When legendary actor, Henry Winkler recently spoke to a group of about 200 seniors at Crestavilla, a Kisco Signature senior living community in Laguna Niguel, he urged them to be open to new experiences every day.
“There is no right time,” Winkler, of “Happy Days” and “Barry” fame, told the group of residents and local community members. “You’ve talked yourself out of doing something, you’ve said you can’t do it because you’re too busy, it’s not the right time, you’ve passed it. I’m saying to you, all you have to do is put one foot in front of the other and try.”
Winkler’s inspirational message resonated with the crowd, which was gathered to listen to him as part of Crestavilla’s new Red Carpet Speaker Series, which brings celebrities, actors and authors to the picturesque community to share their stories. The series is one of the many ways in which Crestavilla seeks to uplift its residents through programming that engages the mind, body and soul.
“We consider ourselves a true luxury senior living community where we take a holistic approach to aging,” Crestavilla’s General Manager Michael Osterbauer told the audience as he introduced Winkler. “We empower our residents to pursue what they love most while being surrounded by culture, art and creativity in the most beautiful setting and environment. .. We have the ability to curate the community’s program and activities specific to our residents’ wishes and likes. Whether pursuing current interests or nurturing new passions, our team is committed to offering our residents intellectual, cultural and wellness experiences.”
After Winkler spoke, potential future residents were invited to tour Crestavilla to see for themselves the ways in which like-minded seniors can connect with one another and engage their full potential during their retirement years.
“We came to see Mr. Winkler, and he was great,” said Connie of Dana Point. “I think it’s wonderful that Crestavilla is hosting these events. It’s a lot of fun.”
Her friend, Frieda, agreed. “Crestavilla is doing a wonderful job. We can’t wait to check out the rest of the community.”
Osterbauer says the message Winkler delivered about being open to new experiences falls right in line with Kisco’s principles, values and beliefs – what’s important to them.
“He was fantastic, and the message he brought to Crestavilla was incredible: You’re never too old to reinvent yourself. When he walked us through his life, it was unbelievable how many times he reinvented himself.”
Winkler was the second speaker in the fledgling series, following Frances Mayes, author of “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Osterbauer says the series has been well-attended so far, and they plan to continue hosting.
“We had 200 participants today, so it’s only going to grow,” he says. “I’m so proud of our team. And our residents love having people here, hosting in their home. It’s just an incredible feeling.”