Going Native at Shell Point
Retirement community residents embrace the outdoors— on and in the water
A fter an exciting career in Washington, D.C., Liz Schilling knew exactly what she wanted to do when she retired to Florida: “I wanted to be outside!” she explains. She’s just one of the more than 2,400 people who enjoy the natural environment that Fort Myers-based Shell Point Retirement Community has to offer. “I like to stay busy and Shell Point offers so much to do,” she adds.
Liz and her husband, Terry, looked for a retirement community where they could continue their outdoor lifestyle— on and in the water. She’s very active in croquet and water exercise groups, and loves kayaking, boating and exploring surrounding wildlife areas. “Shell Point is such a beautiful community, spread out over 700 acres for us to enjoy. We absolutely love it!”
The same is true for Harold Roth and Wilma Sanders. Both retired teachers, this couple always believed they would spend
“Shell Point is such a beautiful community, spread out over 700 acres for us to enjoy. We absolutely love it!” —Liz and Terry Schilling
their retirement years living on the beach. After spending 15 years as snowbirds on Marco Island, they moved to Shell Point in 2018.
Describing themselves as beach lovers, the couple enjoy the views of the Caloosahatchee River on their daily 2-mile walks around the island, followed by a fitness class or two. They’ve been prioritizing their health now that they’re at Shell Point— and make sure to take advantage of Wellness Connection and group exercise classes.
In less than a year, it’s fair to say that Roth and Sanders have transitioned well to their new Shell Point lifestyle. They jump right into the daily activities and programs that are offered to keep residents fit, healthy, entertained, engaged and busy. Roth and Sanders are happy to be doing everything that interests them.
The couple take about 45 minutes each week to prepare their calendar. They review the Weekly Reminder and Shell Point Life magazine and watch “Shell Point Today,” the daily half-hour program on Shell Point Television, to become informed about what’s going on.
They make sure to write down everything that they want to do or participate in, so not to miss out on anything. The couple also take Academy classes such as tai chi, attend Great Decisions and Current Events group meetings, enjoy lunch on the Suzy Q— and are becoming interested in the Green Team events and volunteering.
Immersion in Shell Point’s culture—and making the most out of the opportunities available—will allow residents to experience a lifestyle like no other.
“Being on the water and having the gardens nearby really impressed me. I can fish right outside my door!” Roth says. He’s part of the newly formed fishing club and also participates in Model Yacht Club sailing, which is very new to him. Roth even bought his first model boat, which he sails two days a week, along with maintaining his garden.
When the couple are not busy with programs or events, they love taking their guests for golf cart tours of the community. In conversing with Roth and Sanders, you’re sure to feel their joy and excitement. As they can tell you, immersion in Shell Point’s culture—and making the most out of the opportunities available—will allow residents to experience a lifestyle like no other.
Roth and Sanders haven’t wasted any time getting engaged in wellness programs, volunteer opportunities and social activities. Their enjoyment of life at Shell Point shines through in all they do. “I feel like we stepped into a pot of gold,” notes Sanders. “I am the happiest I’ve ever been!” adds Roth.