If you’ve ever asked where to find an item in the supermarket only to be met by an indifferent stare, or been ignored in a shop while the sales associate chats on her cellphone, you know that customer service is rare these days. But not at The Gatesworth, a winner in the ‘best customer service’ category in our T&S Top 100 readers poll. The Gatesworth offers residents all the comforts of home—that is, if your home looks like a beautiful resort hotel and includes an award-winning chef, limo service, an elegant salon and spa, a full calendar of educational activities and social events, and a caring staff that caters to your every need.
One of the most popular gathering spots at The Gatesworth is its state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with a heated saltwater pool, a soothing hot tub, equipment specifically designed for seniors, and a staff of professional certified trainers. “We’re dedicated to keeping our residents fully engaged in life, and we encourage active aging with a wide range of choices,” says water aerobics instructor Suze Schwartz, who has helped residents stay fit for more than 25 years. “Our pool-based classes are popular all year round, and we add new classes regularly so no one gets bored.” Currently there are seven water fitness classes offered Monday through Friday. “And if you just want to swim laps or splash around, the pool is open until 10 p.m.,” she adds.
A typical pool workout addresses cardiovascular health, strength training, flexibility and balance. “It’s especially beneficial for anyone who has arthritis or is recovering from knee or hip surgery,” Schwartz says. “We weigh 10 percent less in the water than we do on land, so exercise is much easier and less stressful.”
Carol Max, president of Carol Max Marketing Services, moved to The Gatesworth five months ago. She works out at least five times a week, taking water aerobics, chair yoga and other classes. “The instructors are so caring, just like everyone else on staff,” says the 80-year-old. “After class, you can enjoy a soothing massage, facial or manicure/pedicure in the luxurious spa, or shower in the gorgeous locker room, then get you hair done at the salon. There’s even a barber shop for the guys! The Gatesworth is like a self-contained city—whatever you want or need, they’ll get it for you. No matter what your question is, their answer is always yes. I love it—that’s why I moved here!”
The well-being of each resident is The Gatesworth’s main concern, Schwartz says. “We appreciate our reputation for providing the best of everything, and we strive to exceed residents’ expectations. Sometimes they’ll come to class with an ache or a pain, and you can tell they don’t feel their best. But after a few minutes, you can see their motor’s running. When class ends, they say my favorite words: ‘Oh, I feel much better now! I’m so glad I came!’ That always makes my day.”
[The Gatesworth, a residential community located at One McKnight Place, is known for outstanding service. For more information, call 314. 993.0111 or visit thegatesworth.com.]
Pictured: Instructor Suze Schwartz and resident Carol Max
Photo: Tim Parker Photography