Testimonial: “It is more than a community — it is a family.”
When our parents, Larry and Mary Ann, were ready to retire and move closer to family, we explored continuing care retirement communities across Florida. After visiting Gulf Coast Village, they knew immediately it was home — so much so that they didn’t feel the need to tour anywhere else.
Larry and Mary Ann lived happily in Independent Living for six years, from 2019 to 2025. During that time, they fully embraced the vibrant lifestyle and meaningful friendships that made Gulf Coast Village so special. From the very beginning, the team made the transition seamless. Staff helped with paperwork, movers, and even arranged a guest apartment so we could prepare their home before they arrived.
Once settled, they quickly built a routine they loved — evening walks by the pond, time at the gym, line dancing, movie nights, and friendships that brought them joy. Those six years were filled with independence, activity, and peace of mind, knowing support was available if ever needed.
As time passed, Larry’s health unexpectedly declined and he could no longer be the full-time support and caregiver for his wife, who was living with dementia. It quickly became clear that both would need a higher level of care. During this difficult transition, Gulf Coast Village truly showed us the depth of its commitment.
Staff responded quickly, compassionately, and with remarkable coordination. Within days, they helped guide us through difficult decisions, arranging additional support and care transitions to ensure Larry and Mary Ann were never alone or unsupported. Every step was handled with dignity, kindness, and genuine concern — not because it was required, but because the people there truly cared.
Larry spent his final days surrounded by attentive caregivers, comfort, and family. After his passing, the compassion continued — from heartfelt condolences to thoughtful gestures that reminded us Larry was known and loved, not just another resident.
Mary Ann’s transition into memory care was met with patience, creativity, and tenderness. Staff took the time to learn what brought her comfort — favorite foods, familiar activities, simple joys — and helped her find moments of happiness again. Today, she is beginning to settle in, participate, and even tell others, “This is a nice place.”
Through one of the most difficult seasons of our lives, Gulf Coast Village’s Life Plan Program and extraordinary staff made all the difference. Their flexibility, responsiveness, and heartfelt care allowed our family to focus on what mattered most — being together.
We are deeply grateful that Larry and Mary Ann chose Gulf Coast Village.
It is more than a community — it is a family.
— Keith and Susan Puls
