STRATEGIC DECISIONMAKING FINANCIAL FORETHOUGHT
Often applied in the business world, the old saying, “Failing to plan is planning to fail” is equally valid when it comes to preparing for life’s later years. In fact – although many of us don’t like to think about the “what-ifs” in life – the truth is: we can’t afford not to. Mayflower residents know this. That’s why they’re here. Meet a few of our “planners.”
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ate certainly brought Elaine and Doug Kerr together back in 1962 when they met during orientation week as Rollins College students. But during their subsequent 54 years of marriage, they didn’t leave much else to chance. After graduation, the couple decided to settle in Winter Park for good. Doug worked at Martin Marietta and got his master’s degree at Crummer. Meanwhile, Elaine plied her artistic skill in area craft shows with a collection of textile art pieces. The couple raised two daughters and became part of the fabric of the community. Even when retirement seemed far off, the Kerrs planned for their future – and when Doug was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, they had everything in place to make the right decision for his health. “It was a big transition,” Elaine says. “But we were ready for it – and moving to The Mayflower was an easy choice. It’s the best in the area.”
Doug and Elaine Kerr planned early for their future – and they’re glad they did.
Doug’s financial forethought also helped smooth their path. “He did all our finances, so when we met with our advisor to discuss the move, the first thing he said was, ‘Congratulations – you’ve done it right,’ ” Elaine recalls. At The Mayflower, the Kerrs are busier than ever. “We love the ambience here,” Elaine adds. “When you’re always moving, you don’t stagnate. Sometimes you try new things and find out, ‘Hey, I really like that!’ That’s how The Mayflower has been for us.”
ALL THE “MUST-HAVES”
In preparing for their future, Reverends John and Diana Jackson were focused and specific. “From a planning perspective, we had a list of ‘must-haves’,” Diana says. “We wanted a community with a pool, seated dining service, a Health Center and an in-house doctor – and everything had to be under one roof.” The Jacksons visited four communities in three states, seeking those criteria.