It’s been said things get better with age, and at The Gatesworth, that applies to the entire retirement community. The staff, programs and living spaces are constantly evolving to better suit residents’ needs and lifestyles. For more than 30 years, The Gatesworth has delivered innovative services and luxury amenities to ensure that seniors stay active, happy and comfortable.
Executive director Carrie Montrey has been at the community for 17 years. She began as assistant director in resident services and has worn many hats since, from running the fitness center to working with security. “I initially was attracted to the opportunity because of the people, and now, they continue to motivate me to do my best,” she notes. “Everyone who works here is so gracious and kind. It’s a really wonderful environment.”
For Montrey, no two days at The Gatesworth are the same, and she enjoys the variety. “I work with different managers, and I talk with residents and their families on a daily basis,” she says. “I’m always brainstorming and looking for new ideas to improve things.” The most rewarding part of her job is being able to work directly with people, listening and resolving any concerns. She especially enjoys hosting special events like celebratory breakfasts or monthly birthday lunches. “It’s a great opportunity for everyone to learn about each other,” she notes.
Along with spending time with residents, Montrey loves how much positive feedback she hears. “Residents and their families always are popping into my office to share something nice or compliment the staff,” she says. “Everyone who works here truly helps set The Gatesworth apart from other retirement communities. We have a strong commitment to quality and strive to maintain an exceptional level of service.” With one of the highest staff-to-resident ratios in the nation, the community provides an unparalleled experience, and requests can be answered quickly.
The success of The Gatesworth’s dedication is evident in the satisfaction of those who call it home. Along with being able to socialize with one another, Montrey says residents most enjoy the variety of activities and programs offered, including discussion groups, live entertainment, card games, spa services and fitness classes. And the schedule often changes to suit people’s interests or needs. For example, the fitness program began offering step and men’s weight classes after residents inquired about them. “It takes a lot to operate something this large with such a high level of service,” Montrey notes. “Credit definitely goes to the managers and employees who deliver all of our services to residents.”
Celia Sutera and her husband, Salvatore, have been part of the community for six years. She says a big incentive to choose The Gatesworth was the social interaction available. “People we knew already lived here, and we’ve made a lot of new friends,” she says. “We are very happy to be here.” Sutera also enjoys all of the activities. Her favorites include going to the fitness center, enjoying live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and attending Questers, a political lecture series led by Terry Jones, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. “The staff is wonderful and very accommodating of whatever we might need,” she adds. “It’s just a neat place.”
Located at One McKnight Place, The Gatesworth provides exceptional retirement living options to encourage an active lifestyle. Pictured on the cover: Executive director Carrie Montrey (Right) with residents Celia and Dr. Salvatore Sutera. For more information, call 314.993.0111 or visit thegatesworth.com.
Cover courtesy of The Gatesworth
Pictured at the top: Celia and Dr. Salvatore Sutera
Photo courtesy of The Gatesworth
