For many people, their golden years may be a time to slow down and take it easy, but it’s still important to remain active and engaged—mentally, physically and creatively. Simple steps and routines, such as learning something new or engaging in meaningful conversations, can have a big impact. The Gatesworth understands this and strives to find innovative ways to support lifelong learning for its residents, whether it’s fitness and wellness classes, lectures from local experts, a wide variety of clubs or simply the opportunity to connect with peers.
Resident Timmie Wiant has found that living at The Gatesworth offers endless opportunities for engagement. Originally, a native of New Jersey, she moved to St. Louis after her husband got a job with Mercy. They raised their family here, and Wiant quickly became involved in the community, volunteering at the Missouri Botanical Garden and playing tennis. Now 92, she remains active as ever, although now she spends more time watching tennis than playing. “This has been an exciting time in my life,” Wiant says. “There are no expectations for how I fill my days. I’m getting to spend time with my grandchildren and great grandchildren. I feel very fulfilled.”
One of Wiant’s favorite activities is rug hooking. She discovered the artform while visiting New Hampshire on a trip with her sister. The history and creative potential of the craft appealed to her, and she’s been an avid rug maker for around 30 years. “I liked the idea of taking almost any idea and turning it into a handmade piece,” Wiant notes. “It’s an opportunity to create and get creative. I’ve made rugs that are very colorful and bright, and I’ve also tackled serious subjects, including a rug related to Sept. 11. I like being able to express so much and so many different things through my work.”
Living at The Gatesworth, Wiant has been able to connect with more people who also enjoy rug hooking. She is part of a group of residents that share their work and support one another during the crafting process. “It’s nice to have a group of people who are involved in the same kind of creative work,” she says. “We enjoy spending time together. We admire each other’s work, and there are a lot of good vibes that come from connecting with other creators. Meeting new people, especially fellow rug hookers, is one of the joys of my life.”
Wiant enjoys the freedom of life at The Gatesworth. Her days are filled with what she wants to do, whether that’s attending a lecture, reading a book, meeting with fellow residents or enjoying a stroll through the community’s beautiful grounds. “Life is more relaxed at The Gatesworth, but there is still always something interesting going on,” she notes. “It’s the best there is in senior living. Anyone who finds themselves living here is very fortunate. Life is good. I haven’t made a rug that says that, but maybe I will.”
Located at One McKnight Place, The Gatesworth offers residents a wide variety of innovative services and amenities so they can live life to the fullest. Pictured on the cover: Resident Timmie Wiant. For more information, call 314.907.0678 or visit thegatesworth.com.
Cover design courtesy of The Gatesworth
Cover photo by Gregg Goldman
Editorial photo cutline: Resident Timmie Wiant
Photo: Gregg Goldman
