminole County. “Our volunteers help us deliver 540 meals each day, and they also serve as a safety check for seniors who live alone. We’re incredibly thankful for them.”

For the Fedlers, helping others makes them more grateful for the relationships they’ve forged at The Mayflower since moving in nearly three years ago.

“It’s so easy to meet people here,” says Fred, who taught journalism at the University of Central Florida for 37 years.

“When you go to the dining room, the staff ask if you’d like to be seated with another couple. Plus, there’s a lot of social activities.

When Mary and I worked, we each had our separate colleagues. Now we have a ton of new mutual friends – bridge friends, villa friends, golf friends. The Mayflower makes

it possible to stay connected with all your groups. Community is all over!”

PAYING CIVIC RENT

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f you ask Lawrie Platt Hall, older adults should not shy away from civic engagement. She currently serves on the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Committee, as well as the city’s Utility Advisory Board. In both roles, she offers expertise gleaned from decades in public relations and government affairs leadership roles for Tupperware, a major utility company and former Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick.

“When I moved to The Mayflower, I didn’t leave my brain at the door,” she says.

“I still want to be engaged and involved in things that interest me, and where I can bring expertise from my career to be useful in the community.”

At the Chamber, Lawrie and the committee focus on monitoring and providing input on legislative issues of importance to Winter Park business owners.

On the utility advisory board, she’s enjoyed using her background in the oil and utility industries to tackle complex municipal issues.

“It’s a very thoughtful board, and I’m learning a tremendous amount from the expertise of the other members,” she says.

“It’s exciting to have a front-row seat in this transformative stage where utilities are using alternative fuels, such as solar.”

Having run a successful nonprofit earlier in life, Lawrie knows the importance of volunteers who offer their skills, time and resources. As part of her busy schedule, she also serves on the board of a nonprofit that houses support groups.

In addition, she’s worked with fellow Mayflower resident Tom Savino to host a series of candidate forums at The Mayflower for local mayor and city commission races.

“I spend a lot of time making sure the questions we pose are relevant and important to Winter Park and our residents,” she says. “We want to give each candidate a fair chance at showing why they ought to be elected.”

According to Lawrie, bringing new ideas from the community into The Mayflower – and vice versa – creates a vibrant dynamic.

“Paying your civic rent and staying relevant and involved in your own right – that’s very important,” she adds. “You’re out there doing something that is purposeful and has meaning. It matters.”

Adds Betsy Gardner Eckbert, President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber: “Volunteers like Lawrie create value for our members, support entrepreneurs in the community and extend a warm welcome to guests visiting Winter Park. They’re an essential part of our team.”

Below, Lawrie Platt Hall (right) works with Winter Park Chamber President Betsy Gardner Eckbert on issues of importance to local business owners.

GET INVOLVED! How,Where and Why

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t’s no surprise that giving back feels good. Now, science sheds light on how altruism benefits older adults – and it comes down to a sense of purpose.

Purposeful living has been linked to longer life, lower risk of disease, better sleep and healthier behaviors. And according to a new study published in JAMA Psychiatry, having purpose in life can help people maintain their function and independence as they age. Here are a few ways you can share your skills: BUILD SOMETHING. At Habitat for Humanity, whose mission is to provide homes for deserving families, volunteers can help by raising walls, painting or making minor repairs for neighborhood revitalization projects. To learn more, visit Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando at www.habitat-orlando.org or Habitat of Winter Park/Maitland at www.habitatwpm.org.

FEED SOMEONE. Hunger affects in 1 in 8 Americans, according to Feeding America. Make an impact by sorting food to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank’s mission of “fighting hunger, feeding hope” or delivering meals to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels. Visit www.feedhopenow.org, www.mealsetc.org or www.seniorsfirstinc.org.

HELP THE HEALERS. At Winter Park Memorial Hospital, simple acts of kindness can lift patients’ spirits. The hospital seeks people to share their artistic talents, read books aloud, play the piano and provide customer service in waiting rooms.

Visit www.floridahospital.com/winter-park-memorial/volunteer.

SUPPORT THE TROOPS. There are many tangible ways to thank our armed forces. At The Mayflower, sewing groups make blankets and quilts to send to the troops. The Veterans Administration in Orlando also needs help with clerical tasks, recreation support, escorting patients and even writing for newsletters. For more information, visit www.orlando.va.gov/giving.

ADVOCATE FOR THE ARTS. Winter Park art lovers can volunteer at Crealdé School of Art, the Polasek Museum and the Morse Museum. Among the opportunities: docents, receptionists, gardeners, sculpture caretakers and event assistants. Visit www.crealde.org, www.polasek.org or www.morsemuseum.org.

TEACH. As an Oasis CATCH Healthy Habits volunteer, you can help children kick-start lifelong healthy habits through weekly interactive lessons. Visit www.rollins.edu/evening/events/catchsummer-volunteers to learn more. Or, you can work with the Adult Literacy League to provide life-changing reading skills to Orange County adults (www.adultliteracyleague.org).

CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. Mead Garden and the City of Winter Park need folks who are willing to get their hands dirty, literally. Whether cleaning up streets, weeding, maintaining a butterfly haven or leading tours, volunteers keep the city beautiful and sustainable. Visit www.meadgarden.org or www.cityofwinterpark.org.

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THE MAYFLOWER Winter Park’s Distinctive Retirement Community

1620 MAYFLOWER COURT | WINTER PARK, FL 32792

88141 PRAD FNL 7/2018

WHERE WILL YOU BE THIS HURRICANE SEASON?

We’ll take good care of you!

If you live in Florida, storms are a fact of life.

But, when they turn into hurricanes, there’s plenty of reason for concern. You have to get ready. Stock the pantry. Buy bottled water.

Gas up the car. Board up the windows. Clear debris from the yard. And afterwards, there’s the clean-up.

Imagine if you didn’t have to do any of that.

At The Mayflower, you won’t – because we take care of everything. With storm-hardened buildings, back-up generators and ample supplies of water and food, you’ll feel safe and secure. During Hurricane Irma, our main kitchen remained fully operational, serving three hot meals a day. Plus, our maintenance team and staff members stayed on site during the storm.

“When Hurricane Irma hit last fall,

THE MAYFLOWER WAS AN OASIS IN THE STORM.” – Bob and Toni Barr

Don’t worry about another hurricane season!

Find out more about how The Mayflower provides a safe harbor where residents, families and staff weather all life’s storms together. Visit our website at www.TheMayflower.com to learn more.

Or call us at 407.672.1620 to schedule a tour.