Senior living community hosts first NYE party since 2019

Residents of The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods in Sarasota rang in the New Year with the community’s first New Year’s Eve party since 2019. The community hosted a masquerade ball for residents of its independent living community, with live entertainment from a six-piece band and refreshments.

“The last two years have been challenging for our residents, as they’ve found new ways to connect and thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Peggy Beasley, Executive Director of The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods, an independent and assisted living community. “We’re excited to safely welcome back in-person events where residents can connect and celebrate together.”

The community began its vaccination efforts in January of 2021, offering residents and associates the Pfizer vaccine onsite through CVS Clinic. Boosters were also made available in November.

The party was held outdoors near the community’s pool with entertainment provided by Second Wind Band. Dinner was served in the main dining room, with dessert and drinks available during the poolside event. Unvaccinated residents were asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing.

In preparation for the New Year’s Eve party, residents of the independent living community reflected on the lessons they learned in 2021 and set their resolutions for 2022.

• Terry Day, 83, “My lesson learned in 2021 is that developing and strengthening friendships is more important than going to restaurants, traveling and attending entertainment events. My resolution is to hold onto those friendships while I start doing those things again!”
• Carol Shaw, 77, “Having lost my husband this year, my biggest lesson learned is that you are never alone if you live in a place like [The Fountains]. My resolution is to live life to the fullest.”
• Joan Wexler, 89, “My lesson learned is that I can’t do everything myself, and it’s okay to ask for help. I plan to take better care of myself in 2022.”
• Kay Day, 83, “My lesson learned is the realization that I’m getting older, and that’s alright. My resolution is to try and live a healthier life!”
• Jetty Zarfos, 78, “My lesson learned in 2021 is that you can face unexpected challenges and grow through them.”

Helping residents keep their New Year’s resolutions, The Fountains offers a full calendar of educational programming through Watermark University, fitness classes and planned outings to local performances and events.

“Our hope is that 2022 will bring a renewed sense of health and well-being to our residents,” said Beasley. “Their resiliency during the pandemic has been inspiring and we look forward to finding new ways to help them thrive in the new year.”

About The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods

Located at 3260 Lake Pointe Blvd., The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods is a retirement community in Sarasota, located on a 53-acre property with lakes, walking trails, mature trees, native wildlife, migrating birds and gazebos. The community offers independent and assisted living with short and long-term skilled nursing and rehabilitation at The Springs, an on-site health center operated by Summit Care. The Fountains offers a country club lifestyle featuring three dining options, an extensive calendar of events, outings, classes, clubs and fitness opportunities. Managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods is committed to creating an extraordinary and innovative community where people thrive. For more information, visit http://lakepointewoods.watermarkcommunities.com.