Make Your Dream Retirement A Reality at Devonshire

Since moving to Devonshire, the Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Rosalind "Roz" and Michael "Mike" Skigen have enjoyed an active, social lifestyle--a lifestyle they couldn't achieve in their old house.

"I usually try to envision our life as it's going to be in five years, and I couldn't see us staying in our house," recalls Roz. "There were things we would have had to do--and spend a lot of money doing it."

"I used to do most of the handiwork," adds Mike. "That meant climbing ladders, changing screens, and fixing things."

But now, with a maintenance-free home and convenient access to an array of clubs and amenities, the Skigens are able to pursue their interests and make new friends--without worrying about the future.

Doing their research

When Roz and Mike, longtime Palm Beach Gardens residents, started exploring their senior living options, they knew they wanted to stay close to home.

"We only looked within a few miles," Roz says. "We wanted to stay where we were comfortable."

They quickly learned that not all retirement communities offer the same sense of convenience and security.

"One place we visited had buildings that weren't attached [together]. Another said that if there was a hurricane, they evacuate," Roz recalls. "At Devonshire, the buildings are connected, and during bad weather, we stay in place."

Located in a non-evacuation zone, Devonshire boasts top-grade, steel beam construction and hurricane-rated windows. "That really mattered to us," she notes.

"When you live in a house, there are many unpredictable factors to account for," says Sales Director Donna Schneider. "Devonshire eliminates all of that stress, enabling residents to focus on making the most of their retirement years."

A vibrant lifestyle

And the Skigens are doing exactly that. While Mike enjoys playing poker, participating in water aerobics classes, and visiting the fitness center, Roz is nurturing her creative side.

"I always wanted to crochet and paint," she says. "I discovered Devonshire's Sew and So group; the wonderful women taught me how to crochet. I also joined a painting group and, together, we are learning and getting better."

Together, they've spent lots of time playing golf, especially with PGA National's premier courses just a short stroll from their residence.

Dining deliciously

Roz and Mike also appreciate Devonshire's on-campus restaurants. Both the food and the friendliness of their dinner companions have exceeded their expectations.

"The two of us eat very differently. I enjoy meat, and Roz likes fish. But it's very easy for us both to be happy," says Mike. "There are always so many good options. And I've been very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. The steaks and veal chops are as good as any we've had in this area, or even in New York."

"And we really enjoy the social aspect of dining with our neighbors," says Roz. "We've found it so easy to meet people. We typically eat dinner with different couples each night."

More freedom

Roz and Mike credit their maintenance-free home for their new lifestyle.

"The biggest surprise is how easy it is to live here," says Roz. "If you need a lightbulb changed, someone [from the General Services team] is quickly at your door to change it. There's really nothing they won't help with."

"It's also very nice to have someone come in to change the linens and clean the apartment," adds Mike.

"You don't realize how much time and energy all these tasks take until they're no longer your responsibility. It's really wonderful."

Very impressed

Reflecting on their two years at Devonshire, the Skigens believe that Devonshire offers exactly what they hoped for in retirement--and more.

"Even now, we continue to find new advantages of our move," says Roz. "For instance, the security team and gated front entrance. That's a real plus. We know we are well taken care of, and that peace of mind makes a big difference."

Mike agrees, saying, "We are very happy we moved to Devonshire. The combination of the wonderful people, the delicious meals, and the beautiful homes--it's really better than we imagined."

Request more information today to learn more about the benefits of pursuing a carefree retirement lifestyle.

By Kelly Shue