Ross and Becky Canterberry on Park Shore Retirement Living: “It’s Wonderful!”

This article is sponsored by Park Shore

At ages 64 and 62 respectively, Ross and Becky Canterberry are not typical retirement community residents. But that hasn’t stopped them from thoroughly enjoying the experience.

These college sweethearts met while students at the University of Washington. After moving extensively for Ross’ career at Paccar (including a stint in England), they now consider themselves home again—living in their favorite Seattle neighborhood of Madison Park.

The Canterberrys made the move from Texas to Park Shore retirement community in Madison Park in 2012.

Ross and Becky dreamed of retiring to Seattle’s Madison Park neighborhood with its waterfront views and relaxed village lifestyle. They are now living their dream at Park Shore retirement community.

Ross and Becky are the youngest residents at Park Shore, but that is not an issue for them. “People are very friendly here, both the residents and the staff,” says Ross, who serves as president of the residents’ association. “It’s always warm and welcoming, and it just makes you feel good about the place.”

“Being the youngest doesn’t bother me at all,” says Becky. “The people here are so very nice. We have a combination of both worlds: retirement community living and being independent, active and involved in the neighborhood. Most people who move in start that same way,” she adds. “It is a good transition.”

And, as Ross points out, “This is the last move we plan to make, so over time we won’t always be the youngest. They’ve made it so easy for us. We’re pretty spoiled.”

Becky’s health concerns were one reason the couple decided to move to a retirement community. She requires a lot of therapy for lupus (an autoimmune disease) and she can get that therapy without leaving Park Shore.

Before the move, they were spending so much time driving to Becky’s medical appointments, maintaining a large house and trying to keep up with everything else that comes with home ownership... “It was just too much,” explains Becky. “We started looking into condominiums. But then we realized we would still need help at some point, and we wanted to make only one move instead of two.” The couple thought that moving to a community where everything is taken care of was not a bad option. In fact, for them, it was the best option.

“A place became available in Park Shore, and we said, ‘Let’s do it!’ We put our house on the market and it sold the same day,” adds Becky of their whirlwind transition from home-ownership to retirement community living.

“In addition to independent living, Park Shore also has assisted living and nursing care,” says Ross. “That is a key feature to this place. They do a great job at providing those services here if we ever need it. And if we do, we won’t be separated. Having access to that kind of care was included in our decision.”

The Canterberrys had the foresight to place their name on Park Shore’s waiting list even before they thought they were ready for a retirement community. They are part of a growing number of boomers and seniors planning ahead to find a home that provides the best retirement living has to offer, along with the peace of mind knowing that services you may need are available without ever leaving the community. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) like Park Shore offer several levels of health care and services on one campus.

Don Warfield, Park Shore’s marketing director, discusses what to keep in mind when considering a continuing care retirement community. “Factor in all the services and costs that are covered in your monthly service fee at the community, and how much you are saving by not paying for them out of pocket. For example, your monthly fee at Park Shore includes paid utilities, private dining, free transportation, housekeeping and linen services. A variety of entrance-fee options are available,” he advises. “And by choosing a continuing care community, you can feel confident that you have provided for your future health needs. Park Shore is a great plan for you, and a wonderful gift to give your children.”

Warfield goes on to describe some of the added perks of living at Park Shore. “Many retirees dream of living in a waterfront condo, and Madison Park certainly is a dream destination. But waterfront condos in Madison Park can go for well over a million dollars—residents here have grabbed a dream apartment at Park Shore for just a fraction of the cost. Consider all the expenses you are leaving behind, like home maintenance costs or condo HOA fees. At Park Shore, your monthly service fee includes meals, amenities and activities that condos can’t match. You can enjoy the same activity-rich Madison Park waterfront lifestyle without the expense of purchasing an expensive condo,” he says. Park Shore offers grilling on the water, dining with a view and moorage for your boat if you own one. There are solariums on every floor, offering a great place to meet up with neighbors or just enjoy a quiet read, bathed in natural sunlight.

When the opportunity became available at Park Shore, Ross and Becky were sold on the move. They enjoy the wide range of activities offered at the retirement community, like a recent Friday night concert with a Beatles cover band. “It was a riot. I got up and did the twist,” says Becky with a twinkle. She also mentions the appeal and convenience of living so close to Seattle’s rich cultural offerings. “It is easy to get everywhere from here. We have a car, but we don’t really need to drive; Park Shore offers transportation,” she says. “It couldn’t be more convenient.” The Metro bus also stops right outside of Park Shore’s front door.

Like many retirees, residents at Park Shore are a busy bunch—taking in the arts, educational and fitness programs scheduled at the community. Local and even overseas travel adventures are part of the mix. “These wonderful experiences help to create new memories and deepen friendships,” reports Warfield.

Swimming, boating, exploring the lake on a kayak, golf and tennis are just some of the activities residents enjoy in the area. Ross and Becky also appreciate the relaxed, village lifestyle of Madison Park, a neighborhood long known for its charm. Many retirees are looking for walkable communities, and Madison Park’s level terrain fits the bill. A grocery, pharmacy, services, shops, parks, cafes and restaurants are all within easy walking distance.

“We love walking our dog in the neighborhood, and the feeling that we are part of this special place,” says Becky.

Often, the meals at retirement communities are a part of the decision to make the move. This was also true for the Canterberrys. “The food at Park Shore is tremendous,” says Ross of the chef-prepared cuisine. “The dining room looks right out at Lake Washington, and it offers white tablecloths and changing menus.” “The meals take healthy choices into consideration” adds Becky. “Plus, I don’t have to cook and Ross gets to eat, which he really likes to do!” she quips.

At Park Shore, Ross and Becky have a home that friends and family enjoy visiting, including both sets of parents and their daughter, a 34-year-old computer whiz living in Austin, Texas.

“We love Madison Park and feel so much a part of it. In the summer, we sit in our dining room over the water and think about what you would have to pay for this at a restaurant,” reflects Ross of living at Park Shore. “It’s not too tough.”

Park Shore is nestled in Madison Park along the shores of Lake Washington at 1630 43rd Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98112. For more information, call 206-720-8229 or visit www.ParkShore.org

MORE INFORMATION

Stop in for a personal tour of Park Shore, and stay for lunch. To schedule your personal visit and tour, call 206-720-8229

Check out Park Shore’s Lakeside Club - The Lakeside Club offers a perfect way to make friends at Park Shore and to experience the Park Shore lifestyle without a commitment—except to have fun. A one-time, fully refundable fee gives you access to quarterly events, resident programs and priority status on your apartment selection should you decide to move in. For more information, call 206-720-8229 or stop by for a visit!