Centenarian Resident On the Go at Friendship Village of Schaumburg
Rather than simply experiencing her triple digit age, Kathryn Marwitz is enthusiastically embracing it and enjoying just about every minute. The 104 year old may be the oldest resident of Friendship Village but her energy, sense of humor and charisma belie her advanced years. "I call her busy body," said Areta Rodgers, activity manager of Willows Assisted Living at Friendship Village. "Not that she's nosey. She's just busy. Whenever I see her she's on the go."
Kathryn has lived at Friendship Village for twenty years. Until this summer, she was in a two bedroom independent living apartment. After a serious fall and extensive rehab, she transferred to Willows Assisted Living where she has assistance if she needs it. The fact is however, that she's not often around her apartment. "I get out everyday. I know many people and like to keep in contact. There's not enough hours in the day," she said. "I think one of the key things in your life is keeping busy and interested. If you lose interest, there's nothing left."
During daytime hours, Kathryn is visiting with friends and participating in programs. She's a fashionista who loves to shop and be pampered. "Kathryn's always dressed to the nines," said Areta.
"I recently met with a cosmetician who did a makeover. A gal needs something besides medicine you know!" Kathryn finds time in her busy schedule for weekly manicures.
In the evening, Kathryn is a bit of a night owl, staying up late doing puzzles and reading,
Kathryn said that she finds herself surprised at her own longevity. "I'm just an ordinary person doing the best I can. I never thought I'd live to be this age. I don't know why I have. My motto has always been to do everything with integrity. You should always give 100%," she said adding that Friendship Village is a wonderful home. "I've made a lot of friends and have a feeling of security. I know I'll always be well taken care of."
Areta said that Kathryn "always does everything with a positive attitude. "When you see her, her spirit just carries her in the most positive way. You've got to smile when you see her. When you visit with Kathryn you know you're going to have a good laugh."
Friendship Senior Options is the not-for-profit organization that sponsors two of the Chicago area's leading Continuing Care Retirement Communities: Friendship Village of Schaumburg and GreenFields of Geneva. We are at the forefront of developing innovative solutions to satisfy the critical needs of the senior living marketplace. Friendship Senior Options provides a range of services for seniors in Chicago including independent living assisted living, skilled care, rehabilitation therapy, home services and memory support. For more information, visit www.FriendshipSeniorOptions.org or call 847-884-5300.