My husband , Willi, and I had been comfortably living in a villa in a golf course community in SW Florida….he in early nineties, I , early eighties and our 2 year old poodle. We had no thoughts of living elsewhere until I saw, while driving around in our neighborhood, a senior facility under construction with an interesting name …..the Desoto Beach Club. Knowing we were nowhere near a beach, I just had to drive in to see the alleged beach. I saw lots of trees, wetlands, early construction…no beach. Now really curious I entered the construction trailer to check out “what’s going on.”
“Checking out” the blueprints of this 3 story, 114 apartments building, I noticed a 2 bedroom, 2 bath , first floor, in the rear apartment …next to the pool and gardens…and they allowed dogs.Well it did not take long to convince my husband that the time was NOW to make the move to another style of living. It was June, 2005, a good time to sell, a good time to move. ….and we did.
My husband truly enjoyed the 21/2 years we had lived here. Since his death I realize it was one of the best decisions we had made. With the conveniences of services, food, companionship, available for me, I was/am able to continue my community activities while enjoying the comforts of home.
If I were to advise others it would be to think ahead, plan ahead, accept change positively. [Please leave a comment here.]
ElderChicks 
Looking at life at the moment and then planning for the next step is most important. A senior environment provides for all one’s needs… safety, interaction and stimulation……
What a great move and it was definitely the right time and right place. Any place that loves dogs has to be a great place!