Cindy and Ken Custer, recent residents of Mease Life, embarked on an exciting journey in their desire for a simpler, more meaningful lifestyle. The couple, who moved in January, found comfort and adventure at a vibrant, active retirement community in Dunedin, Florida.
It was a life-changing decision ten years in the making.
The Custers had lived in a sprawling five-bedroom house on nearly five acres of wooded land. Daunted by the endless demands of home maintenance, it was Cindy Custer who first sought an easier lifestyle.
“About ten years ago, I said to Ken, we need to start thinking about the future; we can’t handle this place forever,” Cindy said.
Ken’s initial response was hesitant, but Cindy persisted. She began researching continuous care retirement communities, aiming for a seamless transition to a single, supportive environment.
“I started doing research on continuous care retirement communities because I knew I wanted it to be one move, one place for everything,” she said.
From Delaware to Florida
The Custers lived in Delaware for 25 years, but Ken’s sudden desire for a warmer climate prompted a change.
“I thought, well, that leaves Delaware out. I started looking in Florida,” Cindy said. “We wanted to be on the West Coast closer to Ken’s brother.”
Cindy explored several options and discovered Mease Life, an active retirement community in Dunedin, which recently affiliated with Acts Retirement-Life Communities. The couple visited Mease Life for two weeks in June to get a feel for the community.
The experience was transformative. They were so impressed that by the second day, they both agreed it was the perfect place for them.
“If I had known how much we would love this place, I’d have booked it for a month,” Cindy said. “That second day, we thought, this is it.”
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The Best of Both Worlds
Mease Life offers a vibrant, active lifestyle combined with the security of having access to assisted living and skilled care if needed. The Custers signed up for a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment, and moved in as soon as their old house sold.
“We absolutely love it here,” Cindy said. The friendliness of residents made them quickly feel at home.
They were invited to dinners and events, and always felt included. “We have dinner at the restaurant every night with different people,” she said.
Access to a variety of amenities, and the convenience of a resort-style community, has also made a significant impact on their quality of life.
“The pool, wellness center, and gym are incredible,” Cindy said. “This morning, I went to a strength class, and after that I went on the treadmill at the gym. It's fabulous.”
Cindy and Ken Custer also enjoy the aqua aerobics class in the pool.
“My only regret is there’s never enough hours in the day to do everything we want,” she laughed.
Being close to the beach and having a free looper bus service to downtown Dunedin makes it the prime location for a variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment. “We fell in love with the area and the community,” Cindy said. Mease Life’s smaller size also feels like a perfect fit for them.
Learn more on how Mease Life offers small-town charm with big-city access!
Embracing an Easier Lifestyle
Since moving to Mease Life, the Custers revel in their newfound freedom. Gone are the responsibilities of their old home with its acres to maintain.
“We have more freedom here than we did in our old home,” Cindy said. “You know how it is when you own a home. It’s one thing after another!”
“We sleep so much better here,” she added. They also have more time to spend doing what they enjoy. At Mease Life, the possibilities are endless. The community’s monthly calendars are filled with enticing activities.
And let’s not forget the food!
“The food is phenomenal,” Cindy said. “There are also fun themed nights, and special events with filet mignon, lobster tail, and amazing desserts.”
Mease Life is a special place where every day feels like a celebration. Cindy and Ken Custer have found not just a place to live, but a vibrant, supportive community where they can thrive and enjoy life to the fullest!
Visit our premiere Dunedin retirement community and speak to our life care consultant today!
